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?

If the existing window frames are in good condition (not rotting), u can install replacement windows. This will eliminate a lot of work.

Remove existing sashes and install window. You are done.

Good luck

Chuck

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Originally Posted by creahands

If the existing window frames are in good condition (not rotting), u can install replacement windows. This will eliminate a lot of work.

Remove existing sashes and install window. You are done.

Good luck

Chuck

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Thanks for the reply but we have to remove the existing frames, because some of the frames are rotten

You really don't need frames and you don't want them. The windows have a few places to put in hidden fasteners such as Tapcon bolts. The windows are usually installed from the inside.

1/4" should be plenty. The window manufacturer can be given rough opening dimensons and they will size from there. Tell them that it's the opening size.

Expanding foam such as Gret stuff can be used to fill large openings. The windows will need to be cauked.

Flashing is used to pretty up the outside. It might be best to hire out this part of the job because or having to rent a large brake (sheet metal bender).

Quote:

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Originally Posted by KeepItSimpleStupid

You really don't need frames and you don't want them. The windows have a few places to put in hidden fasteners such as Tapcon bolts. The windows are usually installed from the inside.

1/4" should be plenty. The window manufacturer can be given rough opening dimensons and they will size from there. Tell them that it's the opening size.

Expanding foam such as Gret stuff can be used to fill large openings. the windows will need to be cauked.

Flashing is used to pretty up the outside. It might be best to hire out this part of the job because or having to rent a large brake (sheet metal bender).

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Thank you. I will check with the manufacturers before buying to find out where to put the fasteners. The reason we thought that we needed the wooden frames was because it would be easier to attach the wooden frames to concrete and then the windows to wood rather than trying to attach the vinyl frames to concrete

Tapcon's Buildex Tapcon® Concrete Anchor

They are sold in the big box stores. You don't need the tool.