Basement Egress Windows

Q. I am interested in replacing a couple basement windows (the ones with the forms/frames poured into the concrete wall). They are the low quality, standard 31.75 X 16.75 size and are single pane sliding type. I don't need a high end product and have looked at American Craftsman series at a local home improvement store and was not too impressed with the quality. These are for a lower level bedroom, so meeting egress codes will be a requirement.

Can you recommend a brand and type? Any other suggestions about what to look for and what to look out for would be appreciated.

A. We have installed several compliant egress window systems and have learned a lot of valuable information. The main concern is that, depending on local codes, the typical basement window may meet egress size requirements but not the height off the floor requirement.

The main 4 items described in the 2006 IRC that will effect your window selection are:
Minimum height of 24”
Minimum width of 20”
Minimum of 5.7. square feet
Maximum interior sill height of 44” off the floor

In our experiences, the sill of a window as you describe is typically is 60”+ off the floor. I have attached the section of the IRC 2006 that addresses egress code below for reference, but be sure to verify the applicable code in your municipality. Often when we convert basement space into a finished space we need to remove an existing window, saw cut a larger opening and install a window that meets all the requirements.

This is a very specific code and can be somewhat overwhelming, so if you would like to have our knowledge and experience take care of this for you, please call the Mosby office at 314.909.1800.

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