DO YOU NEED AN Egress ? ?
Most likely & We can help!
An egress is designed to allow an easy escape from a building in the case of an emergency or during an evacuation. This is a vital safety feature of any home or building. The egress makes sure family members are never trapped and can exit in the case of an emergency. An egress is usually installed in finished basements, and starting on the 3rd floor. This is national code and again vital to the safety of your loved ones. The installation of an egress requires a permit and must meet minimum standards. These standards can sometimes be more stringent at the local level. Most residential homes more than likely are referring to an egress below grade. An egress below grade, usually refers to a minimum window size being installed in a foundation wall in the basement in coordination with a retaining wall for creation of an area to vacate the area by means of that window.
Another option is the full size walkout staircase. Many people think immediately of the brand Bilco with this option. Bilco, however is just a brand of a company offering a product. There are many options to achieve a full walk out option. We have created many different options allowing for much easier access to combine a finished basement entertainment space with the back yard.
The most basic requirements an egress has:
- Minimum width of opening: 20 in.
- Minimum height of opening: 24 in.
- Minimum net clear opening: 5.7 sq. ft. (5.0 sq. ft. for ground floor)
- Maximum sill height above floor: 44 in.
- The Egress can be a window or door.
- The exterior of the Egress also has to be altered to allow for an easy exit. This area should be designed with drainage
Like many Construction Projects, good planning is key to a quality egress install. Making sure there is enough area for the new header size and required framing is key. Making sure the exterior area is suitable for a retaining wall and proper drainage. Next is framing a temporary support to make sure there is no movement with the removal of material from existing structure.