In today’s world, there is modernization and innovation in every aspect of our lives. Even in emergencies, we have a particular type of window called the egress window. Previously, all these special arrangements in houses were not available; however, we have come out with several innovations with the passage of time. This egress window is a type of window you need in your home in case of an emergency.
In fact, the literal of the term is “to emerge” or “a path out.”Therefore, make sure you install it in your basement and all the bedrooms as well. This is essential because it can be an exit for you and your family members. However, it should be constructed so that it meets the specific requirements as regulated by law and the IRC or International Residential Code.
So would you like to know about the egress window in detail? Stay with us until the end, as we will share some of the significant details regarding these special types of windows.
Table of Contents
Have a look at what an Egress Window is?
Since you are reading this article, it is evident that you want to know more about what an egress window is. Well, you are at the right place as we will share with you all the relevant details regarding this emergency window.
So are you remodeling your basement? If your answer is Yes, make sure that you know that you may need to put in larger and more energy-efficient windows. These egress windows are actually large openings that offer a secondary exit in an emergency. In fact, they can also add more natural light and make your basement more inviting.
Moreover, the basement bedrooms and living spaces must have these egress windows to ensure that they serve as peace of mind in case of a house fire or other emergencies.
What are the Requirements for Egress Windows?
Many of our readers are probably wondering about the requirements for egress windows. In fact, you need to make sure that the mason constructs the window according to the particular size that the IRC mandates. Since they allow for a quick exit in an emergency, the basement windows must have:
- Firstly, it should have an opening width of at least 20 inches.
- Next, the opening height should be at least 24 inches.
- It should have a net clear opening of at least 821 square inches—or 5.7 square feet.
- Also, it must be no more than 44 inches off the floor.
Also read: When Hiring Basement Waterproofing Contractor Ask These Questions
What are the Different Types of Egress Windows?
By now, you must have understood why we need egress windows in our homes, right? They also need to meet the above requirements if they are to serve the purpose. Here are some of the most common types of egress windows that you can install in your homes as per the space in your basement and living room:
1. Basement Egress Windows with a Well
Mostly the houses in the United States, the window well surrounds the basement window. So if they meet the requirements of adequate width, height, and square footage, you can easily install them in your home. However, they have some other specifications as well:
As far as the opening is concerned, it needs to allow the full opening in the case of an emergency. At the same time, the window well area should be at least nine sq. ft. of the floor area of your window well. You might have to place steps or a ladder when the depth of the well exceeds 44 inches. Also, make sure the window has a cover to protect the area from debris and rain.
2. Skylight Egress Window
Many people believe that skylight windows are not a proper option for an egress window. However, you can use it if it is of the appropriate size and installed within 44 inches of the floor.
So if you choose a skylight window that opens to the side, it can be both stylish and an egress window simultaneously. Sounds cool, right? Why not construct it in your home?
3. Single-Hung Egress Window
This is another of the egress windows that you can opt for in your home. It is, in fact, an ideal option for ventilation of your basement. The handle of this window is positioned low on the frame. It is this feature that makes opening the window pretty much easier even for children.
4. Double-Hung Egress Window
As the name suggests, this window needs to be big enough to serve its purpose. The problem here is that the still glass of this type of window takes up half of the opening. So you require a large window to achieve the required size, which can be a bit impractical.
Therefore, if you feel that this kind of window is appropriate for your home, make sure you install it.
5. Casement Egress Windows
Needless to say, these windows can actually be an excellent option as an emergency window if they meet all the requirements. One of the reasons people choose this type of window is that the casement creates one single opening you can use to climb out when needed.
6. Awning Egress Window
Some people prefer using them as egress windows. However, here you need to open it from the bottom, so this might not be a suitable solution for the basement. Therefore, if you are constructing it at your home, make sure you do it at an appropriate place. Only then will it serve its purpose during emergencies.
Ending Note
So as we conclude, we can say that it might seem to you at first glance that constructing an egress window is a very difficult task; however, it is not so. You can ask all those families who already have it in their homes and get an idea regarding the specifications. It is highly essential in cases of emergencies. In fact, with them in your rooms, you can sleep peacefully in your house. So it might cost you a bit; however, it is worth your money.
