Important Facts You Should Know About Egress Windows
The International Residential Code (IRC) makes it necessary for basements and spaces that are used as sleeping rooms below the fourth story of a residential building to have not less than one opening that can be used for emergency escape and rescue. This opening is referred to as an egress window. This article provides the facts that you should know about egress windows.
What is an egress window?
As noted above, an egress window in an opening that provides an escape route in case of an emergency in a building. 
The emergency could be a flood, a fire or any other type of disaster. When you have egress windows installed on your building in areas such as the basement or sleeping rooms, you can use these openings to safely exit in case of an emergency.
Egress windows also provide an entry and exit route that can be used by responders during rescue operations in the event of a disaster.
What are the benefits of egress windows?
Egress windows are a desirable feature in a home because of their benefits. These benefits are as follows:
- Safety: Egress windows are designed to facilitate a safe escape from a building. They have design specifications that ensure that this objective is achieved.
- Natural light and ventilation: Because egress windows are large, they allow natural light to enter spaces that would otherwise be dark, such as basements. They also allow fresh air into indoor spaces like basements, thus preventing unpleasant smells.
- Added space: Egress windows add value to your home by making it possible for you to have more usable space. For instance, a safe and well-ventilated basement will be useful in many ways.
- Compliance with building codes: Egress windows are part of the building requirements outlined by IRC and other regulatory bodies to enhance the safety of homes.
- Beauty: Without doubt, well-designed egress windows have an aesthetic appeal and will make your house look more attractive.
Specifications of egress windows
Egress windows are required to have the following specifications:
- A minimum opening width of 20”
- Opening height: at least 24”
- Opening area: a minimum of 5.7 sq. ft.
- The window sill of an egress window cannot be higher than 44” above the floor.
In order to enjoy the benefits of egress windows and ensure that your home meets the building requirements, you should have the windows installed by a professional masonry company.
Rob VanSuilichem
Serving Michigan homeowners for over 32 years, Everdry is one of the Nation’s largest and most experienced waterproofer.
Locally owned, operated and staffed, Everdry professionals take a personal one-on-one approach in educating homeowners so they truly understand all their options for creating a safe, dry, healthy and usable space in their basements.
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The aforementioned memberships are important because we benefit from the constant exchange of information and knowledge. We are updated on everything from installation techniques, to customer service improvements. You benefit in the knowledge that these third party inspection agencies require us to meet stringent requirements to remain members in good standing.
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