Basement Egress Window Wells

Since 2000 the International Building Code (IRC) requires that every basement bedroom or basement living space have at least one emergency exit, exiting directly to the outside. An operable window with a clear opening of 5.7 square feet to act as an egress window (escape window) in the event of an emergency meets this requirement. In addition to the 5.7 square foot requirement, these windows must also have a clear opening, (inside frame to frame) measuring a minimum of 20"wide and 24"high, (NOTE: 20"x 24"doesn't equal 5.7sq. ft.).

The code also requires that the maximum allowable distance from the floor to the window sill is no more than 44 inches in order to be acceptable as an emergency escape or egress window.

It also requires an egress window well that has a minimum of 9 square foot of surface area and a 36 inch projection off the foundation wall. Any egress window well that is deeper than 44"must have either a ladder or steps to allow safe exit.

All of our Egress Window Wells meet the current IRC code.

NOTE: It is the responsibility of the owner, architect, contractor and or builder to select products that comply with applicable, state and local building codes and that is appropriate for the application and use. A building permit probability will be needed.