A basement egress window is a means of entry/exit from the underground level of your home or business. It must be large enough (as defined by local building codes) to allow a firefighter – in all their gear – entry and exit through this window. An egress window is usually paired with an egress well and a window well drain with an attached or incorporated ladder for quick and easy escape.
Where Does the egress window go?
By law, an egress window is required in any bedroom or sleeping area located in the basement of any structure. However, if you are only using the space for entertainment or an office, you technically do not need to install an egress window, but it’s still a good idea to get one installed. Providing your family with a safe escape route from the basement, in case of fire or other emergency, is an important safely improvement that you should consider for your home.
What size does the basement egress window need to be?
These are by and large the standard requirements as set forth in the National Building Code. There may be additional regulations per your local municipality.
- Minimum width of 20 inches
- Minimum height of 24 inches
- Minimum NCP (net clear opening which is the actual opening a person must crawl) of 5.7 square feet
- Maximum sill height of 44 inches
- Window-well pit floor space with minimum dimensions of 36″x 36″ with a minimum floor space of 9sf.
- The window-well needs a permanent ladder or steps if the window well pit depth is greater than 44 inches.
- The window has to be able to be operated from inside without tools. Any obstructions like grates or bars are not allowed. The window or other opening must be operational from the inside without keys or tools.
- The ladder needs to be 12″ wide and must project no less than 3″ from the window well.
Contact the professionals at Toledo Basement Repair for a free inspection and estimate. (419) 297-6138. We are up to date with the local building codes in our area and are ready to install an egress window in your home. It’s the best thing you can do to keep your family safe while enjoying your home’s basement living space.
Kevin Oberhouse was raised in Toledo with 7 siblings. Dawn and Kevin have four kids.
The Oberhouse family lives in the house Kevin built when with his first crew. Kevin’s parents invited more than 100 foster children into their home throughout his life. Kevin believes this part of his life really helped to build empathy for others.
Kevin has a degree in civil engineering and went on to get an MBA as well as multiple other certifications in structural systems, egress systems, air quality, and commercial and residential roofing, among many others.
Toledo Basement Repairs promises to treat you and your project with respect and our best professional judgment. There is plenty of work out there and Toledo Basement Repair will not push you into a system that you do not fully understand or feel comfortable with.
