Framing Around Existing Basement Windows

[jvh73]

I will be framing out my unfinished basement. There are currently two existing, small, rectangular windows at the top of one of the basement walls. I'm not sure how I would go about framing around those windows so that there will be a smooth transition to the existing window structure(keeping in mind that the framed wall will be a few inches away from the concrete wall). Hope the question makes sense. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

J

[mjpliv]

If they are vinyl windows then there should be some sort of channel for a jamb extension to slide into. If they are wood frame windows then jamb extensions can be toe nailed into the existing jamb stock.

Make you jamb extensions from MDF, Plywood or pine depending on the finish you are going for. You can make a four sided jamb extension or you may want to go with three sides and a sill. Make the jamb extension opening about 1/8" to 1/4" larger than the jamb opening and deep enough to be flush with the finished wall surface. Install the completed jamb/sill using shims to support and center the assembly on the window. Nail through the jamb extensions and shims to secure it. If required, stuff and gaps loosely with fiberglass inslulation.

Here is some pictures (at the bottom of the page) someone posted of a project showing finished jamb extensions -

http://markshouse.homelinux.org/gallery/jcutts?&page=1

[jvh73]

Thanks for the clear explanation. They are vinyl windows but do not have any sort of channel for an extension to slide into. I suppose I'll just have to frame the opening to compensate for a custom jamb extension and just butt the extension up to the vinyl jamb of the window. I could install trim to cover the butt joint. I've attached a picture of the window (which I should have done for the first post) to compensate for my vague descriptions. Thanks again for the reply.

[mjpliv]

Check with the supplier of the vinyl windows. They should be able to supply you with a 1/2" or 3/4" molding that can be screwed to the inside face of the vinyl jambs. Use #8x5/8" or 3/4" pan head wood screws to attach it at about 8-10" centers. This makes for a much better job and a cleaner paint line. I would hazzard a guess it won't cost much more than $0.25 per foot for the molding. It may be refered to as a "drywall return".

[jvh73]

I will certainly look for that type of trim piece. Thanks so much for your input. I really appreciate it.

[marx]

Make you jamb extensions from MDF, Plywood or pine depending on the finish you are going for. You can make a four sided jamb extension or you may want to go with three sides and a sill. Make the jamb extension opening about 1/8" to 1/4" larger than the jamb opening and deep enough to be flush with the finished wall surface. Install the completed jamb/sill using shims to support and center the assembly on the window. Nail through the jamb extensions and shims to secure it. If required, stuff and gaps loosely with fiberglass inslulation.

Here is some pictures (at the bottom of the page) someone posted of a project showing finished jamb extensions -

http://markshouse.homelinux.org/gallery/jcutts?&page=1

WOW! That's my site! Hi All, pretty cool someone found my little site. I think I'd stay away from MDF for basement window jamb extensions. The "drywall return" sounds like a great idea. The same item is available in the drywall section of major "home improvement centers" but only 1/2" or 5/8" wide. My wood is usually tight enough for a caulk joint. If the window isn't nicely aligned in the opening front to back, say 8 1/4" at the top and 8 5/8" at the bottom, cut your jamb extensions to height and width. Place them individually against the window and scribe the back side allowing for depth of the furring and wall finish material. I just make a little block of wood and slide it and a pencil the jamb extension material.