Basement Windows

Secure, Practical & Durable

Basement windows are often neglected and have it harder than other windows. They are at a higher risk of moisture damage from flooding and rain splashing back up from the ground not to mention humidity indoors. They are at a higher risk of being hit by objects such as debris or balls and also a favourite entry point for burglars. Thus, they must feature excellent durability, weather resistance and security all while serving their main purpose of providing natural light and fresh air in the basement. Luckily, these features are not mutually exclusive and Neuffer offers a huge range of options whether you're looking to remodel, or build a new home.

What are Basement Windows?

There is little to distinguish between a casement window appropriate for the basement and a standard model for upper-level living rooms. Both products must meet the same energy efficiency and security requirements. They are all available with various types of opening mechanisms – from tilt-and-turn mechanisms to fixed windows and of course available in all RAL colours. Basement windows only differ from common ones in three basic installation aspects:

Possible installation depth
Is egress desired or required by local codes?
Dimension requirements are usually fixed and inflexible
Special shapes such as rectangles, ovals etc. are common

Based on where you plan to install them, cellar windows are normally smaller than standard ones on other floors. Wall openings in older buildings can feature semi-circular shapes, creating a demand for a customised shape for the frame and window.

However, there is ultimately no need to categorize windows based on function. Second floor casement windows and basement window are both available with the same range of options. The deciding factors are your personal taste, and of course your home itself.

Burglary Protection

As basement windows are located on the ground level, they are often convenient points of entry for burglars. Thus, it is very important to configure additional security features to compensate for their easy accessibility.

Timber and aluminium components offer good standard security due to the robustness of the material, even when using a tilt-and-turn mechanisms. On the other hand, uPVC windows can be improved with certain additional features such as steel reinforced frames and upgrading the fittings to RC2.

Safety Glass for Basement Windows

Using laminated safety glass for installation at ground level is almost imperative. Burglars can normally be stopped from entering buildings through windows with such types of glazing by preventing break-ins for a few minutes. Usually, this initial resistance is too high a risk for most burglars, leading to them giving up their attempts.

Grilles and Fly Screens improve Burglary Protection

Installing grids or fly screens can be enough to deter burglars by making it obvious that breaking in while require too much effort, noise and activity which increases the risk of detection. Thus, even simple features like contribute to a window's and therefore home's security.

Roller Shutters as Basement Security Elements

Robust roller shutter curtains in front of a window give intruders a clear sign that entering is not worth the effort. uPVC roller shutters are entirely sufficient for this purpose, but aluminium can guarantee that a persistent intruder will need more time for entering. Built-in roller shutters – made of uPVC or aluminium – are generally even more difficult to open, as external access to the shutter box is not possible.

Insulation and Weather Resistance

Usage of your basement will determine whether or not insulation is a concern. Unless it is finished and regularly used as living space, the minimum insulation requirements are more than sufficient since it will not be heated or cooled anyway.

Weather resistance however, particularly in terms of water, is critical. Inside, basements often tend to collect humidity which can lead to water damage and mould build up over time. Externally, especially in areas where flooding occurs, it is very important to ensure that all basement windows are waterproof. Although standard aluminium or uPVC frames offer a certain amount of protection, bear in mind that they are neither designed for larger amounts of water nor flood pressure.

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