Are you looking to install a new window in your basement or replace an existing one? We know that your basement is a place where you like to hang out with family members and friends. We also know that natural light is an important part of your basement. Therefore, we have invested in the latest advances in window technology to ensure that we can provide you with the best product possible. This is only one of the many reasons why so many people have been trusting us with all of their window installation and replacement needs in the local area!

Are you looking to hire a contractor with knowledge regarding the rules and regulations of basements windows? Call Advanced Window Products today!

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Topics we will discuss on this page:

Why Replace Your Basement Windows?

If your basement windows have deteriorated to the point that they are now difficult to open and close, or if they are drafty and leaky, it’s probably time for basement window replacement. Old basement windows can become rotted or rusted. Worn-out old basement windows can have a big negative impact on energy efficiency, comfort, convenience, and the appearance of your home.

Advanced Window Products offers a wide selection of basement window options to meet homeowners’ needs for basement living and storage spaces, egresses, and aesthetic preferences. Here’s some information to help you make sure all your functional, aesthetic, and budgetary needs are met when purchasing and installing basement windows.

Old Basement Window Problems

In previous construction eras, home builders focused much more on the overall quality of windows on the main floors than on basement windows. Very often, low-grade steel or cheap wood framing was used for basements. Consequently, basic basement windows in many older homes have deficiencies that lead to problems such as these, among others:
  • Low energy efficiency due to cold and hot air leaks
  • Water leaks around window frames promoting damage and mold growth
  • Significant heat loss through single-pane glass
  • Rusted steel window frames that are hard to open or close
  • Rotted and peeling wood window frames
  • Intensive maintenance to keep steel or wood frames presentable and functioning (scraping, sanding, painting, reglazing, etc.)

Choose from the Numerous Styles of Basement Windows

One of the biggest reasons why numerous individuals and families in the local area have trusted us to help them with their basement window repair and installation needs is that we offer plenty of options when it comes to windows. Some of our most popular options include:
  • Sliding Basement Windows: We offer sliding windows that are large and easy to use
  • Single Hung Windows and Double Hung Windows: Our single and double-hung windows are some of the most popular on the market
  • Picture Windows: Our picture windows will provide everyone in the basement with a clear view of the surroundings
  • Hopper Windows: If you are looking to save money on your basement windows, our hopper windows are the way to go
  • Glass Block Windows: Glass block windows are always a popular option when it comes to the basement
These are just a few of the numerous options that we provide when it comes to basement windows. We can provide you with custom basement windows that will meet your needs.

The Latest in Window Technology for Basement Windows

Another reason why so many people trust us to help them with their basement windows is that we provide the latest options in basement window technology. Some of the highlights include:
  • Advanced Insulation: We offer windows that have advanced insulation technology. This means that you can keep your heat and air conditioning inside of your house instead of leaking it to the outside. By trapping heat and air conditioning inside, your HVAC unit will not have to work as hard, reducing your utility bills.
  • UV Reflection Technology: If you would like a resistant UV glaze on your windows, we can make this happen as well. If you have furniture in your basement, you need to protect it from fading. That is where our unique UV resistant glaze can be helpful.
  • Security and Privacy: We design all of our windows with your security and privacy in mind. Our windows are incredibly strong and durable. They will stand up to routine wear and tear. If you would like to tint or frost your windows for added privacy, we can make this happen.

Measuring a Basement Window- Advanced Window Products

Basement Window Replacement Costs

Some variables must be factored into the total cost of any type of window replacement. Plus, basement windows have their special considerations. There are great cost-saving opportunities, but it’s important to be clear on all the cost factors to make informed choices:

Window Material: One important opportunity you have when selecting replacement windows for basement installation is your choice of window frame material. Today’s most popular window frame options are vinyl, wood, and aluminum. Vinyl windows have proven to be more energy-efficient and durable, and even more affordable than wood or aluminum alternatives. Aluminum frames are less energy-efficient and wood is less durable.

Retrofit or Full-Frame Replacement: Replacing the complete window frame for a basement window requires a nail fin design (flange around the window for securing to the original framing). This adds about 10% to 15%to the cost of simply retrofitting a replacement window into the existing frame.

Window Type: The purposes of your replacement windows, for your basement or any other interior space, can impact the price. Popular window styles to suit typical needs for living spaces include:

 

  • Single-hung
  • Bay window
  • Double Sliding
  • Double-hung
  • Picture window
  • Tilt & Turn
  • Case & Awning
  • Single Sliding
  • Custom shaped

 

Basement Egress: Some municipalities, HOAs, and other authorities over building safety require at least one point of basement egress. An egress in a home is an additional route for escape in the event of an emergency. Especially if you have a bedroom in the basement, an egress window is likely to be required, unless you have a walk-out exit. Egress windows often cost more.

Glass Type: Energy-efficient glass types help reduce energy bills. Low-E glass, double-pane or triple-pane krypton- or argon-filled glass are premium choices for energy efficiency. Tinted glass helps reduce damaging UV rays. For some rooms, impact-resistant glass is preferable based on the purpose of the space, and tempered glass or safety glass might be a legal requirement in certain cases.

Window Size: The larger the window, the more material, labor, inventory storage space, handling cost, and other costs involved. Naturally, larger windows can be expected to cost more than smaller windows of the same style.

Age of House: Many homeowners with houses that are 70 years old or older should expect significantly higher price estimates for basement window replacement. Many older homes present special challenges for window manufacturers and installers. For example:

  • Repairs are needed around the window opening due to rotting or damage
  • Frame removal for non-standard-sized window openings
  • Non-standard window sizes that require custom replacement windows
  • The requirement to match a historical home’s architecture
  • Removal of counterweights
  • The requirement to upgrade to meet modern building codes
  • Empty gaps requiring added insulation

Labor Costs: Installation costs can vary widely, depending on window sizes and locations, and on the degree of expertise necessary to install custom basement windows properly. If additional insulation or waterproofing is required, or if structural repairs are needed, these tasks will increase the installation cost. The location of windows can increase the difficulty of installation, which can raise the cost, and cleanup and debris disposal costs add to the total cost of basement window replacement.

Additional Cost Considerations While Installing a Replacement Basement Window

The most common cost factors in window replacements are window type, size, frame material, and energy efficiency. But, there are potential additional costs to keep in mind too:

Urban vs. Rural Costs: Your window installation cost can be higher if you live in an urban location where the cost of living and labor costs are generally higher than in a rural area where costs are lower.

Structural Repair Needs: If your existing basement windows are non-standard sizes, modification of the opening can add significantly to the installation cost. Or, if there is a need to remove and repair or replace rotted or damaged areas of wood frames, reconstruction can also raise the cost. Often, the total install cost can change, because the installation cost estimator cannot determine everything that needs to be done until the existing windows are removed and the installers can see what needs to be repaired or replaced.

Insulation and Weatherproofing: Window installation can often require adding more insulation in the gaps between the edges around the new window and the raw opening. Additional weatherproofing is also frequently necessary. The cost of this work and materials are added to the installation price.

Installation Location: Whether you live in a cold or hot climate, energy-efficient basement windows can significantly reduce your electricity bills, improve comfort, and better protect your home. But location can increase your window costs, if state or local codes require specific frame types and/or glass types for window replacements in your area.

Requirements for Basement Window Installation

Anyone who wants to have a basement in their home needs to make sure it meets fire code regulations. One of these regulations is to have a legal egress window. This window is in place to allow people in and out of the basement in the event of a fire. An egress window must meet certain requirements, including:

  • The bottom of the window must be within 44 inches of the floor. This is important for ensuring that everyone can reach the window if necessary to escape.
  • The opening of the window should be at least 20 inches in width by 24 inches in height. The larger the opening, the easier it will be for people to fit through if they need to escape.

Bedroom Basement Windows

When homeowners are looking to sell their house, it is important to make sure that the number of bedrooms in the home is accurate. This is because the more bedrooms a home has, the more value the house carries. For those with a basement, it is important for everyone to understand that the rules and regulations surrounding what can and cannot be considered a bedroom are different in the basement than in other areas of the home. In particular, a basement bedroom requires a larger window than other bedrooms in the home.

Importance of Bedroom Basement Windows

While bedrooms require windows simply for the ability to see outside, these become even more important in a basement for escape purposes. These windows are referred to as egress windows. While not all basements are going to require a window, they will certainly require a window in order to be considered a legal bedroom. In the event of a fire, the door to the basement could be blocked by the flames. Because the basement is underground, another door might not be possible. This makes the egress window important for safety purposes.

Size Requirements for Basement Windows in a Bedroom 

While an egress window meets fire code regulations, it is not enough to allow the classification of a basement as a bedroom. In order to classify a basement as an extra bedroom, there are several additional requirements that must be met.

  • The opening of the window itself will need to be at least 5.7 square feet. Most people will elect to go with a window of six square feet to be safe.
  • The window should be at least 36 inches wide.
  • The window well should be no more than 44 inches off of the floor.

Anyone looking to sell their home should make sure that they maximize the value of their home by ensuring that their basement meets the requirements of a legal bedroom.

Fire Code Regulations for Basement Window Installations

Egress windows are important because they help basements meet the fire codes regulations. These regulations are put in place for safety purposes. Over time, house fires have been studied extensively by researchers. Their outcomes have been analyzed from a number of different directions. Research has determined that certain regulations in the fire codes today can help minimize the chance of injury or death in the event of a fire. One of these regulations surrounds the idea of an egress window. Having an egress window can allow people trapped inside to escape while also allowing firefighters from outside into the building to rescue residents and fight the fire. Among the fire code regulations requiring an egress window are regulations governing where sprinklers are required, where carbon monoxide alarms are required, and the rules surrounding access to doors and staircases.

For Replacement Basement Window Installation Choose Advanced Window Products, Utah

For those who are looking to place their home on the market, it is important to hire a contractor with knowledge regarding the rules and regulations of basements windows. Advanced Window Products in Utah has the expertise and experience necessary to install a window that both meets the fire code regulations and will allow the basement to be classified as an extra room.

Call Advanced Window Products, Salt Lake City, UT, at (801) 505-9622, or contact us online for more details or to schedule an in-home consultation and estimate for basement window replacements.

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