How to pick out basement windows

Awning, casement, gliding, and picture windows are our go-to picks for basement windows. Their openings, shapes, and other features make them a good fit in a lower level. Read on to find out which options we recommend in replacement versus new construction scenarios and which window we recommend when energy efficiency is the top priority.

If you’re looking to replace an existing basement window, consider awning or gliding windows. Both work well when there isn’t a lot of above-ground space due to their shapes, and a gliding window is available in sizes large enough to meet egress requirements.

Here are more details on these windows:

Awning window
Where it works well: If your basement doesn’t have a lot of above-ground wall space, this window’s horizontal shape makes it a good fit. It hinges from the top and opens outward so you can let in a fresh breeze in any weather — and you don’t have to worry about letting pests in if you get an insect screen with it.

An option to consider: The 100 Series Awning Window is a great option. It’s made of virtually maintenance-free Fibrex® material and available as an insert window replacement (a window that can fit inside an existing frame).

Gliding window
Where it works well: Another horizontally oriented window, a glider has two sashes that slide from side to side to open. Like an awning window, it fits well in a basement without a lot of above-ground wall space, but unlike an awning, it can be sized large enough to meet egress requirements for an emergency exit.

An option to consider: The 100 Series Gliding Window is made of Fibrex material and is available as a replacement insert window.

Hopper window
Hopper windows are small but functional windows commonly used to let fresh air into basements and bathrooms. They are horizontally oriented with hinges at the bottom, so they open into the room from the top — think of an upside-down awning window. While we no longer make hopper windows, we do offer replacement sashes for Andersen® basement windows manufactured between 1934 (yes, you read that year right) and 2009. So if it’s just the glass that’s broken on your window, you might be able to fix it with a replacement sash from our Parts Store.

Depending on the size and style of your basement, lots of different windows might work. If you have a walk-out basement, for example, almost any window will work. But there’s one window we like in nearly any new construction basement, and that’s the casement.

The casement is one of our most energy-efficient windows, but there’s one that’s even better in this respect and that’s the picture window. Picture windows are energy efficient because they are “fixed,” meaning they don’t open (or operate). These windows can brighten up a dark basement, they’re available in a variety of sizes, and they’ll help improve your home’s energy efficiency.

An option to consider: The A-Series Picture Window is our best-performing picture window. Made of wood that’s protected by fiberglass, this window is weather resistant and maintenance free. Boost its performance even further by opting for triple-pane glass.

Just remember, a picture window won’t work if you need an egress window. Not sure what egress means exactly? We'll clear that up next.

In case of a fire or other emergency, building code requires certain rooms to have openings (windows or doors) that allow for escape or rescue. You'll commonly hear this type of opening referred to as an “egress window” — an egress is an exit. Although building codes vary by location, most require at least one emergency escape or rescue opening in rooms where people sleep. If your basement has a bedroom, chances are this type of opening will be required.

In order for a window or door to qualify as an emergency escape or rescue opening, you must be able to open it from inside the room without keys, tools, or special knowledge. Building codes will specify the size of the opening and even how large the window well should be outside if the window is below ground level.

Here are the common minimum dimensions required of emergency escape or rescue openings by the International Residential Code (IRC):

• Minimum net clear opening area of 5.7 square feet (exception of 5 square feet for openings at ground level).
• Minimum net clear opening height of 24 inches.
• Minimum net clear opening width of 20 inches.
• Maximum sill height of 44 inches measured from the finished floor to the bottom of the clear opening. Note: Clear opening is the area between the window sash and the frame when the window or patio door is fully opened. Need a quick primer on parts of a window?

State and local building codes can vary, as can emergency escape or rescue opening requirements for window replacement versus new construction. Your builder or contractor should be familiar with what the local building code requires. If you’re taking on a DIY basement project, it's important to check with your local code official about what code might apply.

Once you understand the requirements in your locale, you can make sure your desired window will meet minimum dimensions.

If you’re concerned about the security of your basement windows, here are some options to consider:

• Stronger glass: Tempered glass is four times stronger than standard glass and more difficult to break. It’s available as an upgrade on our windows. It may also be required by code in certain areas.
• Automatic locks: Certain windows, such as the 100 Series Gliding Window, have locks that automatically engage when you close certain windows, so you never have to worry about someone forgetting to lock up.
• Window opening control devices (WOCDs): These devices allow you to open your window but keep the opening to less than 4 inches, so you can have fresh air and peace of mind. A WOCD can be built into a new window or applied as an accessory to an existing window.