- What is an egress window?
- Can we have a bedroom in our basement without an egress window?
- Why shouldn’t I have hardwood flooring in my basement?
What is an egress window?
An egress window is a window that is large enough to allow a person to exit the basement in an emergency. It is usually integrated with a window well designed to allow evacuation. Some building codes require the installation of an egress window if the basement will be used as a bedroom, while others require an egress window whether or not you plan to use your basement as a bedroom. Ideally, every basement room should have two ways out: one leading upstairs and another leading straight outside, so that multiple exits are available in case of a fire.
Can we have a bedroom in our basement without an egress window?
In accordance with 2006 International Residential Code, all finished basements must have a means of egress (escape); installing an egress window with window well, or enlarging existing windows and window wells to meet code requirements are an common requirements of many basement finishing projects.
Why shouldn’t I have hardwood flooring in my basement?
Wood is a poor choice for basement flooring material because it is organic and absorbs water. Moist floors create the perfect environment for mold to grow. Moisture can also cause the flooring to warp, requiring expensive repairs.
