What Are Egress Windows

Egress windows are emergency exits that must be large enough for homeowners to crawl through in the event of a fire.

International code requires egress windows in all sleeping rooms. However, the challenge arises in basements, where space is limited.

An egress window is an emergency exit that allows for escape and firefighter access.

The International Residential Code mandates that every sleeping room must have at least one egress option.

While installing large egress windows on upper floors is relatively easy, it becomes more difficult in the basement. Basements, being partially or fully below ground, require more costly and labor-intensive installations for adequately sized windows.

So, what are the size requirements for egress windows?

Here are the latest egress window standards:

– Window minimum net clear opening height: 24 inches

– Window minimum net clear opening width: 20 inches

– Window should be installed no higher than 44 inches from the floor

– Window must have a net clear opening of 5.7 square feet or 5 feet for a ground floor

What is an Egress Window Well?

An egress window well is used in below-grade basements. The area is clear from dirt and surrounded by a protective u-shaped piece of plastic or metal. The u-shaped surround prevents caving in and allows occupants and firefighters to exit or enter the home.

An egress window well must be at least 36 inches from the window, have a minimum size of 9 square feet, and not interfere with the window opening.

Egress Window Cover: What it is and Why it’s Important

An egress cover is designed to prevent falls and keep debris out of window wells. These covers are typically made of plexiglass and are essential for the safety of pets and children.

To comply with building codes, egress window covers must be easily removable without the need for tools.

Types of Egress Windows

An egress window is any window that meets the following criteria: a minimum net height of 24 inches and a minimum net width of 20 inches. There are three main types:

Casement Window

Casement windows are the preferred choice for egress windows in basements. They open fully outward on a hinge, making them practical for smaller basement bedrooms.

If you use casement windows, the window well must not block the window from opening.

Horizontal sliding windows work well for basements that have space for a long skinny window. To open these windows, you slide one sash to the side. Since you can only open one sash for an exit, these take up more space than casement windows.

Double and single-hung windows are the standard in most homes’ first, second, and third stories. They are a tall rectangle with two sashes. In a single hung window, the bottom sash pushes upward.

In a double-hung window, the bottom panels move upward and the top sash downward.

Since these windows are tall, they aren’t practical to use in a basement.

How Do You Open an Egress Window?

If you have a single or double-hung window, lift the bottom section upward. If you have a horizontal sliding window, push the opening section toward the side.

How Much Do Egress Windows Cost?

An egress window itself is not more expensive than an average window. The highest cost comes from digging a window well and creating a hole in the basement wall. For a brand new window install and excavation, the price is about $1,500 to $3,000.

If you’re replacing an egress window, expect to pay $200 – $950 per window, including material and installation.

Will an Egress Window Add Value to a Home?

To add basement bedrooms to your home, you must install egress windows. So while the extra bedroom can add value, the window itself won’t.

Why Do Egress Windows Leak?

A well-installed egress window shouldn’t leak. If your egress window leaks, one possible cause is a lack of drainage in the window well. If water builds up in the well, it can seep in through tiny cracks.

Another reason windows leak is age. If your window is over 20 years old, it might be time to replace it.

Egress Window vs. A Day-Lite Window

If you’re considering a Day-Lite window for your basement, it does not count as an egress window. In fact, it doesn’t count as a window at all.

Day-Lite windows are faux windows. They feature panels that look like windows and lights that mimic daylight. You can install one anywhere in your home by hanging it on the wall.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can an egress window be under a deck?

Every basement bedroom needs at least one egress window. The casement window is the most popular choice for a basement because it fully opens and takes up less space than other types. An egress window is the same as an escape window, and it must have a minimum opening height of 24 inches and width of 20 inches to meet safety codes.

Curtains can be used on an egress window, but they should be easy to move in case of an emergency.

To ensure safety, every bedroom or sleeping area must have an egress window. This can be challenging in basements, as installing tall windows is tricky due to them being below ground level.

If you’re adding bedrooms in your basement, you’ll need to select a location for the egress window, excavate the area, and install a window well. Ensure that the window meets all necessary requirements for occupants to escape during a fire.