How to Cut a Basement Window
Cutting a basement window is the first step toward installing a window and bringing light into the basement. Cutting out the opening is often the most difficult part of installing a new window. With the proper tools and the correct instruction, this task can be accomplished by most homeowners. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Marker
- Masking tape
- Safety goggles
- Dust mask
- Concrete saw
- Diamond blade
- Hammer drill
- Masonry blade
- Masonry hammer
- Brick chisel
Instructions
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Inspect both the inside and outside of the house to decide where the best place is for the window to be located. Move to the inside of the house and measure out the opening with a tape measure. Mark each corner of the window with a black marker.
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2
Outline the perimeter of the window with masking tape along the inside of the wall. Tape the masking tape up so it is the exact size and shape of the new window.
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3
Drill a pilot hole directly in the center with a hammer drill and a masonry bit to go through the concrete. Install a diamond blade on the concrete saw and line it up in the bottom corner. Cut carefully through the block foundation along the masking tape. Move up the sides and go around the entire area until the interior cuts have been made.
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Run masking tape along the outside of the wall and repeat the same procedure making the same cuts around the perimeter until the entire area has been outlined.
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Hammer the blocks out with a four pound masonry hammer. Knock out all of the blocks until the opening is completely clear and the new window is ready to install. Smooth the area with a brick chisel to make it as level as possible.
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Tips & Warnings
Always wear safety goggles and a dust mask when working with a concrete saw as there will be a tremendous amount of dust.
Use a tarp when cutting the block to help catch the dust that will fly up.
References
- Photo Credit Brand X Pictures/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
