Basement Window Shopping Guide

Basement windows have different considerations than those in other areas of the home. If your needs are as simple as wanting a window in the basement, then there are many styles to choose from. If you need a basement egress window, then you will need a style that opens easily and meets minimum size requirements. Here’s what to know.

What is a Window in a Basement Called?

“Egress” is the formal word for an escape window in the basement. You need to install a basement window that meets egress requirements if you are using it as living space or as an additional bedroom.

However, if you use your basement for storage or other purposes than living space, then you don’t need an egress window — you can choose any type that fits your home and budget.

Basement Egress Window: What Are My Options?

You can read more about egress size requirements, but for the purposes of this article, you can simply know that escape windows need to open easily and provide five square feet of open space. And that means your list of options is finite. Here’s what you have to choose from:

• Hopper windows. These are hinged on the bottom and open outward. They are especially popular because they are small and very energy efficient.
• Casement windows. Similar to hopper, but hinged on the side instead. Excellent for ventilation and light.
• Awning windows. The sister of the hopper window, an awning window is hinged at the bottom and opens up. Good for all the same reasons that hoppers are with the benefit of being great for rainy climates.
• Sliding windows. Another good option for getting lots of light in. These are good for narrow, long wall spaces.
• Single-hung or double-hung windows. Both popular options, the only downside here is that you will need quite a bit of wall space to accommodate the minimum requirements for the size of the opening.

You can explore all these options in more depth by reading about egress window types.

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Fixed Windows for Basements 

Aren’t using your basement as any kind of habitable living space? Then your window options extend to “anything that fits.” If you already need to replace a basement window, consider if you will ever finish the basement into additional home space before selecting a fixed window. That way, if you decide to finish your basement down the line, you don’t have to replace the window again.

The biggest benefits to fixed windows in the basement are that they are very energy efficient, tend to be cheaper than moveable windows, and come in many sizes. Here are the two best options:

• Glass block windows. Produced from multiple blocks of thick glass about two to three inches deep. Basement glass block windows are a good choice because they provide maximum privacy and security.
• Picture windows. These are a single piece of glass uninterrupted by mullions, similar to a casement window, so they provide excellent light. Unlike casement windows, picture windows do not open or close.

Window Frame Considerations for Basement Windows

The best material for basement window frames is vinyl. Vinyl frames protect basement windows from water damage and do not warp. In addition, the color of vinyl frames does not fade, so you don’t have to worry about repainting or refinishing these windows. 

However, be aware that basement vinyl windows are not suitable for every climate. Homes in areas prone to wildfires, for example, would do better with another material. Aluminum and fiberglass windows are also durable and low-maintenance options for basements.

The Final Word on a Basement Egress Window

If you are using your basement as a bedroom, office, play room, living room, or any other kind of living space, then you need an egress window. Escape windows are a matter of safety, and that means they are a job best left to the pros.

A contractor can help you find the right windows for your specific basement and talk you through options for egress windows that fit your budget.

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