This video documents a complete do-it-yourself (DIY) installation of a basement egress window, undertaken to save money compared to a professional quote of nearly $6,000. The project begins with excavating a large pit next to the foundation, which involves breaking up and removing a thick concrete patio slab. The core of the project is the use of a specialized Husqvarna K4000 "Cut n Break" saw to make a precise, 16-inch-deep cut through the poured concrete foundation wall. The process involves meticulous measuring, creating a guide for the saw, and dealing with challenges like repeatedly tripping circuit breakers. After the concrete section is removed, a new wooden frame is constructed, the window is installed with proper flashing and sealing, and a large window well is secured to the foundation, completing the project for just over half the quoted cost.
A Professional-Level DIY Egress Window Installation
0:00 - Project Goal: The objective is to replace a small basement window with a regulation-size egress window to legally classify the basement space as a bedroom, adding safety and value to the home.
0:52 - Site Preparation: The project starts with cutting and removing a thick concrete patio slab next to the foundation to make room for the new window well.
6:42 - Major Excavation: A significant amount of digging is required to create a hole approximately 3 feet deep, 3 feet wide, and 6 feet long to accommodate the window well and provide working space.
9:54 - The Right Tool for the Job: A Husqvarna K4000 "Cut n Break" saw is used. This specialized tool features two blades that make parallel cuts, allowing a breaker bar to remove the center "kerf" and enabling the saw to cut up to 16 inches deep into the concrete foundation.
11:51 - Precision Cutting Technique: To ensure a straight cut, a board is anchored to the foundation wall to act as a guide for the saw. The bottom of the opening is cut first to prevent the weight of the concrete from pinching the saw blade.
16:41 - Electrical Issues: A recurring challenge is the high-amperage saw repeatedly tripping the 20-amp circuit breaker, which slows down the cutting process significantly.
20:03 - Key Takeaway: Significant Cost Savings: The narrator breaks down the cost, estimating a total of around $3,000 for materials and the purchase of the saw, a substantial saving compared to the $6,000 professional quote. The new saw is now an asset for his business.
22:16 - Removing the Foundation Section: After hours of cutting, the large, heavy piece of concrete foundation is successfully broken free and removed from the opening.
25:46 - Framing and Window Installation: A pressure-treated wood frame is constructed inside the new concrete opening. The window is then set, leveled, and secured.
29:06 - Waterproofing and Flashing: Proper sealing techniques are crucial. The window is caulked on three sides (top and sides), leaving the bottom open. A custom-sloped flashing pan is installed on the sill to ensure any water drains out and away from the foundation.
33:58 - Installing the Window Well: A large, white window well is positioned in the excavated pit, secured to the foundation wall, and backfilled with clean gravel to allow for proper drainage.
36:50 - Final Conclusion: The project, while time-consuming and labor-intensive, is deemed achievable for a skilled DIYer. For those less experienced, the narrator suggests digging the hole yourself and hiring a professional concrete cutting service to save money while avoiding the most difficult part of the job.