Egress Windows Chicago: Basement Installation
Many basement windows are ugly, rusty, leaky and do not open or close properly. And these windows are frequently installed in window wells, which can also pose a challenge in keeping a basement dry. Ground water is naturally attracted to the window well area and no matter how much landscaping you do to keep water away, once the ground becomes saturated, water will accumulate in the window well. Window wells are necessary when egress windows are installed below ground level, and proper drainage around the foundation is crucial to prevent water issues. This will inevitably lead to water entering your basement through your old leaky windows.
You may find yourself asking why are egress windows important and the most important reason is these windows let in a lot of natural light during the day and provide an emergency exit location. Egress windows are required in basements to meet safety and building code requirements for emergency escape and rescue openings.
If you have a finished basement or are considering our basement pre-finishing, this means that you can use the sunlight instead of turning on a lot of lights and using a lot of electricity. Egress windows are essential for converting basements into habitable spaces such as bedrooms or living areas, as they provide the necessary emergency escape route and meet legal standards. Also, these windows can spruce up this area below your home when they have a modern frame and a tight seal that doesn’t allow moisture to enter, preventing the need for a larger waterproofing system to be installed.
When installing an egress window, cutting into the wall must be done carefully to maintain the structural integrity of the foundation. Egress window requirements in Chicago include specific minimum width and sill height measurements to ensure accessibility and safety.
Modern egress windows also offer enhanced security features that help keep your home safe.
Introduction to Basement Egress
Basement egress is all about ensuring a safe and reliable way to exit your basement in case of an emergency. Egress window installation is a key component of basement egress, providing not only a required emergency escape route but also allowing natural light to brighten your living space. Installing egress windows transforms a basement from a dark, potentially unsafe area into a comfortable, code-compliant living space. According to the International Residential Code (IRC) and local building codes in Chicago, egress windows must meet specific requirements, such as a minimum net clear opening, to ensure safety and accessibility. Whether you have a finished basement or are planning to create one, proper egress window installation is essential for both safety and comfort, making your basement a true extension of your home.
Common Basement Window Problems
When we talk to customers about the problems they are having with their basement egress windows, there are only a couple of different possibilities due to the inherent simplicity of the product. Window replacement or egress window replacement may be necessary if your current windows are outdated, damaged, or do not meet current safety standards.
If you notice drafts or leaks, it may be a sign that your windows are no longer energy efficient or have deteriorated over time. Professional replacement services can ensure your new windows are installed to meet all code requirements and improve energy efficiency.
Egress windows are especially important in sleeping rooms located in the basement, as they provide a required emergency escape route and help your home comply with safety regulations.
Windows are Drafty or Do not Let in Light
If the windows in your basement are the originals that the home was built with, there is a good chance they have gotten stained and dirty over the years and they no longer let the light in as well as they should. Over time, the seals can also break down and this can cause them to be drafty which allows your warm or cool air to escape which can increase your utility bills. This also makes it harder to ensure the basement humidity levels stay at the correct level which can make your dehumidifier work harder.
The only cost effective way to solve this problem is to install new egress windows made with better glass that won’t stain and have better seals to keep the air from getting around them. Sliding windows are a popular style for basement egress windows, offering both functionality and modern aesthetics. Egress windows are available in a variety of styles to match your home’s design. When selecting new egress windows, it’s important to ensure they meet the minimum width requirements specified by local building codes.
Water Leaks in Around Windows
Cheap windows were not designed with energy efficiency in mind. Eventually they will lose the ability to seal and may start letting in moisture, humidity and outdoor pollutants, which will affect the air quality in your home and your monthly utility bills. They may even allow water to start leaking in, which typically occurs when water accumulates in the window well because they either have no drain, or they become clogged with leaves and debris, causing water to remain in the well and proceed to enter the basement. If the drain is clogged, the entire window well can fill up with water, and eventually, the pressure of the water can break the window and cause water damage in your basement.
There are really only two solutions to this problem, one is to install new egress windows with better seals that will not leak. The other is to install window wells that use drains to keep water away from the windows.
Chicago Codes and Regulations
When it comes to egress window installation in Chicago, homeowners must adhere to strict local building codes to ensure safety and compliance. The Chicago Building Code specifies that all basement egress windows must have a minimum opening area of 5.7 square feet and a minimum height of 24 inches to provide adequate escape routes. Additionally, every egress window must be paired with a window well and a proper drainage system to prevent water from accumulating around the window, which could lead to leaks or flooding. Securing the necessary permits and following all chicago codes is crucial for a successful installation. Working with a contractor experienced in local building code requirements ensures your basement egress windows are installed correctly, safely, and in full compliance with city regulations.
Emergency Escape and Safety
Egress windows are a vital safety feature in any basement, providing a reliable emergency escape route in case of fire or other emergencies. The International Residential Code (IRC) mandates that egress windows have a minimum net clear opening of 5.7 square feet, ensuring that both residents and emergency responders have enough space to enter or exit the basement quickly. The location and style of the egress window are also important, as they must be easily accessible and unobstructed to serve as an effective rescue opening. Properly installed egress windows not only meet code requirements but also offer peace of mind, knowing that your basement is equipped with a safe and accessible escape route in any emergency situation.
Egress Window Installation in Chicago
Whether you need a new egress window or are seeking replacement services for your existing windows, our team can help ensure your project meets all egress window requirements. All installations are performed to meet the latest standards for rescue openings as required by local codes. Whether you are looking for new egress windows or want to upgrade your existing window wells, we can provide both. Please use the links below to get more information about them.
Contact Us For A Free Estimate On Egress Window Solutions in Chicago and NW Indiana
If you would like to talk to one of our team members about updating your basement egress windows, don’t hesitate to contact us and set up an appointment. We look forward to working with you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do egress windows improve energy efficiency?
How much does it cost to install an egress window?
Egress window installation costs vary depending on the size, materials, and complexity of the project. On average, homeowners in the Chicago area can expect to pay between $2,000 and $5,000 or more for a single window installation. This includes excavation, the window well, drainage system, and ensuring the installation meets local building codes. While the investment can seem significant, it adds value to your home, improves safety, and enhances overall comfort. Many professional contractors offer free estimates and financing options to make installation more affordable.
Do egress windows increase home value?
Yes, installing egress windows can significantly increase your home’s value. In addition to making your basement safer and code-compliant for living spaces, egress windows improve natural light and overall livability—key selling points for potential buyers. Homes with finished basements that include proper egress windows often command higher resale prices and attract more interest from buyers looking for additional usable space.
Are egress windows required by code?
In most municipalities, including Chicago and surrounding areas, egress windows are required in any basement bedroom or living space to meet building codes. These regulations are designed to ensure there’s a safe exit route in case of an emergency, such as a fire. Specific requirements—like minimum window dimensions, well depth, and clearance—can vary, so it’s essential to work with a professional installer who understands local building codes and compliance standards.
