Basement windows could be made out of wood, metal or vinyl.
Replacing a basement window with a wood window:
There are some drawbacks and some positive things to wood windows. A drawback, they rot. There is also maintenance, painting and care. They are also easy to be broken into by a burglar. Usually they are a single pane window which means they are not very energy efficient. However, they are fairly easy to put in and they are pretty inexpensive.
Replacing a basement window with a metal window:
If you are doing new construction, metal windows are really easy to put in because the concrete is poured around them. However, they radiate cold, which means that you will have more condensation creating more humidity in the basement. This also means they can rust out on you. They are also often single pain and security on them is not very good. However, they are also inexpensive.
Replacing a basement window with a vinyl window:
You don't have to worry about insect eating them or rotting. They hold up very well. They are very easy to put in and are energy efficient. Some are argon filled, which creates a R-value. However, they are more expensive.
If a homeowner was replacing a basement window, I'd recommend vinyl windows. Also, homeowners should be aware of the codes. Find out what he codes are in your area. Before you take the window out, first check the corner and see if there is a crack in the foundation wall. In most cases you will see a crack because it is the most common basement cracks there are. That needs to be repaired immediately. Cracks can allow water, moisture, insects and odor into the basement.
For more information, contact A1 Foundation Crack Repair.