Blog

BASEMENT WINDOWS – HOW TO MEET EGRESS REQUIREMENTS

Do you have a teenager who is itching to move to a bedroom in the basement?  Are you concerned that the window is not large enough to be a bedroom window if someone needed to escape through it?
As per section 9.7.1.2 of the Alberta Building Code the following are the legal requirements for a bedroom window:
1.    Except where the suite is sprinklered, each bedroom or combination bedroom shall have at least one outside window or exterior door openable from the inside without the use of keys, tools or special knowledge and without the removal of sashes or hardware.  (As per our extremely knowledgeable Job Coordinator, Megan Whiteside, this means that you cannot put awning windows into a bedroom window because they require special knowledge to unlatch the hardware to allow for escape.)2.    The window referred to in Sentence (1) shall
(a) provide an unobstructed opening of not less than 0.35 square metres (or 3.77 square feet) in area with no dimension less than 380 mm (15 inches) and
(b) maintain the required opening during an emergency without the need for additional support. 

3.    If the window referred to in Sentence (1) is provided with security bars, the security bars shall be openable from the inside without the use of any tools or special knowledge.

It is recommended that the sills of the windows intended for use as emergency exits be not higher than 1.5 m above the floor.

If your windows do not meet the size requirements above for a bedroom window, call S.I.S.  We can cut the concrete, (called concrete coring) enlarge the opening and then install a window that meets the above requirements.  The window can be made to meet all fire code Egress requirements. Call us at (403) 640-1334 for more details and information or e-mail us at contact@sisltd.ca.  We would be happy to give you an estimate.

S.I.S. Exterior Renovations Team

Recent Posts

5 Reasons to Consider James Hardie Shingle Siding for Your Home

James Hardie® shingle siding presents a compelling siding choice for numerous reasons. Its aesthetic versatility and…

5 months ago

4 Tips on Picking the Right Siding and Trim Colors

One of the best things about today's exterior products, like James Hardie® siding, is the wide…

5 months ago

What Happens During Siding Replacement?

You're not expected to install your own siding, but being familiar with the process can…

6 months ago

Why Siding Replacement Is Better Than a Paint Job

As a homeowner contemplating exterior renovations, you may face a decision-making dilemma between opting for…

6 months ago

How Much Will It Cost to Replace My Siding?

When thinking about replacing your home's exterior siding, it's important to consider the cost. The siding…

6 months ago

What Makes an Energy-Efficient Window?

Windows are a critical component of your home, significantly impacting both your comfort and energy…

8 months ago