Height of Egress Windows in Basement
Debra W
2 years ago
Featured Answer
Sort by:Oldest
Comments (8)
JJ
2 years agolast modified: 2 years agoDebra W
2 years agoRelated Discussions
Egress Basement Windows
Comments (21)There are many houses in my neighborhood with lookout windows. We purchased our lot before selecting a builder, but the person who showed us the lot told us we would be able to build a house with lookout windows. When we started talking to builders, it became clear that lookout windows were not an option. I was very disappointed that our windows would all be below grade with window wells, but the lot was still great for us. We ended up with larger than standard windows - 20" instead of 16"??? I can't remember exactly. We also added a larger egress window so that we can add a bedroom when we finish our basement. Lookout windows are definitely more desirable. I would expect some type of compensation if you had agreed to that in the plans. However, for us it was certainly not a deal breaker. I hope you can find a resolution....See MoreWindow Egress.. 2nd story ..height from floor to window sill
Comments (8)I believe your building code is taken from the 2012 IRC. You should verify that with the building department. If that is the correct code and has not been amended, the applicable section is not Means of Egress (R311) but Emergency Escape and Rescue Openings (R310). One of these escape openings must be located in each sleeping room on all floors including habitable attics and basements. There are other requirements for basements. When the escape opening is a window, the sill height must be no more than 44 inches above the floor. The minimum net clear opening is 5.7 s.f. except on the ground floor where it must be 5 s.f. The minimum opening height is 24" and the minimum width is 20 inches. Tempered glass would be required if the window glass was within a certain distance of a door or the floor....See MoreEgress window for playroom in basement?
Comments (2)AFAIK, egress windows are required for sleeping rooms. Not for rec rooms, etc. Call your city inspections department - they will tell you....See MoreIdeas needed: Egress basement window(s) for 1929 brick home
Comments (1)I imagine that the expense of the grading, concrete, well, etc. will amount to a project of some significance. At that point, the window should only be a very fractional portion of the project/labor totals. If there is a good match to the profile in vinyl, that should be fine, but I can't imagine a different product really moving the needle much on the total price....See MoreJJ
2 years ago
WestCoast Hopeful
2 years agochispa
2 years agolast modified: 2 years ago
3onthetree
2 years agodan1888
2 years ago
Related Stories
WINDOWSThese Windows Let In Light at Floor Height
Low-set windows may look unusual, but they can be a great way to protect your privacy while letting in daylight
Full Story
BASEMENTSBasement of the Week: Clever Details Update a Below-Ground Lounge
Lower-level design reaches new heights with rearranged ductwork, lighting, a new ceiling and modern styling
Full Story
REMODELING GUIDESCharming Window Style Hinges on Hoppers
Hinged on the bottom and opening at the top, hopper windows are a great choice for bathrooms, basements and more
Full Story
REMODELING GUIDESKnow Your House: The Steps in Finishing a Basement
Learn what it takes to finish a basement before you consider converting it into a playroom, office, guest room or gym
Full Story
BASEMENTSBasement of the Week: From Dumping Ground to Family Hangout
With a lounge, home office and playroom, everyone's covered in this renovated Seattle basement
Full Story
BASEMENTSBasement of the Week: Tall-Order Design for a Lower-Level Lounge
High ceilings and other custom-tailored features in this new-build Wisconsin basement put the tall homeowners in a good headspace
Full Story
BASEMENTSRoom of the Day: Swank Basement Redo for a 100-Year-Old Row House
A downtown Knoxville basement goes from low-ceilinged cave to welcoming guest retreat
Full Story
BASEMENTSThe 20 Most Popular Basement Photos of 2015
Designers rise to the challenges presented by subterranean spaces
Full Story
TRENDING NOWThe 10 Most Popular Basements of 2019
Pool tables, well-equipped bars, smart built-ins and big TVs were a hit with Houzz users this year
Full Story
LIGHTINGHow to Get Your Basement Lighting Right
Give your basement a top-notch lighting system with layers of pendants, cans, sconces and more
Full Story
Mark Bischak, Architect