Thursday, 12 February 2015

Basement Windows - Yep Even In Vegas

While basements aren't that common in Las Vegas, there are houses in the Valley that do have basements.  When your basement need replacement windows, you need someone with expierence, and knowledge about how, why and what to replace your windows with. Windows allow light and ventilation to freely flow into your home. In a basement, due to its location, it might be little trickier to make these things happen. They have to be carefully planned and installed for optimum efficiency – and then there is of course the IRC 2009 building code that has to be adhered to.

Your basement can be the dark place with the hanging bulb next to the dilapidated staircase that we see in scary movies, or you could turn it into a comfortable relaxation or inhabitable space. Much of the ambiance of your basement will depend on the windows in this space, so when you get to the point where they are an eyesore, cracked or rotten, be sure to replace them.

Moisture is a common problem in basements. Installing or replacing windows in your basement would therefore best be left to professionals who are experts at installing the correct type of window. Due to the general risk of dampness in basements, triple-paned glass might be the best way to go and will save you from damage to walls and items in the basement from water-leaking windows. These windows are also expertly energy-efficient and will help you save on heating cost from the minute they are installed. If you have steel windows in your basement, you should definitely have them replaced with vinyl ones or a vinyl well which is less affected by temperature and much more durable.

Having an exact fit for windows in general is important but it is really crucial when it comes to basement windows. A poorly fitted window will not only allow water leaks but will also let icy cold drafts in during winter. These windows have to be very well-insulated as gaps between windows and frames or between frames and walls could lead to extensive damage in your basement through water and/or wind, and could also contribute to ill-health of those living in the space.

Something that is often forgotten in basements, is the International Residential Code (IRC) 2009 which makes egress (or escape and rescue windows) a must for all rooms used for sleeping. If your basement fits this description and doesn’t have an opening such as a door to the outside, an egress window is a non-negotiable in the interest of saving lives. The code specifications differ from state to state and are quite demanding, making it something that should rather be dealt with by a professional window installer as opposed to learning through tragedy.


BRL in Las Vegas has been installing windows for over 30 years and doesn’t have any complaints with the Better Business Bureau. You can trust us with your basement windows.  Give us a call for a free estimate!

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