Basement Egress Window and Door Installation in Severn & Columbia MD

Installing basement egress doors and windows is an essential safety measure for any homeowner with a basement, especially if you want to convert your unfinished basement to living space, such as a basement bedroom. Egress doors and windows provide a secondary escape route in case of emergency, such as a fire or natural disaster, and allow for easier access to the basement. Not only do they provide safety benefits, but they can also increase the value of your home and improve the overall aesthetics of your basement. 

What Is a Basement Egress and Why Is It Important?

A basement egress is simply an area or window used to safely exit the basement in case of an emergency. This includes both windows and doors. Installing an egress provides peace of mind that you and your family can quickly and easily exit your home during a crisis, and firefighters can enter. Furthermore, building codes for bedrooms or other habitable spaces typically require basement windows or doors that can be used as rescue openings.

Egress Doors vs. Egress Windows: What’s the Difference and How To Choose

When selecting a basement egress window or door, there are a few factors to consider. Generally speaking, egress windows can often add extra natural light and air circulation. Doors provide more security, sound control, and peace of mind knowing there is a discrete entryway for your basement space. The decision often comes down to personal preference and what works best with the design of your home. 

Egress Window and Door Requirements – Size and Placement

When installing an egress window or door, it’s important to understand building code requirements to ensure your installation meets the necessary regulations. The egress window minimum size is typically 20 inches wide and 24 inches high. Egress doors should measure at least 32 inches wide, with a minimum headroom clearance of 6 feet 8 inches when the door opens to the outside. Horizontal projections also must be kept at least three feet away from the window or door to allow safe, unobstructed access.

To meet construction code requirements, a basement egress must:

• Have an opening of at least 5.7 square feet
• Measure at least 20 inches wide and 24 inches tall
• Open easily to the outside without obstructions

When replacing an existing egress window or installing a new one, it’s always important to keep window-opening control devices in mind. The purpose of these devices is to prevent children from opening an egress window and falling out. Be sure to discuss your options when your egress window is installed. 

Egress windows and doors add safety, peace of mind, and value to your home. Take time to consider the factors above before you begin installation and to understand local building code requirements. If you’re unsure of the proper sizing, projection, or building code requirements, Tru Integrity can help ensure that your egress door or window meets the necessary regulations. With the correct installation, your new basement window or door will provide an easy-to-use emergency exit to help keep you and your family safe and secure.

At Tru Integrity, we provide our customers with high customer service, always with your satisfaction as our highest priority. Our knowledgeable staff is available to answer any of your questions and to provide you with a free estimate on the project. Contact us today to create the perfect egress window or door for your home!