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Basement Window installation

6K views 6 replies 5 participants last post by  jomama45 
#1 ·
Quick question about installing basement window.
I currently have a metal frame window in my basement.
The frame is embedded right into the concrete.
The opening is about 32 x 17 with about 2-2.5inch concrete slope under it.
I was thinking I can just remove the window and knock out the slope to give me a pretty square 32 x 19.5 opening.
The confusion for me comes when I go to purchase the actual window. IS IT NECESSARY to build a 1x frame to set the window in or can I just tapcon it right into the block.
They have at home depot/lowes 32x19 windows so the would fit right into that opening without a frame. Is this method of installing ok?
Thanks
Chris
 
#4 ·
thanks for the responses. If you were to do the install at your home would you do it this way or would you go ahead and order the smaller window and frame it itn.
Also, if placing it right on the concrete are there any issues that I should be prepared for.
Thanks
 
#6 ·
"Also, if placing it right on the concrete are there any issues that I should be prepared for." ----- This would be my second choice.
You should have a thermal break from window/concrete. All the heat inside on the window will transmit to the concrete unless you use foam or at least some sticky window wrap between the two. Even with p.t., you need a thermal break, last choice caulking underneath the p.t.
Be safe, Gary
 
#7 ·
My opinion is that you should go with a basement intended for a foundation & install it completly with mortar at the bottom & sides, caulk at the top, if it's against non-concrete.

This allows for 0 maintanence for the life of the window, other than the caulk on top.

Installing wood (even treated) with a no-maintanence window is silly IMO. It will never see the intended life of the window (or foundation for that matter) & will require much more caluking maintanence thru time.

Hold the window towards the exterior to get sufficient angle on the exterior wash on the window.
 
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