A finished basement is among the easiest methods of creating additional space in the home. A playroom, bedrooms and/or a family room can be created in the basement. If you are thinking about a basement renovation project, it is important to know that you might need to put in bigger windows. Egress windows are essentially large openings that provide a secondary exit in the event of an emergency. Additionally, they can make the basement feel a lot more inviting by adding more natural light.
Basement living spaces and bedrooms are required to have Georgetown egress windows. These living spaces can be used as TV rooms, offices or workshops. The mandate involves unfinished basements as well.
Choosing Egress Windows for the Basement
There is a variety of styles of windows that work remarkably for basements and satisfy the requirements for building code. Below are two of them:
• Sliding Windows
These windows bring additional lighting to spacious basements. They have to be taller and wider as the opening is just half as wide as the window. This happens because the sash slides horizontally. Moving the sash from left to right is how most sliding windows are opened. Some models are there that incorporate extra-durable tandem nylon rollers. The rollers deliver an even more uncomplicated operation. The sliding windows must have a net opening that is a minimum of 16 square feet.
• Casement Windows
These windows are ideal for homeowners who do not have a great deal of wall space. They operate similar to a door, which swings free to offer a wide opening. A casement window opens when an attached handle is rotated. There are some casement windows that feature a fold-away crank. This was designed to ensure that the crank will not get in the way of any treatment used at the window. It is required for the window to have a net opening that is a minimum of 8 square feet.
Since the Georgetown egress window is designed to be a way out, it must be opened from the inside. Any bars, grilles or screens must be taken from the inside without tools or keys. Additionally, it is vital for basement windows to open completely. The sash should not hinder the opening as this would prevent household members from making a quick exit or for first responders to enter quickly. Local basement windows requirements may vary, so check your local building officials to know neighborhood guidelines.