How to install replacement vinyl windows into a concrete basement.
We have a 1955 bungalow. We want to replace the original wooden windows in the basement with vinyl sliding windows. The basement walls are about 8" concrete. The rough opening is 36" x 24" We believe that we need to remove the old windows and frame, then put in a new frame of pressured treated wood. What thickness should the new frame be ? Do we need to build a box and then put this into the rough opening or do we attach the top pieces of wood and then the sides(the latter method seems easier). What do we use to anchor the wood to the concrete? We have been told that we can attach the vinyl window to the new frame by screwing through the side of the vinyl frame, wouldn't this crack the vinyl frame. We can't use a nailing fin because we do not want the new window to jut out from the basement wall. What gap should there be between the vinyl window and the new frame is it 1/4 or 3/8 on all sides" What about insulation between the vinyl window and the frame, I believe there is a special foam what is it called? Do we fill all of the gap? How do we finish off on the outside if the window if there is a gap?