Egress windows are required to be installed in every bedroom within your home and it doesn’t matter if it’s on the 1st or 2nd floor, you need to have one. An Egress window serves as an emergency exit from the basement as well as an entry for firefighters and emergency medical personnel. The size and shape of this window are governed by state and local law as well as international building code guidelines. Most state building codes require them. Egress windows should also be installed in basements that are to be considered a living space, bedrooms or suites as a quick and safe exit in an emergency. If you’re remodeling take the opportunity to go over the building code in your area. Brewer Contracting can help you, and explain to you the requirements. If you’re building a brand new home, it’s an important point you’ll need to discuss with your building contractor as well.
In general, an Egress window:
- Is not higher than 44 inches above the floor.
- Has an opening of at least 5.7 square feet.
- Has a window well with a horizontal projection of at least 36 inches if below ground level.
- Has a permanently attached ladder if the window well is deeper than 44 inches.
- Can be opened from the inside without keys or special tools, even if bars or grates are installed.
Fortunately, it isn’t an expensive investment. While some may feel that they can try it themselves to save a few bucks, it may be a better idea to have a professional basement renovation specialist do it for you to be sure that all of the code requirements are addressed and that the installation is proper.
There are many options available for you to chose from so the added egress window will not only add safety, but also add additional light and enhance the look of your new living space.
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