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Yes, egress windows can significantly add value to a home. By making basement and attic areas safer and more livable, they allow you to market these spaces as finished living areas, which increases your property's value. Many homeowners can recover the full installation cost, with some sources citing a return on investment of around 70%. The exact value added depends on your specific home, location, and adherence to local building codes. Beyond financial value, egress windows enhance functionality by adding natural light and comfort. They are also a crucial safety feature, often mandated by building codes to serve as an emergency exit.

When specifying window sizes, manufacturers use a standard four-digit code system. The first two numbers represent window width, and the last two represent window height. For example, a window with a code of 2917 has dimensions of 2 feet, 9 inches wide by 1 foot, 7 inches high. Windows with even dimensions include zeros as placeholders. For example, a window that is 5 feet wide by 2 feet high would have a code of 5020.

While all windows require some maintenance, vinyl windows are the least hands-off. They’re easy to clean, weather resistant, and extremely durable. If you like the look of wood windows but hate the price tag and high maintenance requirements, you can add a faux wood finish to vinyl as well. 

Most manufacturers have their name imprinted somewhere on the window, such as the spacer bar, hardware, or frame. Other manufacturers will include an identification number printed on the glass itself. If you’re unable to find either of these, then your window was manufactured locally (oftentimes called a “shop window”). 

With a manufacturer name (or even better, the identification number) you can attempt to research the information to find out when the product was made. Keep in mind this won’t tell you when the window was installed on your home, but can get you close.