The government requires basement egress window units for a good reason. It helps that both you and your family can safely exit your basement should there be an emergency such as fire or flood. Basement bedroom window is supposed to be a functional getaway in case of an emergency out of your home. It also offers an access point for rescue operations like a paramedic and the fire tender to gain access into your house.
In addition, egress window units have a clear opening that enhances the amount of light and fresh air in the basement. This removes the odour of damp basements and also helps to eliminate mould and mould formation.
- Basement Window Requirements.
Basement egress windows are distinct from windows that may be installed on a second, third, or any other floor. There are no differences between sizes and styles according to the places that they are located. However, for the basement windows they differ in such that they are more than one and a half meters in height from the floor. In such a case, it is advised that at least one step be constructed at the back of the window for emergencies such as fire outbreaks.
- Installation.
Sometimes when people transform their basements to provide bedroom basement windows in order to create a play area, it may be necessary to cut the concrete walls in order to make the window larger.
On such occasions, most window replacement companies advise a contractor who will widen the window opening to the required window width. Your window replacement company will measure the windows precisely according to the existing building codes.
It is usually necessary that you obtain a permit from your municipality in order to carry out the work, so it’s important to check with the company you’re hiring to see if you will need any more permits for your window installation. In most cases, as the homeowner, you are expected to source and guarantee a cut-out permit.
Once the opening is widened, the new window can be placed after that.
- Which Egress Windows Are Suitable for Your Basement?
After you have decided to renovate your basement then it is high time to decide which windows are the best for the basement bedroom.
- Casement Windows.
Casement windows are hinged at the side and can be opened to almost 90 degrees, being fixed to the frame by one or two hinges. These are rather tall windows that can be swung out; thus, they are perfect for use as an emergency exit. You don’t have to bend or fold yourself to fit through a small hole due to their height and/or width.
They serve the purpose of the current egress window requirements and size specifications because they are easy to use, help to promote ventilation of the basement, and admit a lot of light when used alongside the window well.
Fortunately, many basic casement-style windows already meet the codes because they are newer models.
- Single and Double-Hung Windows.
These windows move up and down. Both single-hung windows and double-hung windows assist in improving the flow of air inside the basement.
Single-hung windows allow the bottom sash of the glass to be moved upward to provide an aperture in this region of the window frame. On the other hand, double-hung windows enable the top and the bottom glass panes to be operated, and you can open the window at the top or bottom of the frame. That’s where one would run to in the event of an emergency situation.
- Slider Windows.
Egress basement windows that are easy to open make single or double slider windows airtight since one panel of the window moves to one side to create a way out. However, similar to the casement windows, only one-half of the total window area may be used as an exit.
Existing egress requirements of windows have to be respected and one has to consult with the local window manufacturer to realize this window type to conform to the minimum egress window size.
- Awning Windows.
Awning windows, therefore, open by swinging from the bottom and are fitted with a hinge on top of the window. These can be opened fully and with no additional help; as long as these are sized correctly, they adhere to the building code.
- Custom Egress Windows
Canadians give much importance to the national building code so that their house would be the right one for the family’s security. That is why one needs to find a window and door maker who understands all the various nuances of egress windows Canada regulations.
Fortunately, there are many custom egress window manufacturers that you can select from a list. Whether they are replacing a basement or constructing a new home, homeowners will get beautifully designed, energy-efficient windows professionally installed and meeting the building code regulations.