Basement Egress Window Can Be Lifesaving Necessity

Planning to use part of a basement for extra living space, may require the installation of a basement egress window, allowing for emergency exit in case of fire or other emergency. In many localities, adding a bedroom in the basement requires a basement egress window of specific size as well as an exterior window well to allow for quick and easy emergency evacuation from the basement room.

In many communities, it does not matter what a room in the basement is referred to on the plans, if it meets a certain size and has a closet, most inspectors call it a bedroom and will require the installation of a basement egress window. Before beginning the renovation of an older basement, it is best to check with local code officials to determine if a basement egress window is mandated and, if so, size specifications so it can be done right the first time.

Without the necessary skill and equipment, the homeowner may have to hire someone to install a basement egress window, but installation should not take more than a day or two, depending on the position of the window and the surrounding grade. If the spot for the window is below the grade, it will have to be dug out to make room for a window well, essentially creating a space from inside the basement, through the window, up the well and leading to safety.

Size Requirements For Obvious Reasons

Different communities may have different size requirement for a basement egress window, but the other than minimum opening size, the size of the person who will likely be in the basement room should also be a factor in choosing the opening size. Many communities specify at least six-square-feet of opening, which is the size with the window opened, not the entire size. This is the size of the opening a person will have to fit through in case of fire.

The bottom of the window is typically mandated to be no more than 44-inches from the ground and the window well will also have minimum size specifications, usually about 36-inches, but it could be more in some communities. The height of the window well at the basement egress window should also be no more than 44-inches from the bottom to the top. Depending on the community if the well is deeper it may be acceptable to place a step at the bottom of the well.

When planning a room in the basement to be used as bedroom or for another purpose, it may be prudent to consider installing a basement egress window simply for the safety factor.

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