Most homeowners do not have basement window repair or replacement high on their to-do lists. If opening and closing your windows is becoming difficult, you should take a closer look before significant repairs are necessary. This is incredibly important if you are finishing your basement into extra living space. The time to resolve this problem is before work begins in the basement. The question is whether to replace or repair the windows. Here are several window facts to help you get started:
Leaks
Older homes usually have wood or steel basement windows. These are prone to wood rot or rusting steel. If the window frame is compromised, it could lead to water leakage if a poor drainage situation exists. If you have an unfinished basement, you may not have noticed minor leaks.
These problems are magnified for a basement finished into a living space. You may not pass an inspection if the windows are not up to code. Leaks should be repaired as soon s possible, whether your basement is original or finished. Your utility bills may be impacted negatively by the leakage. In addition, moisture entering through your basement windows can cause interior damage to your home. Have a professional contractor inspect your windows and recommend either repairing or replacing the faulty windows.
Pest Infestation
A dark and moist basement is just what a variety of insects are looking to call home. Spiders, cockroaches, termites, and others can enter through openings around your windows. Preventing moisture from building up is the best way to stop this from happening. Sealing leaky windows or installing replacements will keep humid air from entering your basement.
Safety
Most municipal building codes now require an egress window or door to be added to a basement that is finished into a living space. This is put in place to provide a means of escape in case of a fire or other emergency. These regulations include the size and placement of the window. Discuss the local code with your contractor before starting a basement project.
Energy Efficiency
Replacing old basement windows with modern insulated windows can have a significant impact on your monthly energy costs. Lately, fluctuating fuel costs make it necessary to save money wherever you can to keep utility expenses as low as possible. Whether your basement is finished or not, new replacement windows can make a significant dent in those costs. Be sure to look for the Energy Star rating to ensure you are getting energy-efficient windows.
Aesthetic Appeal
Most homeowners regularly replace their home’s siding and roof when needed and show damage. This is a necessary project which improves the curb appeal of your home and improves your chances of getting a reasonable price if you are thinking about selling sometime in the future. However, the basement windows are frequently overlooked.
A potential buyer sees a home that looks great with new siding and a recently replaced roof and then spots old damaged basement windows. This could be a deal breaker when selling your home. Whether you are considering selling or not, new energy-efficient basement windows are a significant improvement to your home.
Window Styles
If you have been considering replacing the basement windows but haven’t because of the limited styles available, you will want to explore the varieties being offered today. These are just a few of the many types:
- Double-Hung
- Egress
- Hopper
- Sliding
It can be troublesome to get air circulating in the basement. Double-Hung windows are the most efficient at letting in a summer breeze. A professional contractor can help you pick the style that will work best with your home for improved energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
Mildew and Mold
Old leaky basement windows are a source of moisture entering your home that can cause mold or mildew. Health issues can result in family members suffering from allergies or asthma. Mold can grow behind sheetrock walls or under carpeting. Replacing your old windows before starting a basement renovation can eliminate this condition before it turns into a costly repair or, worse, a health risk. The best solution is to stay on top of any repairs relating to moisture entering your basement.
Noise Reduction
This may not be your primary reason for replacing your basement windows, but it’s worth considering when you purchase windows. Multiple-Pane glass is the best choice for reducing street noise. Please contact Midwest Roofing, Siding, and Windows to discuss replacing basement windows, roofing, or siding. We have been proudly serving customers in the Twin Cities region of Minnesota and the surrounding area for almost 50 years. Our installers have been factory-trained, which allows us to offer the best warranties. Our certified staff will be happy to answer any questions about replacing your basement windows or any of our services. Don’t live with those old leaky windows!