Your On Line Home Improvement Partner

Window Questions:

Enlarging a Basement Window:

Question:

I own a 2 story home with a poured cement foundation. I was wondering if I can add basement egress windows anywhere I like or if I need to consider structural integrity? Could this ruin my foundation or make it weak?

Answer:

Adding windows should not affect your foundation as long as you head and frame off the cuts and leave ample space between. It is always advisable to consult with a qualified contractor or you local building dept. when in doubt concerning structural changes to a foundation. Gordon

Exterior sweating of windows:

Question:

We own a home that is approximately 15 months old, I have noticed in the summer and winter the windows sweat on the exterior not on the interior. Is this be caused by a poor caulking job ?

Answer:

Sounds like poor caulking and weather stripping to me. Unfortunately most installers just squeeze on some caulking and then screw them down and move on. I would get some good 40 year plus caulking and caulk both inside and out, thus making sure that you are cutting down the obvious heat loss as well as moisture damage prevention. Gordon

Egress Windows:

Question:

What are egress windows? I would like to know more about them.

Answer:

Current building codes require egress windows in all bedrooms without a direct exit outside and second stories for all new construction and additions. I believe the minimum egress space is 5.7 sq. feet with a minimum space of 20 inches clear side to side. Most window manufactures’ have windows available that comply with panic type hardware installed. I am currently building a 672 sq. foot addition on my home and just retro fitted a vinyl casement egress in the new bedroom. The good thing about egress windows besides compliance is that in the odd chance that you had a fire everyone will probably safe and sound. Gordon

Need help finding replacement windows:

Question:

We have a home that was built in the 80's. It still has the original double hung vinyl windows with a black frame. We are preparing to sell the house and have two windows with a moisture problem. Unfortunately, we have been unable to find similar windows at the local home improvement stores. We don't want to replace all windows , but want to match. I can’t read the manufacturers tag on any windows due to fading. Any suggestions or ideas?

Answer:

Good Evening, Is the color Bronze or truly Black? I would try www.Google.com and put a search out describing your windows, custom is costly but possible. Most home improvement warehouses are very limited. Specialty manufactures are probably the way to go. Hope this helps and good luck, Gordon

Wood windows r-values:

Question:

What is the energy efficiency of wood window?

 Answer:

Every manufacturer has their products tested by independent agencies. Find a window you like and it will have the R ratings list on it, it’s the law. You can surf the web and all the window people are very proud to let you know why theirs is the best. Hope this helps, Gordon

Installing replacement windows:

Question:

How to install replacement windows?

Answer:

Well where to start? Depending on the type of existing windows and how they were installed really dictates the removal and installation of the new windows. Are the old ones wood? metal or vinyl. Is the siding or whatever your exterior wall surface is covering the edges of the old. Is there trim around the edges top and bottom? Is there wood trim on the inside sills or drywall? As you can see there are many variables to deal with. I think its best to be more specific, armed with this information and ask me the question again. Gordon