It happens so that we pay great attention to all the windows in the house but the basement one. At times it is possible to forget about having one. However, a poor-quality and worn-out window can inflict unpleasant issues, so it is better to deal with the matter the minute anything goes south.
While the vinyl windows replacement cost differs from area to area and vendor to vendor, the noticeable signs that you will use the service soon remain the same. If you see that:
- The basement window is challenging to open and then close
- There is a considerable draft felt
- In-between the window panes, there is usually some condensate
- The frame looks old and rotting
The chances are that you will need to learn how to replace or vinyl basement restore windows fast.
Steps to Take When Replacing the Old Basement Window
Step One – Removal
Even if you hire a team of professionals to do all the jobs for you, the chances are that you will be willing to know the basics to see when the team is doing anything wrong. Old window removal is the first logical step to take. There is a proper order that needs to be executed. The windows Oakville sash is to go first. It is advised to cut the bottom and the top of the sash, pry them to form an X shape, and remove the sash altogether. It is best if the order is preserved.
Step Two – Preparation
You should proceed with the opening preparation when all the sash is gone. You wish your newly installed window serves you long and looks neat and appealing. That is why cleaning out all the concrete from the hollow sash stops.
The next thing to do would be to coat the opening with a siloxane masonry sealer so that the left concrete does not absorb any more sealant. You should leave the opening dry out before introducing the sill.
Step Three – Bucks
After all the preps are done, it is time to figure out if some bucks are needed. At times they are not. It depends upon the basement window type. The gap on either side should be measured when you place the new window in the center. Sometimes the opening is a little out square, meaning that bucks should be tapered. When you cut the bucks, you should not forget that there should also be room left for sealant. You can fasten the window to the mudsill if there is no need for bucks.
Step Four – Stops and Sealing
The pre-final step is to seal your window against the stops. Some use cedar for stops, but that depends upon the handyman installing the basement window. The stops are usually fastened to the side bucks and the mudsill.
When you put some sealant on the stops’ inside faces, you can place the window itself into the opening. If everything fits well, you can start screwing the sides of the windows in the side bucks. Ensure that the screws you use are long enough to get deep into the wood, but they are not supposed to reach the concrete part. Lastly, seal all four inner corners of the window. Sealing along the window’s outer side is out of the question.
To sum it all up, it is safe to say that after you learn how to replacement vinyl basement windows, you may want to do it on your own. The truth is that as long as you have at least some experience in the area. However, if you can hardly hammer a nail in – it is best to leave it to professionals.