How to Install Replacement Vinyl Windows in a Basement
Basement windows are often old and inefficient, causing a home to lose heating and cooling. Also, they can be difficult to open and shut since most of them use an inefficient crank. Installing new vinyl windows in your basement is a great way to make your home more attractive and energy efficient.
Items you’ll need:
- Vinyl window and hardware
- Screwdriver
- Hammer
- Box cutter
- Shims
- Caulking
- Remove the old basement window. This can be done by taking a box cutter and cutting the caulk all the way around the window. Then, use a flathead screwdriver to pry the window out from the casing. Take your time and use leverage to remove it; you do not want to damage the case in the process. Once the window is free of the case, clean the entire case. Any bits of caulk or nails should be completely removed to make window installation easier.
- Take the hardware that came with the window and install it in the casing as necessary. You will likely need a hammer or screwdriver to get the hardware in place.
- Place shims in the window case. This will give the new vinyl window a base to sit on before you seal it. Gently place the window in the case on top of the shims. Once you do this, seal all the way around the window using your caulking. Once the caulk has dried, remove the shims and add caulk where they were previously. Your new vinyl window will now be weatherproofed and ready for use.