If there is a bedroom in your basement, you should have more than one way out in the event of an emergency. Having only one escape path from your basement can be dangerous and unsafe, which is why a basement egress window is needed. Most building codes require a basement egress window. Our EscapeWell™ System provides another exit when using stairs isn’t an option.
What is a basement egress window?
A basement egress window — sometimes called an escape window — serves as a functional and important safety feature for your home. Standard escape windows are 45 inches tall and 35 inches wide, large enough for most people to exit through.
Why do I need an escape window?
In case of an emergency, this window is often the safest, quickest, and only way out. If a fire breaks out and the stairway leading upstairs is blocked, a basement egress window lets you get out of the house immediately. It is also used by fire departments if they need to gain access to the basement during an emergency. If there is a bedroom in the basement, this type of window is necessary to ensure your family’s safety. The escape window also complies with most egress building codes. Plus, if you are selling your home and want it to list it with a “bedroom in the basement,” you are required to have an egress window in that basement bedroom.
How do we install the EscapeWell™ System?
U.S. Waterproofing can upgrade many existing smaller window wells with our EscapeWell™ System, or we can start from scratch. First, we excavate the soil by hand to minimize disruption to landscaping and the area around your home. Then we carefully saw cut the foundation wall to create an opening where we install a new white vinyl casement window with high efficiency glass and a removable screen that facilitates ventilation. We bolt and seal a corrugated metal window well liner to the foundation wall outside your home to keep water and dirt out of the window well. A ladder is attached to the liner so it can be used to climb out of the well in the event of an emergency. An interior Window Well Drain is surrounded by stone and added at the bottom of the well to keep any water that may enter from accumulating. A Window Well Cover is attached to the top of the window well. It allows light to reach the basement and protects from people, pets, leaves, and debris entering. This reinforced cover can hold up to 500 pounds and locks for additional security.
Why choose U.S. Waterproofing’s EscapeWell™ System?
We offer a complete turn-key basement egress window solution. When the goal is keeping your family safe, using an expert is a must. The EscapeWell™ System was developed in response to our customers telling us they couldn’t find qualified providers for this service. With an expert like U.S. Waterproofing, you’ll get an outstanding warranty (which means something when you’ve been around as long as we have!) and peace of mind. If you have a bedroom in the basement or plan to add one, you can schedule your free consultation online today.
