Egress Windows & Window Wells | Carmel & Fishers, IN

What is an egress window?

An egress window is a window in a basement living space that serves the purpose of being an emergency exit in case of fire. Egress windows are held to strict building code to ensure people inside a home can safely exit a building and a fire rescue person and their equipment can enter. Egress windows open easily but can be secured when not needed to ensure the safety of the home.

Why should I install egress windows in my basement?

Having two egress windows in any sleeping space in a home isn’t a choice; it’s a requirement under the International Residential Code (IRC). Without a means of exiting the room that can accommodate an adult-sized person and a firefighter with their equipment, a basement fire can quickly turn into a tragedy. The IRC stipulates that an egress window opening must have a minimum height of 24 inches, minimum width of 20 inches, and a height of 44 inches from sill to floor.

What are the benefits of egress windows?

In addition to providing the peace of mind that comes with taking steps to ensure your home is safe, basement egress windows have many benefits. Egress windows allow you to transform basement space into an extra bedroom, which can increase home value and allow you to expand your family or number of guests you can accommodate. Alternatively, you can choose to use this code-compliant livable space as a home office, fitness room, child’s playroom, or even earn some extra income by renting it out. Think of how much you will save by using your existing space for one of these options instead of building an addition or upgrading to a larger home!

Another benefit of egress windows is the natural light they allow into a basement space, allowing you to potentially spend less on heat and artificial lighting. You can also open egress windows to ventilate a basement space; a huge benefit if you deal with basement moisture.

What if I don’t have a basement bedroom?

Even if you don’t use your basement as a sleeping space, egress windows are still a good idea. Most people spend some amount of time in their basement – perhaps it is a recreation area, a laundry room, or a workshop. In the event of a house fire, you need to be able to exit your basement to the outdoors. Having egress windows makes that possible.

How are egress windows installed?

First, we will work with you to determine the scope of the project and make a plan for egress window installation. We can help you determine the right location for the windows and what sort of style would work best to meet your needs.

Next, we take the necessary steps to ensure the installation will not interfere with utility lines, building lines, cross property lines, or otherwise interfere with your or other’s home or property. We also take careful measures to ensure minimal impact to your grass and landscaping throughout the entire installation process.

To install the windows, we will likely need to excavate the dirt around your homes’ foundation in the location of the future egress window and window well. We will also likely need to cut into the concrete of your home’s foundation (unless an existing window space is large enough to accommodate the new windows). Once the window and window well is installed, we take the necessary steps to ensure proper drainage away from the home to avoid the dreaded leaky basement windows. Throughout the process we work to minimize dirt, dust, and any other negative impact on your home or property. We do everything we can to make it look like we were never there – aside from your beautiful new egress window, of course!

Do egress windows need to be installed in existing window spaces?

No. Egress windows can be installed almost anywhere in the basement. The only parameters are that they must be located at least 24 inches away from gas or propane meters and should also be installed away from air conditioner compressors.

Is it safe to have basement egress windows?

Yes. Just like any other window in your home, all basement egress windows come with locks to deflect break-ins and ensure home security. We also offer a variety of window well covers to prevent trip-and-fall accidents and provide additional protection.

Will my basement egress windows leak?

No. Through a careful process that involves professional installation methods, exceptional materials, and prioritization of drainage, we ensure your basement egress windows will never allow moisture into your home. Drainage is the key – we connect all egress window wells to your home’s existing drainage system to direct precipitation and groundwater away from your home each and every time.

Why should I hire Egress Window Well Pros of Carmel?

Even the most enthusiastic home DIYer shouldn’t attempt an egress window installation alone. Foundation excavation and cutting through basement walls are big projects that require expertise, oversight, and heavy equipment – all tools of the trade here at Egress Window Well Pros of Carmel. We have over two decades of experience providing egress windows and window well installation to satisfied customers across Carmel, Fishers, and the greater region. Give us a call to discuss your project today!