In case of an emergency like a fire there needs to be an escape route. Many basements in Lewiston Idaho have windows in the bedroom but most are too small and don’t meet the building code requirements. An egress window is large enough for an adult to climb in or out of. Each state is different but in Idaho the entire openable area must be 5.7 square feet.
While typically found in basements, windows installed in “every sleeping room” (as defined by the International Residential Code (IRC) are categorized as egress windows. Apart from being a building requirement, there are many reasons why your home should have egress windows.
The number one advantage to installing an egress window is safety and the second advantage is an egress window allows more light into the room. The third advantage is – it allows the homeowner to legally use the room as bedroom. Thus, turning your two-bedroom home for example into a three-bedroom, which adds value to your home, if you ever wish to sell it.
Some Cons to Adding an Egress Window
Besides the budgetary concerns, there really isn’t a reason not to install egress windows. From an investment/return standpoint it’s so substantial that most homeowners on a tight budget will realize the upside pretty quickly. About the only “downside” we see at Walton’s Tint and Window is the need to install egress windows with local building codes in mind, and to make sure the installation is done right (especially, where moisture can be an issue). Most building codes require a 5.7 square foot opening, and a window that is no more than 44″ off the floor. But keep in mind that codes vary from place to place, so be sure that you and your contractor knows what the specific requirements are for your municipality. If the building inspector finds that your egress window comes up short in any way, it’s back to the drawing board.
Moisture can be a problem in basement windows, especially here in Lewiston Idaho or Clarkston Washington, where we get a lot of rain and snow in the winter months.
To avoid this problem, make sure your window is dug to the proper depth below the window, and take extra measures, such as installing a drainage-systems and make sure your gutter system drains away from your home and egress window opening.
Egress windows can be a big headache to install and should be attempted by the homeowner. At Walton’s Tint and Window, we specialize in egress window installations and would love the opportunity to provide you with free in-home estimate.
You may use this form to get a quote right away.
Give us a call today at: (208) 816-4500
