If you’re a homeowner, especially one with a basement living area or bedroom, you’ve got to have an egress window. But what exactly are they, and why does every builder insist on them? Well egress windows are an important safety feature and do have some legalities surrounding them that you need to abide by.
But do not worry; this is your friendly roadmap to your egress window options that keep up with all the codes.
Contents
What Are Egress Windows?
Egress windows provide an exit in case of emergencies in rooms in basements and below-grade living spaces. Suppose a fire above blocks your basement door, or there is a break-in, or for whatever other reason you might get trapped inside. Regular basement windows are small and high up on the wall, barely sufficient for letting in air, much less allowing you to exit.
Egress windows are meant to be your secondary way out in such situations. Also, for emergency responders to come in if necessary.
They’re not just good for emergencies, though—egress windows also allow natural light, enhance ventilation, and can make your basement feel more like a livable space rather than a dark, cramped area.
What Are The Legal Requirements For Egress Window?
The Egress windows must meet certain requirements set by the International Residential Code (IRC) and, at times, OSHA regulations to fulfil safety value. Here’s the lowdown:
- Minimum opening area: 5.7 square feet (some codes permit 5.0 sq. ft. for ground-floor windows)
- Minimum opening height: 24 inches
- Minimum opening width: 20 inches
- Maximum sill height: No more than 44 inches from the floor
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The code also requires the opening mechanism to be easy to operate with no special tools or keys and allowing direct access outside (not to another room). There must also be an egress window well if it’s below grade level.
Local codes can sometimes be more demanding than the IRC, so be sure to call your local authorities to ensure you’re in compliance with everything.
Your 4 Egress Window Options Recommended by Experts
Now that you understand the “why” and the “what” part, let’s look at the various egress window options.
1. Casement Egress Windows (in/out swing)
Casement windows are like doors and swing open on hinges, either inward or outward. You typically operate a casement window using a crank handle.
Because the entire sash swings out of the way, casement windows offer a very large clear opening when fully opened. This often makes it easier to meet the minimum size requirements.
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| Pros | Cons |
| Largest clear opening for easy escape | Requires unobstructed space outside to open fully |
| Great ventilation and airflow | More expensive than other options |
| Works well in narrow spaces |
2. Sliding Egress Windows
Sliding windows move horizontally along a track—one section sliding past the other to create an opening. Which means they need wider wall space. However, sliding designs are still preferred for ease of use.
If you’re going for these for your egress, make sure it has easy-release latches that allow for quick and effortless opening.
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| Pros | Cons |
| Great for wide openings | May not provide as large an opening as casement windows |
| Durable with fewer mechanical parts | Requires regular track cleaning for smooth operation |
3. Single-Hung Egress Windows
Single-hung windows also feature two sashes, but only the lower one moves up and down. Although they are traditional in style and very popular, it’s not always simple to achieve opening codes using them. You might end up with a very tall (48 inches +) window to meet standards.
If you are thinking of this type of window for egress, ensure that it has a crank that enables the sash to remain open without holding.
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| Pros | Cons |
| Works well with various home styles | Only one sash opens at a time, reducing exit space |
| Allows flexible ventilation | Can be drafty |
4. Awning Egress Window
The awning window sash opens outward from the bottom, creating a slop at the top similar to an awning. The operation is typically a crank handle or a push-out mechanism. They’re generally put above the window well and not on the wall directly due to clearing requirements.
Also, think about the angle at which the window opens and whether it provides a comfortable and unobstructed path for someone to climb through when you install it. Still, you might need a larger awning window to meet the egress standards compared to other types.
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| Pros | Cons |
| Provides ventilation even during rain | May not meet egress requirements in all locations |
| Stylish and modern | Awning can obstruct exit in some cases |
What is an Egress Window Well?
If you install a window below grade level, you’ll require an egress well outside where the window will open. An egress well is simply a semi-circle or rectangle cleared area lined with galvanized steel, plastic, or masonry to stay sturdy.
An egress well serves several other purposes beyond allowing you out, including:
- Keeping dirt, leaves, and water from clogging the window
- Giving opening area for awning-type windows
- To enable improved ventilation and increased light indoors..
The well should be spacious enough to enable one to walk through it comfortably. It can also have additional features such as incorporated steps or ladders that will make it easier to climb out to the ground.
Conclusion
Egress windows are a lifesaving necessity. If you have a living space below ground level, you must not slack on putting one in your house. Hopefully, you can select from the egress window options provided above; talk to your builder and install one that is code compliant.
If you need expert advice on windows and a reliable manufacturer, Mannlee is here to help! Contact us today for all types of window and door solutions made with the best quality and highest standards.
