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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.
Most modern egress windows installed in basements open outward into a window well, although some older homes have in-swing windows. Egress windows, like casement windows used in other parts of the home, such as bedrooms and bathrooms, may open inward, and these windows are often larger than outward-opening windows.
The proper way to install a window well is to measure the window, dig a hole deeper and wider than the window, place a drainage tube and cap, anchor the well to the foundation, caulk the seam, and backfill the hole. The job requires tools such as a hammer drill and auger and some heavy digging. Proper placement and window well installation are critical to preventing water from leaking into the window.
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.
The cost of window installation depends on several factors, including the window type, size, and frame material. Labor rates, the need for custom sizing, and any required structural modifications will also influence the final price.
The Hendricks, MN homeowners’ guide to egress window services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Find out how much it will cost to replace a basement window in your home, based on the type and size of the window, whether it’s prefab or custom, and who does the installation.
Window wells bring more natural light into your basement and can act as a safe point of egress. Learn about window well replacement costs in this price guide.
