Windows Types and Covering

Windows are a key element to any house.  They bring in light from the outside basking the interior with a natural glow.  They also serve as proper ventilation for the house bringing in a light breeze from the outside (which makes them a perfect complement to beach houses) and enabling air circulation in the house to prevent it from being stuffy and suffocating to the house occupants.   Windows also come in many designs and shapes so that they fit any type of housing plan.  

Installing windows for the basement are a slightly different matter though.  If you’re using the basement for purely storage reasons, then you may need as little as one to serve as an escape hatch for emergencies.  You may need more if the basement is to be turned into a liveable room like an extra apartment or even something like a family room or a kids’ playroom.  You have to check with your local building code requirements to see what is expected of you as the requirements may differ from state to state.  

There are different types of windows that you can utilize for your basement.   Each can be easily custom-tailored to fit your needs.  Not only do they bring natural light into your basement but they may also serve as an egress hatch which is sometimes specified by building code requirements.  

The most basic and least expensive type of basement windows is the hopper window.  These windows are relatively small, made specifically as a ventilation system for the basement and easy to install even as a do-it-yourself project.  You’ll easily recognize hopper windows because they open from the top, pulling inward with their hinge on the bottom and the screen is usually installed outside of the window frame.  

Sliding windows (also called sliding or glider windows) are a good choice if you don’t have ample space to open your windows inward or when the space inside the basement can’t accommodate wide openings.  They are usually made of aluminum which is impervious to rusting which is a good idea since the basement can be damp and moist.  What’s more, they also come with screens so you can keep them open without worrying about insects or other creatures coming into the room.

Awning windows are probably the most expensive type of basement window compared to both the hopper and the slider.  They are however built for proper ventilation because you can leave them open even despite of the weather.  They open outward from hinges on the bottom (as opposed to the hopper which opens at the top) and their screens are inside of the window frame.  

Though not exactly a window, a window well is usually grouped with windows because it provides an egress or escape route from the basement (and basically the house) in case of emergencies.  It is also another way for firemen to get in case of fire.  Window wells are also a local building requirement so you really have to comply to ensure your safety.