Most basement windows are added to bring light and ventilation into an otherwise dark and damp area of your home. Because most basement windows are below grade, window wells are installed to prevent water from leaking through. There is generally a drainage system or gravel in place to help with this task. Standard window wells are available in a variety of shapes and sizes and may be constructed from two materials: corrugated steel or plastic.
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Most basement windows are added to bring light and ventilation into an otherwise dark and damp area of your home. Because most basement windows are below grade, window wells are installed to prevent water from leaking through. There is generally a drainage system or gravel in place to help with this task. Standard window wells are available in a variety of shapes and sizes and may be constructed from two materials: corrugated steel or plastic.
Egress Window Wells
If you are looking for a way to add more space to your home but don't want to go through an expensive remodel, consider finishing your basement. Egress window well systems are often required by code for any finished living space, and adding one will ensure that you will be able to enjoy your basement more than ever before. In addition to making sure your basement receives natural light and is well ventilated, it will keep you and your loved ones safe in the event of an emergency.
IRC Requirements for Egress
While codes vary based on the city and state you live in, all egress windows must comply with four International Residential Code (IRC) criteria:
&#; Minimum width of opening: 20 inches
&#; Minimum height of opening: 24 inches
&#; Minimum net clear opening: 5.7 square feet (5.0 square feet for ground floor)
&#; Maximum sill height above floor: 44 inches
In addition, the window opening must be operational from the inside without the use of keys or tools. Bars, grilles, and grates may be installed over the windows, but they must also be operational without tools or keys and still allow the minimum clear opening of 5.7 square feet.
When egress window systems are installed in the basement, there are also certain requirements for the well surrounding the window. Window wells must fulfill the following requirements:
&#; Allow the rescue window to be fully opened
&#; Provide 9.0 square feet of floor area with a minimum dimension of 36 inches in width and length
&#; Contain a permanently-affixed ladder or steps for climbing out if the window well depth exceeds 44 inches
Before installing your new egress window system, be sure to check with your city offices to learn about the specific code requirements in your area.
Essential Parts of an Egress System
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Cover:
A window well cover is necessary for eliminating the risk of family, friends, or pets falling into the large opening the window well presents. Window well covers can be lifted from below, allowing easy escape in case of emergency.
Window Well:
In order to exit your home from a basement window, or to accommodate rescue personnel, your egress window well needs to be large enough to admit a person of any size. In order to meet IRC requirements, it must provide 9 square feet of 'floor area.'
Ladder:
A permanent ladder or stairwell must be present if the window well is 44 inches or more below ground. The ladder must be at lease 12 inches wide and project no less than 3 inches from the window well. It can't be obstructed by the open window or encroach on the required window well dimensions by more than 6 inches.
Window:
Egress windows typically swing inward or easily slide out of the way. If a screen is present, it can be removed from the inside, making escape quick and simple.
Egress Window Well Materials
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