Basement windows play an important role in both livability and safety of a home, as well as its energy efficiency.
Homeowners should prioritize meeting building codes for emergency exits and rescues when selecting replacement windows, commonly known as an egress window.
Size
Size matters when it comes to energy efficiency in your home. Larger windows that let in natural light throughout the day can significantly lower energy bills while creating a more comfortable living environment for you and your family.
Consider whether you want your basement windows to open and close easily or provide ventilation. Casement windows with their rotating crank provide excellent ventilation options, while their wide opening allows easy cleaning of the area below your basement window.
Egress windows are essential in inhabitable basements, as they allow residents to escape in an emergency and allow first responders to enter efficiently. Egress windows must be at least 36 inches in height and 44 inches wide so that an average-sized, able-bodied person can pass through.
Window size for your basement should be carefully considered tо balance natural light, energy efficiency, and emergency egress requirements.
Style
Your windows can play a crucial role in how your basement appears, so it is essential to carefully consider all available options before selecting any windows for installation. Selecting windows with natural light-drenched designs will add to the livability of the space while improving the overall aesthetic appeal of the room and house.
There are various styles of windows to consider when it comes to choosing windows for your home, including casement, hopper, slider and awning windows. Hopper windows feature bottom hinges with inward opening action making it easier for cleaning purposes while being great egress devices. Slider windows offer ventilation by sliding left or right while awning windows swivel open from the top for fresh air while blocking pests out.
Select windows with an Energy Star rating to reduce energy costs and save on heating and cooling expenses during winter months. Such windows have been rigorously tested and verified as meeting stringent energy efficiency regulations – this can significantly lower heating and cooling bills!
Energy Efficiency
An energy efficient basement window should feature modern seals to regulate air temperature fluctuations within the room and multiple chambers to distribute pressure evenly, helping reduce damage caused by abnormal weather conditions.
Egress windows should be large enough to facilitate easy entry and exit during an accident or disaster, providing emergency responders with quick and safe passage out. They should also be placed strategically around your basement area so as to provide clear pathways out.
Egress windows should be located 44 inches or more off of the floor in order to ensure individuals can escape in case of an emergency. They should open and close without needing special tools or keys, making them accessible to all. You have numerous egress window styles from casement, awning style, double-hung, and even hopper windows, which open inward to avoid mildew buildup.
Safety
As they’re located below ground level, basement windows can be susceptible to break-ins and other accidents. Taking certain safety measures, however, such as blocking off your basement window with tall bookshelves or installing window well cover locks to deter intruders from entering these low-level windows; trimming any shrubs or bushes near your basement to eliminate hiding places for intruders is another good way of improving security while exterior lighting could help illuminate this space and make your basement safer overall.
Egress windows are essential in basements as they enable individuals to escape their homes during emergency circumstances. Egress windows must be located 44 inches from the floor for easy use by individuals in wheelchairs or with other disabilities. You can choose from various window styles like sliding and hopper windows, which open outward to ventilate and reduce mildew growth in your space; plus, there are plenty of options in terms of colors and styles to meet any aesthetic preferences you might have.
When selecting basement windows, homeowners should prioritize safety, energy efficiency, and aesthetics. Canadian Choice Windows and Doors offers a wide range оf high-quality basement window options tо meet your specific needs. By considering factors such as window size, style, and energy efficiency, you can create a comfortable, safe, and energy-efficient basement space.
