Energy Efficient Basement Windows: What's NOT Recommended

Steel Basement Windows

Steel basement windows are typically designed with a single pane glass window and a steel frame.

Disadvantages To Steel Windows:

Poor Energy Efficiency: As we know, metal is a poor insulation material. When they're brand new, steel basement windows have an R-1 insulation rating. This means that 50% of the heat that reaches them passes directly through.

Short Lifespan: Within 5-10 years' time, steel basement windows will rust and corrode so badly that they'll need to be replaced. That means that from the day they're installed onward, they're already beginning to grow drafty and ugly.

Loss Of Functionality: When steel basement windows begin to rust in place, they will become difficult or impossible to open and close. If water is building up against these corroding windows, they will be more prone to leaking than ever -- and that water will end up in your basement!

Wood-Framed Basement Windows

Wood-framed basement windows are usually designed with a single pane of glass, and a painted wood frame. Because wood is more energy efficient than steel, these windows are superior to steel-framed windows.

Disadvantages To Wood-Framed Windows

Continual Maintenance: The painted wood will break down continually. To keep these windows looking good, you'll need to repaint them every 5-8 years.

Short Lifespan: Wood basement windows are exposed to more water, mud, and humidity than other windows in your home. So while all window frames can be damaged by rot, this kind of damage affects basement windows much more often.

Attracts Mold & Pests: Along with rot, wooden window frames will also support mold growth. And because basement windows are located so close to the ground, this damp, rotting wood can serve as a way for termites, carpenter ants, and wood-eating insects to enter your home.

Old-Fashioned Basement Window Wells

Basement window wells are typically designed using aluminum, wood, or steel. They are most often installed in a half-oval shape that encloses your basement window.

Disadvantages To Old-Fashioned Window Wells

Poor Energy Efficiency: Energy efficiency might seem like a strange thing to consider when choosing your basement window well. But if you replace your old-fashioned model with a window well that includes a clear cover, your window is now protected from being buffeted by cold winds all winter long.

Short Lifespan: Old-fashioned window wells will quickly begin to rust, rot, or corrode, leaving an ugly shell around each window. I'm sure that's not the view they were planning on when your basement windows were installed!

Fills With Debris, Snow, & Rainwater: Open window wells will continually fill with dirt, leaves, debris, rainwater, and snow. As this debris builds up, weeds and even seedling trees may begin to grow in the wells.

Along with the eyesore, water pooling in wells will build up against the basement windows. Most basement windows are not water-tight, so that water is likely to end up leaking through to your basement space.