[gizzygone]

I'm starting to look at options for the basement Windows I have. Right now they're metal cased, single pane windows poured into the concrete foundation.

I'm looking for something a bit nicer/more functional/energy efficient.

My question is: does the metal frame need to go? Can I grind it down, paint it well, and screw in a new vinyl window?

Or do I need to go to town and remove the metal frame and build a new pressure treated sill?

Does the metal frame provide any structure to the home?

 

[cmorales]

Can you upload the image of window in your basement?

 

[gizzygone]

Let's see if this works:

The frame is actually fully encased in concrete, even at the top.... So I think there isn't a way to remove it really...

 

[Windows on Wash]

Metal frame can go and isn't structural.

Measure block to block, deduct 1.75" off the width for 3/4" PVC buck frames on both sides and 1/4" shim space.

You can put the same buck frames on the top and bottom if you like but it isn't needed if you don't.

 

[oh'mike]

I don't know your location, but there are standard vinyl window replacements for many of those steel buck openings----I have found them at Menards---rather cheaply priced,also.

 

[Windows on Wash]

Jumping the frame is an option as well like oh'mike references.

 

[jomama45]

Metal frame can go and isn't structural.

Measure block to block, deduct 1.75" off the width for 3/4" PVC buck frames on both sides and 1/4" shim space.

You can put the same buck frames on the top and bottom if you like but it isn't needed if you don't.

If that's like the metal frames we always used, it's ribbed and cast into the concrete. They're extremely strong, and even when you get rid of the frame, you still need to get rid of the concrete ribs. It can become quite a job. I second what Oh-mike said, look around for replacments that slide into the existing buck.

 

[gizzygone]

Keeping the frame seems much easier. I'll wire-wheel the rust off and paint it with a good epoxy.

I didn't snap an outside picture, but there is a steel brace going straight down the middle on the exterior. Think I'd be okay just grinding that out? Or do I need it to keep the frame from bowing and damaging the insert window?

 

[cleveman]

No one knows your location.

I've removed and replaced a lot of these.

The ones I'm familiar with have about a 4" wide frame and are in 8" concrete walls. They are typically two block high and two block wide.

I get under them with a long bar and pry the frame up until the sides pull in. Then you can move to the sides and pry them until the top pulls in.

The trick is to get a long bar, otherwise you can waste your time with a grinder and make a lot of dust.

Clean up the opening a bit (usually there is a sill of mortar built up) and install your vinyl replacement. I just cut off the nailing flange with a utility knife.

 

[gizzygone]

No one knows your location.

I've removed and replaced a lot of these.

The ones I'm familiar with have about a 4" wide frame and are in 8" concrete walls. They are typically two block high and two block wide.

I get under them with a long bar and pry the frame up until the sides pull in. Then you can move to the sides and pry them until the top pulls in.

The trick is to get a long bar, otherwise you can waste your time with a grinder and make a lot of dust.

Clean up the opening a bit (usually there is a sill of mortar built up) and install your vinyl replacement. I just cut off the nailing flange with a utility knife.

We're in Massachusetts. My main concern with removing the frame at this point is the layer of concrete poured above the frame would have to be chiseled out (it's only about 2inches from the top of the metal frame to the top of the concrete poured atop).

Is there any concern in keeping the steel? I think it'll proove easier aside from having to drill thru steel and concrete to support the window.

 

[cleveman]

Are you sure it is concrete and not just mortar? The mortar comes out just fine with a chisel or just a hammer alone.

Put MA in your profile and no one will have to ask in the future.

Another aspect of keeping the steel is that it serves as a super highway for the cold to pass into your house. I'm assuming your replacements will be vinyl.

 

[gizzygone]

Are you sure it is concrete and not just mortar? The mortar comes out just fine with a chisel or just a hammer alone.

Put MA in your profile and no one will have to ask in the future.

Another aspect of keeping the steel is that it serves as a super highway for the cold to pass into your house. I'm assuming your replacements will be vinyl.

I'd assume is concrete: the whole foundation is a poured concrete foundation: unless they went back and tried filling the void with mortar?

 

[cleveman]

If the window jack was poured in place it may be difficult to remove the concrete in a clean way.

You may try removing one jack. If it is poured in place, you may have luck in scoring it down to the rough opening with a grinder or masonry bit in a circ saw.

You may check other homes in your area as well to see how they have dealt with their windows.

If you see some old timer in your neighborhood with the same vintage home, ask him about it. This may sound stupid, but he may be able to tell you all about your windows.

Good luck.