Replacing basement windows

[ib_jigged]

I need to replace my basement windows. I consider myself handy, and have replaced all my windows (15) in my house already except for the 3 basement windows.

My question is, how do you go about replacing a window when it is concrete on 3 sides of the window? The current windows are the cheap single panes about 32 years old and are getting pretty bad with dry rot. I bought 3 vinyl double panes to repleace them. It looks as if there is some wood that is set in the concrete.

Do I just try to remove that wood and replace with treated wood to frame it in and then use a sealant (caulk) to set the new window in place? The new windows have a fin all the way around with only one side (top) with nail holes.

I am worried that once I pull the old windows out I may not be able to put the new ones in properly.

Thanks in advance for any replies!

[Surface Tension]

Take out the frame and replace with pressured treated. Depending on your opening and window size use what ever thickness PT it takes to give the correct opening. Use a polyurethane caulk on the PT to block wall then fasten with Tapcon screws.

Use a door and window caulk on the frame where the nail flange makes contact. Set the window in, center and plumb it. If its a larger window level it and square it up. Start out by shimming the bottom and level. Shim the sides. Look to see that the Vinyl jambs are not warped, if they are shim. Test their operation for sticking and that that sill, jamb and weather stripping are in the correct and even contact. Nail the flange down. Use a non expanding foam(not latex) to insulate between the jamb and framing. Once its set the window isn't going anywhere.

Finish off with brick molding over the nail flange or 1 1/2 stock and clad it.

[Roofer]

Good explanation Surface.

Have a question though. Most vinyl windows say not to use foam. I know there is 'window' non minimal expanding foam. Id it still good to use the foam, even though the manufacturer says not to, being it is minimal expansion?

[sparcebag]

I used foam on my own vinyl windows,No problem if you arent messy! But it is like glue.Even the treated subsill & jambs surface spoke of I was going to add just use foam the tapcons wont crack the block, where at times they do crack block.But too many cooks spoil the broth,and it is the right way surface suggested.

[kentuck_ike]

I deal with 3 different vinyl window companies and have asked all there reps about non expanding foam. They all said not to use it, and to stick with stuffing fiberglass. The last thing I want to do is cause a warranty issue for my customers, so we still use fiberglass.

Ike

[Hookmaster]

Timely thread. I have two basement windows in concrete to do this summer.

[sparcebag]

I guess I should have added they suggest against it because the jambs have no interior fastening,only the exterior flange.The jambs will easily bow without braceing causeing the sash to bind and maybe not slide at all.

[Surface Tension]

Vinyl jambs bend easy, thats why they say not to use foam. As long as you use non expanding and don't over do it you'll be fine.

There is no question in my mind which stops air and insulates better.