Installation of Larger Basement Windows

6/8/2012 at 8:35:54 AM

Hi Robert,

Some of the window companies are cutting the concrete in basements to install larger windows.

You have to consider a few things:

*You have to make sure there is no electric wires or water pipes at the cutting area.

*Do you need a well dug to whipping tiles with a well wall installed?-this will be done by a water proofing company .

*You will need to make sure your cut is above frosting line in ground or you will have problems with it.

*If its all above ground you need a lintel above the window so the wall will not start to collapse in the centre with the time.

Other wise if you did not find a company to do it keep looking...We do it in the G.T.A. area

Thanks

Harry C.

6/8/2012 at 9:10:05 AM

In some cases a masonry contractor is needed for basement window installs to provide an opening through concrete or block walls. We at Drt Enterprises Ltd. provide such a service. Please forward particulars on this project and an estimate will be given.

6/8/2012 at 9:27:30 AM

You need someone who can cut concrete, then your window company would be able to install it, make sure that you have a lintel above the window before they install the window.

6/8/2012 at 10:05:06 AM

Hi Robert,

If this is a new window in a foundation wall that has no window now, or is an existing window opening that is being made larger, you will require a building permit. A few additional things added to other comments posted to keep in mind: connection of a drain to existing weepers, ensuring proper insulation of the footing (if the bottom of the window well is less than 4' from the footing), think about larger window well to allow for egress in an emergency, possibly requiring a cover over the window well or guard so no one falls into it unexpectedly or snow piling up against the glass in the winter. Also check the locations of any vents coming out the wall in the windows vicinity i.e., fire place vents, furnace exhaust vents and intakes, dryer vents, gas meter on side of house...You don't want any of these near the window, check codes if they are as to what the minimum distances should be to ensure your safety. If the window is in a stair well, it may need a guard over it of some kind if near the stair treads. Watch that the eves trough down spouts and sump pump exit pipe aren't going to direct water toward the new window well. Depending on where the windows are going, and the size of your window well, there would be minimum clearances to your property line that also need to be respected. You will want to ensure locates are completed prior to excavation as well to be sure you don't cut any utility lines. You will need to check to see where you can dispose of the concrete debris in your area too, and check that your contractor will include to dispose of it or you could be left with a pile in your yard.

There's lots to know and consider before a window installation like this. Be sure to do your home work, get a permit and or hire a qualified and insured contractor to get it done correctly. A contractor could charge anywhere from 1,500 - 3,000+ depending on the scope of work per window.

Hope this helps!

6/8/2012 at 10:13:45 AM

...regarding the basement door, if it is a new basement entrance, there are just as many concerns if not more to consider than the windows. If the basement entrance needs a full excavation (8') and poured foundation walls prior to installing door, it can cost $15,000+ and most definitely needs a permit.

6/8/2012 at 11:52:33 AM

Could you post some pictures of your basement? If not, provide further details behind your window suppliers reluctance to handle this job. What are your concerns? What their concerns?

We may be able to help but need further information to provide guidance on this task.

6/8/2012 at 2:26:46 PM

We had this problems before, especially with renovation older houses. But before giving you answer, our specialists have to take a look at you basement. Basicly, labour involves concrete cutting and then installation of windows with all constructon code reguirements. This job is more time consuming and expensive vs regular window replacement.

Thank you.

Marina Reeves, director of Artistic Homes by Pliska.

6/8/2012 at 5:52:59 PM

Hi Robert,

It is possible to install a window in a basement wall but there are some things to consider,

you will need a permit and most likely an engineers drawing, when you cut the hole for the new window the existing framing is most likely not sufficient to transfer the load around the new opening and down to the footings. The last time I did this we excavated around the new door and created a new walk out patio, you will also need to have frost protection as your old foundation will now be exposed to frost. My advice is to contact a General Contractor as there are many aspects of the building trade involved with this particular job.

Good luck with your project.

Steve.