Egress windows are not just an architectural feature — they are a crucial safety component for homes, especially in basement spaces and areas below ground level. These windows provide emergency exits, allowing occupants to escape quickly in dangerous situations, such as fires. But beyond safety, egress windows can improve natural light, enhance ventilation, and even add value to a home. In this comprehensive guide, we will explain what egress windows are, when they are needed, their regulatory requirements, the installation process, costs, and common mistakes to avoid.
An egress window is a window specifically designed to provide a means of escape from a room in the event of an emergency, such as a fire. These windows are commonly found in basements or bedrooms, where escape routes might otherwise be blocked. Unlike standard windows, which are primarily designed for ventilation or light, an egress window must meet specific size, operability, and accessibility criteria.
In Canada, egress windows are regulated by national and provincial building codes to ensure that they provide safe exits in an emergency. These codes are strict to ensure that the windows meet the necessary size and operation requirements. Below are the essential criteria that an egress window must meet according to most Canadian building codes:
Egress windows are required in specific locations within a house, typically in:
Installing an egress window is a detailed process that requires careful planning and professional expertise. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of how egress windows are installed.
Choosing the correct location is crucial. The egress window should be positioned to allow a clear and unobstructed escape route. It’s typically placed in basements or bedrooms, with careful consideration given to the room's layout and foundation.
The window selected for installation should meet the required size specifications and be easy to open and close. Casement or sliding windows are often chosen for their ability to open fully, providing easy access.
The installation of an egress window typically requires excavating around the house's foundation. This process involves cutting into the foundation to create an opening large enough to accommodate the window. A structural engineer or an experienced installer is required to assess the impact on the foundation and ensure the structure's integrity is maintained.
Once the opening is prepared, the window is installed and securely fastened to the frame. The window is sealed to prevent drafts and water infiltration. Proper insulation is also applied to ensure energy efficiency.
After installation, the area around the window is backfilled with gravel or soil to ensure proper drainage. Any interior finishing is completed to match the room's aesthetics, while also ensuring proper safety and operational functionality.
The cost of installing an egress window can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the type of window, the location of the installation, and the complexity of the excavation. Here’s a general breakdown of costs:
Tony Wong Project Manager at Canadian Choice Windows & Doors™
:
"Egress windows are not just a regulatory requirement — they are an investment in the safety of your home. Many homeowners overlook the importance of these windows until they face an emergency. Ensuring that you have properly installed egress windows can make all the difference in keeping your family safe. Working with a trusted professional guarantees that you meet all requirements and get the most value from your investment."
When the Jones family renovated their basement into a guest suite, they neglected to install an egress window. During a routine inspection, they were informed that the basement did not meet local safety codes. Concerned about the potential consequences, the family quickly contacted Canadian Choice Windows & Doors™ for a solution.
Within a week, an egress window was installed, not only ensuring compliance with the building code but also improving the natural light in the space. A year later, a fire broke out in the neighbourhood. Thankfully, the Jones family was able to evacuate their home through the new egress window, highlighting just how critical this feature is for safety.
Egress windows are essential for ensuring the safety of your home’s occupants and complying with building codes. Whether you’re upgrading a basement or adding a bedroom, egress windows provide both legal compliance and peace of mind. The installation process can be complex, but with the right guidance and professional expertise, you can be sure your window is installed correctly, providing a valuable safety feature that could save lives in an emergency.
For more information on egress windows or to schedule a consultation for installation, contact Canadian Choice Windows & Doors today.
Building codes require Egress windows to ensure that homes have a safe and accessible exit in case of an emergency. For rooms below ground level, like basements or bedrooms, having a second means of escape could be the difference between life and death. These windows meet safety standards set by national and provincial regulations, ensuring that homes have an escape route that can be easily accessed in a crisis.
The window must provide a minimum opening area of 5.7 square feet (0.53 m²). The height must be at least 24 inches (61 cm), and the width must be at least 20 inches (50 cm). Additionally, the bottom of the window opening must be no more than 44 inches (112 cm) from the floor to ensure accessibility.
No. Not all windows qualify as egress windows. Egress windows must meet specific size and operational requirements, including being easily operable without the need for tools or keys. Common types of windows that are often used as egress windows include casement windows, which can be fully opened, and sliding windows that also provide a wide opening.
Egress windows are typically required in bedrooms and basements. They are necessary for any room used as a living space, where people may be sleeping or spending a significant amount of time. In these rooms, an egress window provides an emergency exit in case other routes, such as doors, are blocked by smoke, fire, or debris.
The process involves selecting a location, selecting the right window, excavation, and framing. A professional installer may need to cut into the foundation of your home to create an opening of the appropriate size for the window. Proper sealing and insulation must be applied to ensure energy efficiency. Backfilling is also done around the window to prevent water damage and ensure adequate drainage.
The cost of installing an egress window typically ranges from $2,000 to $5,000 for a basic installation. More complex installations, including excavation and structural reinforcements, may cost more, up to $6,000 or higher. The cost depends on factors such as the window type, installation location, and the complexity of the excavation required.
Yes. In most cases, installing an egress window requires a permit. You will need to check with your local building department to ensure that you comply with all relevant codes and regulations. Failure to obtain the proper permits could result in fines or complications when selling your home.
If you are converting a basement into living space or if you have bedrooms in the basement or lower levels of your home, an egress window is likely required. You can consult with a professional window installer or a contractor to assess your home and ensure that you meet local building codes.
Yes! In addition to serving as an emergency exit, egress windows allow natural light into otherwise dark spaces like basements. They also improve ventilation, which can help prevent musty or damp air from accumulating in the room, improving indoor air quality.
Yes, but replacing a regular window with an egress window often involves significant modifications. In most cases, you’ll need to enlarge the window opening and modify the surrounding foundation. It's essential to consult with a professional to ensure the replacement meets all safety and building code requirements.
In some cases, an egress door might be an acceptable alternative, especially for homes with walkout basements. However, egress windows are generally the most common and cost-effective solution for providing an emergency exit in rooms that don't have direct access to the outside.
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