Get matched with top eifs installation pros in Steger, IL

Basements are generally required to have windows for your safety. At a minimum, windows should provide an egress in the event of a fire. But basement windows do more than offer a way out; basement windows also offer natural light and ventilation in an area of your home that is otherwise dark and musty.

Yes, you can install a bay window in an existing house. You’ll need to have a structural engineer draw up plans to add the necessary support to your exterior load-bearing walls and a general contractor to make the changes to the framing around the new wall opening. This will cost an average of $3,000. After that work is done, a window installer can set the new bay window in place.

There are a range of egress window types available, including:

• Single-hung: $100–$400

• Double-hung: $250–$500

• Horizontal/sliding: $150–$800

• Casement: $200–$500

• In-swing: $350–$700

When choosing a type of egress window, consider how you’d like to open it. For example, double-hung egress windows open from top to bottom and let plenty of fresh air in, whereas sliding windows slide open for easy access.  

Yes, egress windows are grandfathered. However, this comes with some specifications. If you are remodeling a basement or adding a sleeping area, you’ll need to update the egress windows to be up to proper code. But, if you’re leaving your home as is, you do not have to adhere to these requirements.