As specified in their name, basement windows are defined according to their installation location. Given wall openings and building design, they tend to be smaller in size than standard casement models and often have a more restricted required installation depth. Being close to ground floor level, basement windows may also often need to meet emergency exit regulations. In older buildings a further characteristic is then that the windows have to be produced in custom shapes, such as oval or semi-circular, to fit the building facade. At Neuffer we offer bespoke solutions to tailor windows to your project and can provide the know-how, allowing you to order with ease.
Key Considerations for Basement Windows
Given their low installation and the fact that cellars may not always be used or renovated, a basement window faces more wear than standard models located higher up. It is at greater risk of moisture damage from flooding as well as indoor humidity, for instance. There is then also an increased chance that the window may be hit by objects like debris or balls, and they tend to provide easier access for break-in attempts.
When purchasing cellar windows, the following factors should therefore be taken into account to ensure excellent performance and durability:
- Excellent weather resistance
- Good ventilation options
- High security fittings
- Certified strength & resistance
- Custom design and dimension possibilities
With our extensive experience in the window and door industry, purpose-designed glazing, tested materials, made-to-measure profiles, and stylish add-on features, products from Neuffer can achieve the above requirements for an affordable price and bring quality products to new-builds and renovation projects alike.
Tailored Glazing for Superior Resistance
At Neuffer the integration of laminated safety glazing is a simple yet effective solution that we offer to boost basement window security. The glass is created by inserting multiple PVB foil interlayers between the glazed panes. This increases the strength of the glazing and means that if it is broken under very high force, the shards will remain held to the intact foil and won't shatter out. The foil itself then requires further specialist tools to break. The time taken for burglars to enter the building as well as the difficulty of access is therefore greatly prolonged. Alongside lamination, the glazing can then also be tempered to further increase its impact resistance. Frosted surface finishes are also available to reduce visibility from the outside while keeping the interior light.
Beyond increasing resistance, further options for glass are additionally available at Neuffer. Although many basements are not used as living areas and rather for storage purposes, our standard double glazing can prevent them from becoming too cold and damp, for instance, which helps to prevent mould formation. For cellars that have been renovated though and are used frequently, triple glazing can then be an alternative and ideal option. Featuring three panes of glass with the spaces between them filled with inert sealed argon gas, energy loss via conduction is kept to a minimum to achieve a comfortable interior temperature and save on bills.
Ensure Good Ventilation with our Secure Openings
Although fixed casement windows from Neuffer can be ideal for cellars that already have another source of air supply, for those that don't or to prevent the interior from becoming too humid, basement models with a tilt-only or tilt and turn opening are often recommended. A tilt-only option, for instance, means that the window can be opened ajar by turning the handle. This lets in a steady yet subtle amount of air and features secure upper scissor fittings. With a customizable number of locking plates, a police-recommended burglar resistance class of RC2 can be achieved. A tilt and turn opening, on the other hand, has this tilting function but also the option to turn the handle to a second position, which has the window swing fully open to the inside. The mechanism features equally secure metal hinges and can be ideal for basements that have been converted to living areas because the window lets in much light while allowing for maximum ventilation.
Tested Frames Provide Premium Protection
Alongside glazing and various mechanisms, window frames also play a role in increasing cellar window security and impact resistance. At Neuffer we offer five frame materials:
- Vinyl
- Wood
- Aluminum
- Aluminum vinyl
- Aluminum clad wood
While vinyl can be particularly affordable and insulating just as timber impresses with its sturdiness and charming patterns, for cellar windows we recommend aluminum or the variants aluminum vinyl and aluminum clad wood that feature an exterior metal surface. This is because aluminum provides the best weather resistance and strength. As well as being naturally impact resistant, the metal is anodized during our window manufacturing to ensure anti-rust properties while welded corners paired with quality seals provide excellent water tightness. Robust roller shutters can then also be added to the window's exterior to provide an extra layer of security.
To prove their excellent durability and protection against the elements, products from Neuffer undergo multiple rounds of testing. Rapid cycles of positive and negative pressure are used to determine impact resistance, for example. Given our excellent performance in such tests, our clad models, such as the Eco Plano and Idealu models have received certificates from accreditation bodies IFT Rosenheim and All Facade Ltd confirming their water tightness and strength. We therefore offer 5 and 10-year guarantees on their wooden or aluminum faces respectively.
Crafting Custom Style
Although cellar windows will not be the centerpiece of building design, they can still have an impact on exterior style and for renovated spaces a beautiful finish should not have to be compromised on. To achieve a quality look while also meeting the requirements of different wall dimensions, we offer basement products in a range of different shapes, for example. From round to triangular, trapezoid, and more, we can construct products with made-to-measure dimensions tailored to specific projects.
Once the shape has been determined, further aesthetic features then include color finishes and glazing bars. In terms of the available palette of tones, exact options differ depending on the frame material selected with classic whites, contemporary anthracite, replica wood decors, and metallic glimmer coatings being popular choices. Whatever finish is selected, all are applied via professional processes, such as powder-coating and foiling. This ensures a quality surface, impressive UV resistance, and durable vibrance. To then add further character and a traditional touch to cellars, a variety of matching glazing bars are also available.
Ordering from Abroad Made Simple
At Neuffer we are specialists in international shipping and custom-made products. Just contact us with questions today or send details of your project and desired products. Depending on the nature of your query we will provide answers or get in touch with an initial consultation. Our in-house experts can work with you to find the best solution to match your needs, budget, and style. Once details are finalized, we can provide a final price with agreed shipping arrangements. Additionally, we can assist with an import logistics broker and can discuss different installation options.
