Egress Windows: What Colorado Homeowners Need to Know

If you have a finished basement or are planning to convert your basement into a living space, understanding egress windows is essential. These life-saving features are not just a building code requirement—they're a critical safety investment for your family.

What Is an Egress Window?

An egress window is a large window that provides an emergency exit from a basement or lower-level room. According to Colorado building codes, any bedroom or habitable space below grade must have an egress window that meets specific size requirements.

Colorado Egress Window Requirements

To meet Colorado building codes, egress windows must have:

• Minimum opening area: 5.7 square feet
• Minimum opening height: 24 inches
• Minimum opening width: 20 inches
• Maximum sill height: 44 inches from the floor
• Window well requirements: If below grade, the well must be at least 9 square feet with a minimum horizontal projection of 36 inches

Benefits of Egress Windows

1. Emergency Safety

The primary purpose of an egress window is to provide a safe escape route during emergencies like fires or carbon monoxide leaks. They also allow firefighters to enter the home if needed.

2. Natural Light

Egress windows are larger than standard basement windows, flooding your basement with natural light and making the space feel more open and inviting.

3. Increased Home Value

A code-compliant finished basement with proper egress windows can significantly increase your home's value. It legally allows the space to be counted as additional bedrooms.

4. Better Ventilation

Larger windows mean better air circulation, reducing musty basement odors and improving overall air quality.

The Installation Process

Professional egress window installation typically involves:

1. Site assessment - Evaluating your basement walls and soil conditions
2. Permits - Obtaining necessary building permits from your local jurisdiction
3. Excavation - Digging out the window well area
4. Cutting - Creating the opening in your foundation wall
5. Installation - Setting the window and well system
6. Waterproofing - Ensuring proper drainage and sealing
7. Finishing - Interior and exterior trim work

Why Choose Professional Installation?

Egress window installation involves cutting through your home's foundation—this is not a DIY project. Professional installers ensure:

• Proper structural support
• Code compliance
• Waterproofing and drainage
• Quality materials that withstand Colorado's freeze-thaw cycles

Cost Considerations

Egress window installation in Colorado typically ranges from $2,500 to $5,000+ depending on:

• Foundation type (poured concrete vs. block)
• Window size and style
• Well system requirements
• Soil conditions
• Interior finishing needs

Ready to Add Egress Windows?

At Familia Windows, we specialize in egress window installation throughout Colorado and Wyoming. Our experienced team handles everything from permits to final inspection, ensuring your project meets all safety codes.

Contact us today for a free estimate and make your basement a safer, brighter living space for your family.