Basement windows play a vital role in enhancing the functionality, beauty and safety of your basement space. Whether you are renovating your basement into an additional multi-functional living area, a home office or just a storage area, it is essential to know about basement windows.
What are basement windows?
Basement windows are windows installed in the basement walls. They are usually installed in the upper part, so that the space above the ground can be maximized for lighting and ventilation while ensuring safety. Some basements may have light wells, and windows are installed on the side or top of the light wells to reflect and guide more light into the basement.
What to look out for when buying basement windows
Consider the functional use of the basement:
Living space
If the basement is used as a living space such as a bedroom or living room, then the insulation, sound insulation and lighting performance of the windows are very important. Wood or high-quality uPVC windows are good choices. Wood windows have good thermal insulation and a natural and beautiful appearance, which can create a warm living atmosphere; uPVC windows also have good thermal insulation performance and are relatively affordable. They can effectively block external noise while ensuring sufficient natural light entering the room.
For living spaces, the way windows are opened is also important. Double-hung windows or casement windows can provide good ventilation and help keep the indoor air fresh. Double-hung windows are also easy to clean, which is a factor to consider for lower basements.
Storage space
When the basement is mainly used for storage, the focus can be on security and moisture resistance. Aluminum alloy windows have higher strength and can provide better anti-theft performance. At the same time, if these windows are properly treated with moisture-proofing, such as well-sealed window frames and glass, they can effectively prevent external moisture from entering and protect stored items from moisture damage.
You can choose top-hung basement windows or fixed windows. Top-hung windows are safer while ensuring a certain amount of ventilation, while fixed windows can be completely sealed, which is more conducive to storing some moisture-sensitive items.
Workspace (such as home office)
For the basement as a home office, lighting and view are important factors to consider. Large-sized casement windows or floor-to-ceiling basement windows can provide a wider view, reduce the sense of oppression in the basement, and let in plenty of natural light, which is conducive to improving work efficiency. When choosing the type of window, consider windows with low-emissivity (Low-E) glass, which effectively blocks UV rays and reduces fading and damage to indoor furniture and equipment while still allowing good daylight.
There are several important pieces of information you can focus on for basement windows before ordering:
- Material and quality: uPVC is a popular material for basement windows because it is easy to clean, durable, and weather-resistant. When purchasing, make sure the plastic is high-quality so that the window can withstand the stress of the weather.
- Insulation: Basement windows should be well insulated to prevent heat loss and save energy costs. Make sure the windows have a low U-value.
- Glazing: Good glazing can provide additional insulation and soundproofing. Choose insulated glass with at least two panes of glass.
- Fittings: Fittings should be sturdy and operate smoothly to ensure that the window opens and closes comfortably. Also make sure you have good anti-theft security measures.
- Size and opening mechanism: The size of the window should be adjusted according to the size of the basement and the amount of daylight you want. Choose an opening mechanism that is comfortable to use and allows you to get enough air.
- Design: Basement windows come in different colors and designs. Choose a window that will match the exterior of your home in harmony.
Which window material is best for your basement?
uPVC windows have many positive material properties. They have good thermal insulation properties, are easy to clean, are durable and, thanks to a high-quality film coating, are available in a wide range of colours and wood finishes. This is why uPVC windows are particularly commonly used in inhabited basements. For added security against theft, you can also secure them with safety glass, security fittings, lockable window handles and window grilles.
Aluminium windows have an advantage over uPVC basement windows. Aluminium windows are extremely stable, strong, durable, low-maintenance and burglar-proof. Whether the investment in your basement is worth it depends on whether you use it as a purely utility or living space. Fortunately, Grandsea uses a multi-chamber aluminium profile to increase the thermal insulation properties of its window frames. Thanks to this innovative manufacturing process, aluminium basement windows are not inferior to other materials in terms of energy efficiency. You can also buy aluminum clad wood windows from window and door manufacturers, where the insulation properties are also significantly improved by combining stable aluminium with wood.
Basement Window Costs
The cost of purchasing basement windows mainly involves the purchase and installation costs, and of course, the cost of removing the windows if you are replacing old windows.
Let’s talk about the purchase cost of the windows themselves
Window types: uPVC basement windows are usually the most affordable option, ranging from $100 to $300 per window, depending on size and features. Aluminum windows cost between $200 and $500 and are durable. Wooden windows are more expensive, usually $300 to $800 or more, but have a warm and natural appearance.
The cost of installing basement windows: If you hire a professional, installation costs may increase by $100 to $300 per window. DIY installation can save you money, but requires the right tools and skills. Before deciding, you can compare the installation materials and costs provided by several local installers.
Additional costs: Don’t forget insulation, sealants, and decorative materials. Depending on the quality and quantity, these costs can add $50 to $150 per window. This portion of the cost may be double-counted by the window and door installation company, so be careful to differentiate!
Properly measure the basement window
The size of the basement window is usually slightly different from the size of other windows. Before buying new windows, you should measure the old windows correctly. This is especially true for windows in old buildings. We recommend that you measure each window individually because their sizes are often different. Since each manufacturer has so-called standard sizes that are different from other door and window companies, standard-sized windows may not fit the existing window openings in your home. For special cases like this, you can order custom basement windows from us. As a door and window manufacturer with outstanding customization capabilities, Grandsea provides professional measurement and installation advice and has satisfied many homeowners with high-quality door and window products.
How to install a basement window
Prepare the opening: Clear any debris, old mortar or insulation in the opening. Check for level and verticality and adjust if necessary. You may need to use shims to correct any unevenness.
Install the window: For uPVC basement windows, slide it into the opening. Secure it in place with screws (usually provided with the window). Make sure the window is centered and level. For metal or wooden windows, the process is similar, but additional sealing steps may be required. Apply waterproof sealant around the window, both inside and outside. This prevents water from seeping in, which is a common problem in basements.
Insulation and Finishing: After installation, fill any gaps around the window with insulation. Spray foam insulation works well because it expands to fill small cavities.
Finally, cover the window frame with drywall or moldings, depending on your aesthetic preferences.
In conclusion, the key for preventing damage from water and increasing energy efficiency is by installing basement windows.
Some Tips for Decorating Basement Windows
Every person wants to have a unique window, regardless of whether it’s a patio or a basement windows.
Decorate with blinds or curtains.Cellular shades are also great for insulation, helping to keep your basement warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Roman shades add a touch of elegance and can be customized to fit your decor. If you’re going for a rustic look, consider burlap curtains.
Decorate Window Frames: Installing window frames indoors or outdoors can add charm. Plant them with seasonal flowers or succulents. This not only beautifies the window, but also provides a little bit of nature for those in your basement. If you find maintenance a hassle, consider artificial plants.
Accent Lighting: Place small LED lights around window frames, both inside and outside. This creates a warm, inviting glow, especially at night. It can make a basement feel cozier and less dungeon-like. You can also use string lights for a fancier effect.
