Everything You Need to Know About Egress Windows: The Ultimate Guide
If you’re a homeowner, then you know that there are a few things that are absolutely essential for your safety and security. One of these is an egress window. An egress window is a window that’s large enough to provide an escape route in the event of a fire or other emergency. If you don’t have one of these windows in your home, then you could be putting yourself and your family at risk. In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about egress windows, including what they are, why they’re important, and how to choose the right one for your home.
Table of Contents
Understanding The Idea Behind Egress Windows:
Egress windows first came into play after homeowners realized a unique problem. The home didn’t have something that could classify as an escape route. In the past, houses were only equipped with small windows, making it difficult to escape during an emergency. And so, builders and homeowners alike came together to find a solution- thus, egress windows were born.
What Is An Egress Window?
An egress window is a large enough window for a person to fit through easily and safely. For a window to be considered an “egress” window, it must meet certain size requirements set forth by the International Residential Code (IRC).
These requirements state that:
-An egress opening must have a minimum width of 20 inches
-An egress opening must have a minimum height of 24 inches
-The bottom of the opening must be no more than 44 inches above the floor
-The net clear openable area of the window must be at least five square feet.
Why Are Egress Windows Important?
Egress windows are important because they provide a means of escape in an emergency, such as a fire. If you don’t have an egress window in your home, then you could be putting yourself and your family at risk. In addition to providing an escape route, egress windows allow for natural light and ventilation. This is especially important if you live in a small space, such as an apartment or condo.
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How To Choose The Right Egress Window For Your Home:
When choosing an egress window for your home, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind. First, you’ll need to ensure that the window meets all the size requirements set forth by the IRC. Second, you’ll need to decide which type of window is right for your home. There are two main types of egress windows: casement and sliding. Casement windows are hinged on one side and open outward while sliding windows open horizontally. You’ll also need to decide what material you want your window to be made from. The most common materials for egress windows are wood, vinyl, and aluminum.
The advantage of using casement windows is that they’re easy to clean and provide a clear view. The disadvantage is that they can be difficult to open if there’s furniture in the way. Sliding windows, on the other hand, are easier to open but can be more difficult to clean.
Understanding The Process Behind Installing Egress Windows:
Installing an egress window is a relatively simple process. First, you’ll need to remove the old window and any trim around it. Next, you’ll need to measure the opening and cut a hole for the new window. Once the hole is cut, you’ll need to install the new window and add any trim around it. But just because it’s easy doesn’t mean you can do it on your own.
When installing an egress window, it’s important to hire a professional. This is because egress windows must meet certain size and height requirements to be safe. If you don’t install the window correctly, then you could be putting yourself and your family at risk. Hiring a professional is also important because they know how to seal the window properly. This is important because egress windows must have a weather-tight seal to keep water and air from coming into your home.
When installing egress windows, pay proper attention to:
-The size of the window
-The type of window
-The material the window is made from
-How the window is sealed
The cost of installing an egress window:
The cost of installing an egress window will vary depending on a few factors, such as the size of the window, the type of window, and the material the window is made from. But in general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2000 for the entire project.
If you’re thinking about adding an egress window to your home, then be sure to contact a professional for more information. They will be able to help you choose the right window for your home and budget. And they’ll also be able to walk you through the installation process so that you can rest assured knowing that your new egress window is installed correctly and safely.
Egress windows are an important part of any home. They provide a means of escape in an emergency and allow for natural light and ventilation. When choosing an egress window for your home, it’s important to keep in mind the size, type, and material. It’s also important to hire a professional to install the window correctly.