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Basement Egress Windows

The days are gone when basement windows could be little more than small, barely noticeable glass rectangles tucked into a basement wall beneath the siding. Modern homeowners realize that the creative shapes and variations of glazing add both to appearance and value of the home. In addition, modern codes require "egress" windows in the basement along with other parts of the home if any "living" is to be done in the basement. "Egress" simply means the window is large enough to allow a person to escape in the event of a fire.
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The International Residence Code stipulates that egress windows have a minimum width of 24 inches and a minimum height of 20 inches. If your house was built to code, it will be easy to find standardized replacement windows for your basement.

What if you have an older house that was not built to code? Even then, cutting the proper size hole for the larger window is not that difficult. Furthermore, if you plan to have a bedroom in the basement, regulations will require at least one egress window. Note that regardless of what you call it, if you have a room with a closet, it will be classed as a bedroom and will require the installation of the egress window. The result will be well worth the investment—adding light and air to the basement and increasing the resale value of your home with the additional legal bedroom in the basement.

In addition to the window, it may be necessary to build a window well surrounded by a retaining wall on the outside of the basement. You can build the well yourself or purchase a complete snap-together kit. The total cost if you hire a contractor to come in and do it for you could range from $2400 to $3000. If you can round up a few friends and do it yourself, you will have a couple of days work and about $500 in costs.

Along with size, basement egress windows have some additional requirements. For instance, they must be operable from the inside without tools or keys. Casement windows are usually the best because they have side hinges and wide openings which allow a person to pass through easily. Double hung windows are acceptable, but they must be larger than you may want in your basement since half the window is still covered with glass when the window is open. Awning type windows are not as suitable since they are hinged at the bottom, requiring a person to climb over the glass to get out.

Once you have determined which type of window will best suit your needs, you will still have a wide variety of frames and glazing styles available. You can choose vinyl, wood, aluminum, or a combination, and in a variety of colors. Your window can be clear, frosted, or even colored glass and will be double glazed for heat and cooling efficiency.

Start here to find the egress replacement window suitable for your house. You'll be glad you did!

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