Awning and hopper replacement windows are among the first styles that come to mind when people think about remodeling their basement in the New Jersey and New York Metro area. Having a welcome source of light that also allows superior ventilation is a great choice. At Renewal by Andersen when they have the space, we often help our customers give their lower level living space, light and a fresh new look with casement windows, but, sometimes this versatile style just won’t work in your situation. So, which replacement window should you buy if you are updating your basement? Check out these tips to help make your spaces more functional, beautiful and healthy for your family.
Energy-efficient replacement windows help you control the cost of heating and air conditioning throughout your home. The same is true of basements, which often feel damp and dark because most basements don’t have large windows to usher in brilliant sunshine. When working with smaller windows, you need to choose a style, or styles, that are easy to use and clean, and don’t require a lot of maintenance to prevent drafts and water seepage around the window unit.
All basements are not created equal. Some have small windows near the top of the wall. Some have an outside entrance, while others have an entrance from the interior of the home. Your preexisting windows and doors will determine the size of your replacement windows, but you have flexibility to choose a design that complements your lifestyle. The style you choose should be easy to take care of, enable as much natural light as your surroundings allow, and let you circulate air to keep the room from becoming stale. Egress during an emergency is critical, but you also want a window with a locking system that discourages uninvited “guests” from entering.
If you have the space, a high-quality casement window is an excellent choice for windows high on the wall because:
Sounds like casement windows are the perfect solution, doesn’t it? While these versatile windows are definitely worth considering, they won’t work for every environment. For example, if you have a walkway directly outside the windows, they could block the path when open. And, if your current windows are wider than they are tall, it may be difficult to reach from corner to corner to clean your glass panes from inside. Fortunately there are other options. If you want to increase natural light levels, sliding windows are a good choice. Sliders offer abundant air flow, without interfering with walkway traffic. And, the low-profile (narrow frames) gives you a larger glass area compared to casement replacement windows, so you get a better view of the world outside (assuming you have a view from your basement).
Two other popular replacement window styles, awnings and hoppers, work very well in basement spaces. Awning windows are designed to channel water away from the house when open, so you can refresh your basement rooms even when a gentle rain is falling without worrying about rain coming inside. Awnings are hinged at the top and push outward, so like casements, you won’t enjoy full functionality if there are shrubs or other plants growing directly outside your window. An open awning window may also interfere with outdoor activity close to the house. Hoppers are hinged at the bottom and pull inward. It is easy to clean both surfaces on a hopper window unit from indoors, and you won’t have to worry about blocking the walkway. But, you shouldn’t open your windows on a rainy day, or you may end up with water on the floor and other things placed directly under the window.
Still have questions about which replacement window you should buy to update your basement? We can help. Just fill in the short form on this page or give a Renewal by Andersen replacement window consultant a call. Dial (866) 609-5033 today to get started immediately.
Check out these posts for more information on Awning, Hopper and Sliding windows:
Learn Everything You Need to Know BEFORE Buying Replacement Windows
