Tips
How to pick out basement windows
Picking out windows for the basement or cellar presents some unique challenges. Maybe you’re looking for a window that can handle the damp conditions near the ground, maybe you’re thinking about improving safety and security, maybe you just want an economical option for this secondary space. Whatever your priorities, we can point you in the direction of a good basement window.
What kind of windows are best for a basement?
Awning, casement, gliding, and picture windows are popular basement window choices. Any of these might be right for your basement. For example, if yours is a new construction home, you might be able to plan for a large window well that will accommodate taller windows, like casements. If your basement lacks much above-ground space, horizontally oriented awning windows can make a great choice. And if you’re adding a basement bedroom, you’ll need a window that meets egress requirements.* In which case, you’ll find options among both our casement and gliding windows. Whatever the scenario, there’s a basement window that’ll suit your space and meet your needs — let's narrow down your options.
The best replacement basement windows
If you’re looking to replace an existing basement window, consider awning or gliding windows. Both work well when there isn’t a lot of above-ground space due to their shapes, and a gliding window is available in sizes large enough to meet egress requirements.
Here are more details on these windows:
Awning window
Where it works well: If your basement doesn’t have a lot of above-ground wall space, this window’s horizontal shape makes it a good fit. It hinges from the top and opens outward so you can let in a fresh breeze in any weather — and you don’t have to worry about letting pests in if you get an insect screen with it.
An option to consider: The 100 Series Awning Window is a great option. It’s made of virtually maintenance-free Fibrex® material and available as an insert window replacement (a window that can fit inside an existing frame).
Gliding window
Where it works well: Another horizontally oriented window, a glider has two sashes that slide from side to side to open. Like an awning window, it fits well in a basement without a lot of above-ground wall space, but unlike an awning, it can be sized large enough to meet egress requirements for an emergency exit.
An option to consider: The 100 Series Gliding Window is made of Fibrex material and is available as a replacement insert window.
Hopper window
Hopper windows are small but functional windows commonly used to let fresh air into basements and bathrooms. They are horizontally oriented with hinges at the bottom, so they open into the room from the top — think of an upside-down awning window. While we no longer make hopper windows, we do offer replacement sashes for Andersen® basement windows manufactured between 1934 (yes, you read that year right) and 2009. So if it’s just the glass that’s broken on your window, you might be able to fix it with a replacement sash from our Parts Store.
