Installing egress windows is truly an investment in your family’s health and safety. You don’t want to assume the worst will happen, but you want to be ready for when it does. Accidents happen every day. If you’re interested in installing some egress windows, we offer three types:
If you are planning a basement remodel or converting your basement into a living or sleeping space, you may have heard that you need egress windows. But what are they? An egress window is a type of window you would use in case of an emergency, like a house fire. Its main purpose is to allow you to escape or to allow a firefighter to gain access.
Egress windows are required in new construction homes, but older homes may not have them. Depending on how old your house is, it’s possible that your basement has windows with a smaller opening than required by the International Residential Code. It is now more popular to use basements as a living room, bedroom, office space, gym, etc., so it is important to make sure your home has this often overlooked safety feature. IWP has all the info you need to learn more about egress windows.
Many homes across America have basements and use them for any number of things –from storage, to extra bedrooms, to hangout spaces for the whole family. Basements are perfect for all of these things, but it’s still important to remember safety. It is likely that the contractor that built your home took into account the best safety practices, but egress windows are often considered an extra. Egress windows are important because they can offer a life-saving escape route in case of fire. You don’t want to take any chances with your family’s health and safety. What are the benefits of an egress window? They include:
The simplest answer is safety. They can likely save your life in case of a fire emergency. However, there are plenty of other reasons to install an egress window in your home!
To make sure that egress windows are safe, they must comply with the following measurement requirements:
They must also be able to open from the inside, and there cannot be any structures obstructing the opening, like grilles or bars.
IWP offers three types of egress windows: concrete, fiberglass, and corrugated metal. They each have their own strengths and weaknesses, and we are willing to help you find the best option for you.
An egress needs a sump pump to prevent water accumulation in the area, particularly in basements or crawlspaces where the egress window is located.
Without a sump pump, water from heavy rains or melting snow can enter through the egress and flood the space, leading to potential damage, mold growth, and structural issues.
The sump pump helps manage and expel excess water, keeping the area dry and ensuring the egress remains functional and safe for use.
To determine if your home has drain tile, start by checking the basement or crawlspace for any visible drainage pipes or a perforated system near the foundation walls or floor. You might also look for signs of drainage systems, such as sump pumps or water collection pits, which often accompany drain tile systems.
If your home was built before 1985, chances are it does not have drain tile.
Another way to see if you have drain tile, you can check for these signs:
Your home is your sanctuary, and keeping it safe is our priority. Contact us today to schedule an assessment and learn how our egress window services can safeguard the structural integrity, value, and comfort of your home. With IWP, you can trust that your foundation is in expert hands, and you’ll enjoy a dry, secure, and worry-free living space.
With over 30 years of combined experience in the business, you know that you can trust our team to get the job done right the first time. We value the customer experience, which is why we take the time to listen to your concerns, answer all your questions, and explain the best plan of action for your home. If you’ve noticed any foundation issues at all, no matter how minor they seem, you should call a professional. Our expert team is waiting for you, so call today for a free evaluation!