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Safety & planning

Basement Egress Windows

Egress planning is especially important when a basement will include sleeping space. Window size, opening method, sill height, window-well configuration, drainage, structural changes, and local code requirements all need to work together.

Do not treat egress as a decorative window

An emergency escape and rescue opening has a life-safety purpose. The exact requirements depend on current code and the room configuration, so verify them for your project.

The opening affects more than the glass

Creating or enlarging a basement opening may involve foundation cutting, structural details, a window well, drainage, exterior grading, and interior finish repairs.

Plan egress before the bedroom layout is final

The location of the opening influences furniture, privacy, natural light, and circulation. It is much easier to coordinate before framing and electrical work are complete.

Keep planning

Related basement remodeling guides

Use these pages to work through the next decision in your project.

Basement Bedroom

Connect egress planning to the whole room.

Explore →

Grand Rapids Permits

Review local permit resources.

Explore →

Need to include egress in your Grand Rapids basement project?

Call Grand Rapids Basement Pros and talk through your basement remodeling or finishing project.

Call 616-235-9313
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