Can An Awning Window Be An Egress Window?
Can An Awning Window Be An Egress Window?
Yes, an awning window can be an egress window. In order to meet building codes, an egress window must have an opening area of at least 5.7 square feet and a net clear opening height and width of at least 20 inches and 24 inches respectively. An awning window, when opened, can provide a large enough opening area to meet these requirements and therefore, can be an egress window.
Awning windows are a popular window choice for kitchens and bathrooms and can also be used in basements. Their main advantage is that they are designed to open outward and provide ventilation while still providing some protection from the elements.
However, it is important to note that awning windows are not generally considered egress windows. An egress window is a window that is designed to provide a safe and accessible exit from a building in the event of an emergency.
As a result, egress windows must meet certain size, height, and opening requirements, which awning windows typically do not meet.
An awning window can be used as an egress window, but all awning windows have a minimum opening size of 5.7 square feet, the smallest size required by IBC.
In addition to the window’s opening size, it is also important that there be at least 24 inches of open space between the top of the opening and the bottom of the egress window well. Awning windows provide a good means to provide occupants with easy access out of their living spaces in an emergency.
Awning windows are hinged on one side and move back and forth like an accordion or folding door from one side to another. This particular type of window is a good choice for homes with limited space, as the doors can be opened wider, reducing the available space.
The awning window has also been designed to fit in with traditional architecture, which can give architects and home builders a green option for using less wood in construction.
Can An Egress Window Be Added To A Basement?
Yes. An egress window can be added to many residential buildings. Adding an egress window to a basement is necessary for turning a basement into a legal dwelling space. According to the fire safety code, any dwelling space must have emergency egress points, such as a window or door.
Fortunately, incorporating an egress window into a basement is a fairly common and fairly simple process. This entails digging out an area in the basement wall, installing a window frame and sill, and then securing the window in the wall with a cement-based mortar.
This window should meet the minimum requirements for size and height, be dual pane, and be made of tempered glass.
Additionally, this window should be equipped with an emergency escape ladder that locks in place when not in use. After the window is installed, the rest of the basement wall must be insulated and covered, and there must also be a fire stop placed between the floor of the basement and the outer walls or barriers.
Egress windows can be added to most basements if done properly, providing occupants with easy access to safety in any emergency.
For example, an egress window can be added to a basement for safety and security. If there is not currently an egress window in the basement of a home, one can be built. An installation must meet the window’s size and height requirements.
This can be accomplished by building a set-back wall that meets the minimum required height for egress windows and installing the desired egress window size and type (i.e., casement, picture, etc.).
It is also important that any installed egress window meets code requirements for operation and opening capabilities and finishing materials such as glass.
