Egress window installation provides a place to exit a room safely in case of emergency. An egress window may be required in a basement or renovated attic to be in compliance with local building codes. Whether you want to get more light, improve the safety of your home, or increase your home’s value, putting in an egress window could be the solution.
Installing an egress window can be a complicated project. Most homeowners don’t have the knowledge or the equipment to complete the process. Hiring a contractor to correct mistakes or reinstall the window could end up costing more than having it professionally done in the first place.
Benefits of an Egress Window
The first benefit of egress window installation is that it may be needed to provide a safe emergency exit to a member of your family. Egress windows may be required in new construction and are frequently needed when basements or attics are renovated.
Creating a new bedroom in your home includes ensuring that the occupant can get out of a window if needed.
Stay in Compliance
An egress window may be required by law. Installing one would keep you in compliance with local building codes. Not having a necessary emergency exit could also cause legal and financial trouble if you decide to sell your home.
Increase Home Value
Egress windows make a home safer and can increase the usable square footage of a home without building an addition. Buyers know they help increase energy efficiency because egress windows provide more natural light. They also help ventilate a home naturally. Having an egress window can make your home more desirable to a larger number of potential buyers.
Choosing an Egress Window
Several factors influence which type of egress window is best for your project. Your budget, building codes, and the climate in your region must all be considered. Before deciding on a specific style, take time to weigh these factors.
Building Codes
Professional egress window installers work within building code requirements every day. They already understand that local building codes limit the type, size, and location of egress windows. Before planning an entire design around a certain type of window, make sure you understand the requirements in your area.
Window Size
In addition to building code requirements, the size of the room dictates the minimum size of the egress window that is needed. Building codes are regularly updated. According to the 2024 International Residential Code, whether you are installing an egress window in a basement, habitable attic, or bedroom, it must be a minimum of 36 inches wide.
Accessibility
Accessibility is as important as size. An egress window doesn’t do any good if it can’t be accessed. The bottom of the window should be placed no higher than 44 inches from the floor in a basement. The window should be easy to operate without special tools, and the opening should be unobstructed.
Styles of Egress Windows
Once you understand the egress window requirements for your space, it’s time to select a window style. Keep in mind that the style you choose can greatly affect the cost for basement egress windows.
Casement Window
Casement windows are hinged on the side. They open to the outside like a door. Casement style is often chosen for rooms that need extra ventilation or natural light. They work well for egress because the crank mechanism of a casement window is easy to operate.
Hung Window
Hung windows are constructed from upper and lower sashes. Both single- and double-hung options are available. With a single-hung window, the upper sash is stationary, and the lower sash moves up and down to open or close. In double-hung models, both sashes can be moved vertically. You can move both panels up or down, or move either separately.
Double-hung windows allow for easy cleaning and are ideal for any placement that’s hard to reach from the outside. They also provide more options for adjusting the amount of airflow in the room.
Sliding Window
Sliding windows are similar to hung windows in that they are made of two panels. However, sliding windows open horizontally. They are also known as gliding windows. Sliders are customizable and can be made with multiple panels. Some sliding windows have more than one panel that can be opened.
Awning Window
Awning windows aren’t as common as other types. Typically, an awning window has only one panel, and it opens outward from the top of the frame. The look resembles a traditional awning that covers and protects the window. The open panel prevents rain and debris from getting into the house when the window is open, similar to an awning.
The Steps for Egress Window Basement Installations
There are several steps to the process of egress window installation. The first step is to obtain all necessary permits. Most municipalities require permits for cutting into a foundation wall. Other changes necessary for installation may also require permits. Starting work before permits have been granted could result in hefty fines.
Non-permitted home improvements could also cause complications later when you want to sell your home. Improper permitting and other mistakes can increase the cost to put in egress windows.
Excavation
For an egress window basement, you must start by excavating the area outside of the foundation where the window will be installed. You need a well that is at least 36 inches wide that extends at least 6 inches beyond the edge of the window on both sides. A layer of gravel should be added to the bottom of the well to ensure proper drainage.
Cut the Opening
Special training and equipment are needed to cut through a masonry wall. First, the opening must be marked to ensure it is the right size for the window and framing. A specialized concrete saw is used to slowly and methodically cut the opening. Keeping control of the saw is crucial to cut the right measurements and maintain structural integrity.
Frame the Window
Pressure-treated wood is installed into the opening to create a rough frame. If the frame is not level, square, and plumb, the egress window will not fit correctly. Once placement is confirmed, construction adhesive and concrete anchors are required to secure the frame.
Installation
The exact method of installation depends on the style and size of the egress window you’ve chosen. Once the window is level and plumb, it’s time to secure the entire window to the frame with fasteners. A waterproof sealant must then be applied to prevent leaks.
Finish Work
An egress window installation isn’t complete until the exterior and interior trim have been applied and all of the seams have been caulked. If applicable, installing the window well is the last step. A cover may also be added to the window to increase safety and protect the window from debris.
Why Your Egress Window Installation Company Matters
Before searching the internet for “egress window installation near me,” keep in mind that not every company that offers home renovation services has the expertise needed to complete your project correctly. A poorly installed egress window can cause water damage inside your home, foundation damage, rotting window frames, and mold growth.
Some projects are ideal for a “jack of all trades” contractor, but installing an egress window in basements is not one of them. This job requires specialized skills, experience, and the proper equipment.
Before deciding on a contractor, ask these questions:
- Are permits required, and if so, are their costs required in your quote?
- How much time do you estimate it will take to complete my project?
- Which style of egress window do you recommend and why?
- Do you have a portfolio of work I can look at?
- Will you clean up all the construction debris and remove it when the job is done?
- Do you guarantee your work?
- Do you have a rating with the Better Business Bureau?
A correctly installed egress window provides many benefits to your home’s value and comfort. It matters which company you choose to do the installation, because you want the job done right, on time, and at a fair price.
Call Your Window Solutions for Egress Window Installation
Your Window Solutions got its start because founder Travis Williams was tired of seeing homeowners treated with dishonesty and dehumanizing sales tactics. Since 2014, Your Window Solutions has been proudly serving Illinois communities to help people lower their energy bills, enjoy a comfortable home, and take pride in the way their house looks and functions.
Specializing in window and door installation means our team understands the challenges and benefits of egress window installation. Our work is guaranteed, and we have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. We are proud to share our portfolio and happy to take the time to answer your questions about installing new windows, doors, or siding. Call Your Window Solutions today.
