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Highlights
- The typical range for egress window costs is $2,621 to $5,662 with a national average of $4,129.
- Egress window cost factors include labor and permits, window size and type, frame material, and installation location.
- There are a variety of benefits to installing egress windows, such as natural light and ventilation, the addition of an emergency exit, safety, increased home value, and improved aesthetics.
- To ensure that windows are installed properly and avoid future water damage and mold growth, it’s a good idea to have a professional install egress windows.
Homeowners who use their basements as bedrooms, offices, TV rooms, or other living spaces are required to install egress windows. Any room that residents live in or use frequently needs an egress window or a window that is large enough that it can be used as an escape during an emergency. According to Angi, egress window costs range from $2,621 to $5,662, with the national average at $4,129. The average price includes materials between $100 and $700 per window and $100 to $250 per window for installation. The total cost for purchase and installation depends on the size of the windows, the total number of windows, window type, brand, and removal and replacement costs. If it’s necessary to cut through a wall or excavate to install egress windows in the home, costs may be about $1,500 to $3,000 per window.
Egress windows look like any other window, but they must be large enough to fit through if someone has to climb out of one during an emergency. Egress windows come in a variety of styles and sizes to accommodate the aesthetics of the home.
What is an egress window?
Basements in older homes rarely have large enough windows for people to climb out of in the event of a house fire or other emergency despite this being one of the rules for finished basements. Depending on the home’s age, the basement may have small, narrow windows or hopper windows that open inward. These windows are not large enough for someone to exit or a first responder to enter. Egress windows are large secondary exit windows that ensure residents a safe exit during an emergency. These windows are required for all the living spaces in a home.
The building codes in a specific area will dictate the egress window requirements for a home. According to the International Residential Code, the minimum egress window size is 24 inches high, a net opening of at least 821 square inches or 5.7 square feet, and a windowsill that is no more than 44 inches off the floor. Egress window wells must project at least 36 inches from the house with a clearance area of 9 square feet. The regulations for window wells and bars, screens, grills, or covers over a window differ from city to city. It’s wise to inquire about specifics with the local building authority.
It can be tempting to skip installing egress windows since the cost to finish a basement is already significant. However, according to the International Residential Code, there needs to be at least one egress window in each sleeping area in a basement or bedroom below the fourth floor. This is also essential when making a room into a bedroom. Some homeowners install more than one egress window to increase safety and allow more natural light into the room.
Factors in Calculating Egress Window Cost
Many factors impact the cost to install egress windows. Window prices can differ from the national average due to labor costs and permit fees in the area, materials, window size and type, the number of egress windows needed, window removal, glass quality, the type of property, and geographic location.
Labor and Permits
Installing egress windows takes knowledge and skill. Homeowners can expect to pay approximately $40 to $100 per hour for labor to install egress windows, or approximately $100 to $1,000 per window in total. If the windows are below ground level, the area will need to be excavated. This process requires more time and labor and will therefore have a higher cost. It may also be necessary to hire additional professionals such as structural engineers or electricians depending on the placement of the window, which may add $350 to $1,000 to the total cost.
Installing egress windows usually requires a permit. If it is necessary to dig to install the windows, a permit for excavation will also be required. Most permits can cost from $50 to $300 each. An egress window professional will get the necessary permits for the project.
Window Size and Type
The cost of an egress window is influenced more by the type of window than by the size. Egress window dimensions must be at least 20 inches wide by 24 inches high, and it needs to be large enough for an adult to pass through it in an emergency. On average, the smallest allowable egress window can cost between $200 and $400. Casement windows are the most popular option for basement egress windows and cost around $200 to $500, but single-hung, double-hung, sliding, and in-swing options are also available. The cost of double-pane windows or triple-pane windows is also higher than the cost of single-pane windows.
Window Frame Material
Egress window frames come in a variety of materials, and vinyl, aluminum, fiberglass, steel, and wood are the most common. Vinyl typically has the lowest price point at about $100 to $850 per window, while wood frames can cost as much as $400 to $2,000.
| Frame Material | Average Cost (Materials Only) |
| Aluminum | $150 to $1,250 |
| Fiberglass | $200 to $1,500 |
| Steel | $400 to $1,750 |
| Vinyl | $100 to $850 |
| Wood | $400 to $2,000 |
Installation Location
The location where an egress window is being installed can also affect the price. One reason for this is that the location may dictate the style of egress window that is used. For example, windows in attics are rarely seen, so they are typically single-hung style as this is the least costly. Another factor is the room’s location in relation to the home’s foundation. A basement egress window costs more in most cases because these are situated below ground level and require excavation.
Additional Costs and Considerations
When budgeting for egress window costs, it’s helpful to know the additional price factors and considerations that can increase the cost of the installation project. These can include prefabricated versus custom window costs; above-grade versus below-grade installation if excavation, construction, or window well digging is needed; and any extra add-ons.
Prefabricated vs. Custom
Egress windows can be custom or come in prefabricated egress window kits. Prefabricated egress windows cost between $100 and $500 per window, depending on the type and if they will be installed above or below ground. Custom windows may be needed depending on the structure and requirements of the home. They can run between $500 and $700 per window.
Above-Grade vs. Below-Grade
The different levels of a home are referred to as on-grade, above-grade, or below-grade. The ground-level floor is known as the on-grade floor. Any floor that is above the on-grade level is called above-grade, and the basement is called below-grade. Basements need a below-grade installation, and in many homes, that means cutting through the foundation and digging a window well. The cost to excavate for a window well runs from $50 to $200 per cubic yard. Above-grade installations require units with an opening of at least 5.7 square feet.
New Installation vs. Window Replacement
Putting in an egress window may mean either replacing an existing window with an egress window or creating an entirely new opening. Generally speaking, window replacement costs less than putting in a window where there was not one to begin with. Replacing a window with an egress window of the same size costs about $200 before the cost of the window itself. For an older home with small windows, it will be necessary to resize the window opening before installing an egress window. Resizing a window opening costs between $150 and $200 per window opening, and the cost to cut a new window opening is about $700 per window.
Excavation for Window Wells
Digging a window well requires cutting a hole in the foundation or concrete wall for a fully submerged basement. It is vital to hire an experienced professional to ensure the safety and stability of the home’s foundation. Homeowners can expect to pay about $50 to $200 per cubic yard for excavation, with most windows requiring the excavation of between 1 and 1.5 cubic yards.
Digging a window well is more than just excavating dirt and installing a window; it needs to be graded properly for drainage, to keep moisture away from the foundation, and to install steps or a ladder if needed. It may also be necessary to install a well cover to prevent water infiltration and increase basement window security. The best window well covers cost about $600 to install on average.
Customizations
Extra features such as smart glass, curtains, blinds, or low-e coating will raise the egress window costs by as much as 10 percent. If desired, window tinting costs $316 to $927 on average and can decrease energy bills. If the home is located in a colder climate and weatherstripping is necessary, that can cost between $130 and $400 per window.
| Customization | Average Cost (Materials and Labor) |
| Blinds | $600 to $2,700 |
| Curtains | $1,800 to $3,000 |
| Low-e coating | $300 to $1,000 |
| Smart glass | $30 to $45 per square foot |
| Weatherstripping | $130 to $400 |
| Window tinting | $316 to $927 |
Types of Egress Windows
Egress windows cost between $100 and $2,000 per window. Basement windows must have an opening of at least 5 feet, not including the frame. Prices are different depending on the size and the way the window opens and closes. Single-hung windows can cost around $100 per window, while custom in-swing or sliding windows can cost upward of $1,000 per window. Here are some of the most common types of egress windows.
| Type of Window | Average Cost (Materials Only) |
| Awning | $600 to $2,000 |
| Casement | $200 to $1,200 |
| Double-hung | $250 to $1,300 |
| Horizontal or sliding | $150 to $1,000 |
| In-swing | $350 to $1,300 |
| Single-hung | $100 to $800 |
Awning
Awning-style egress windows open outward from a hinge located at the top of the window. Since they open outward, they are most often installed in above-ground locations rather than in basements. Awning egress windows are relatively large, with sizes starting at 36 inches by 24 inches. For this reason, they are among the pricier options for egress windows at $600 to $2,000.
Casement
Casement windows are the most common type of egress window. A window is considered a casement window if it has at least one hinge on its side. It opens with a hand crank to increase the amount of fresh air in a room. The outward swing of the window allows it to fit in smaller areas of a basement, which makes it a popular egress window option. Egress casement windows run between $200 and $1,200 per window.
Double-Hung
Both the top and bottom sashes of a double-hung window move up and down. Both sashes can be opened simultaneously to allow more air into the room for circulation, which is ideal in warmer climates. Double-hung windows need to meet the minimum requirements to be an egress window. It’s not uncommon to have double-hung windows 24 to 60 inches high by 28 to 60 inches wide. These windows cost between $250 and $1,300 per window.
Horizontal or Sliding
Horizontal or sliding egress windows open to the left or right, similar to a sliding glass door. Horizontal windows need to be at least 4 feet by 4 feet to be an egress window. It’s common to see sliding windows in larger rooms like family or living rooms due to the sheer size of the window. Sliding egress windows cost between $150 and $1,000.
In-Swing
In-swing windows open inward into the room. This is another popular option for smaller spaces like basements. If installing an in-swing window with a window well, the well can be smaller since the window opening does not swing open outward. In-swing egress windows run $350 to $1,300 per window.
Single-Hung
Single-hung windows have two panes of glass, and the bottom sash moves up and down while the top sash is stationary. A single-hung window needs to be at least 20 by 24 inches to qualify as an egress window. These windows are usually the most budget-friendly option at $100 to $800 per window.
Benefits of Installing an Egress Window
Installing egress windows to a home not only satisfies building codes, but it keeps residents and guests safe. Egress windows add to the value of a home while adding extra light and ventilation to the space. Here are a few of the many benefits of installing egress windows.
Natural Lighting and Ventilation
The required large egress windows allow for natural light to flood into an otherwise dark basement space. Since the required size of an egress window needs to be at least 5.7 square feet, the window permits outside air ventilation into what can sometimes be considered the stuffiest area in a house: the basement.
Emergency Exit
Having egress windows in a home increases the likelihood of a quick escape in the event of a fire or another emergency.
Safety
Not only do egress windows make it possible to exit a home quickly, but they also allow for emergency personnel and first responders to enter the home for rescue or treatment. An egress window ensures that everyone has access to a safe emergency exit at all times.
Increased Home Value
Egress windows increase the value of a home, meet building code requirements, and include the space into the overall square footage of the home. If an extra bedroom is added to the basement, homeowners can recoup 10 to 20 times the egress window installation cost if the home is sold.
Improved Aesthetics
Egress windows and window wells can help improve the overall design of a home. By using materials such as wood, brick, or stone, it is possible to make window wells a centerpiece of the outside of the home. There are also composite window well liners that imitate the look and design of using natural materials while being budget-friendly. The larger size of egress windows adds to the overall design aesthetic of the home by letting in additional light to create an open and airy atmosphere.
Egress Window Installation: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
It’s recommended for homeowners to hire egress window installation professionals when it’s time for the project. Since egress windows are a critical safety feature in a home, it’s important to get the help of a professional to guarantee that the finished window is up to code. Professionals will also be able to pull all of the necessary permits so that homeowners do not face fines down the road.
A botched below-level installation can also cost a lot of money to repair if it results in leaking, flooding, and black mold growth. If a window well is improperly excavated and graded, it too can cause flooding and leaking inside the window well and home. There is also the risk of disturbing or destroying plumbing, utility, or telecommunication lines when digging a window well. Cutting holes in the foundation is a task that a professional should do to maintain the foundation’s structural integrity.
How to Save Money on Egress Window Cost
The cost to add egress windows can be high, and the additional costs associated with the project can quickly add up. One way to save money on egress window costs is to install the cheapest window that meets building codes, but there are other ways to save without compromising quality.
- Get multiple estimates. Request at least three estimates from reputable window professionals in the area. Let the window company know that you’re getting multiple estimates—they may be willing to match a lower quote.
- Negotiate prices. Most window companies expect price negotiations and will allow for some price fluctuations with window costs.
- Avoid the extras. Window companies will offer additional features that can add to the overall price of egress window installation. Stick to the basics to save money.
- Install common window types. Unusual window shapes and styles will drive up the price of egress window installation. If possible, avoid custom windows and choose common window types such as casement, single-hung, double-hung, sliding, and in-swing windows.
Questions to Ask About Egress Window Installation
Asking a professional the right questions about egress window cost can minimize miscommunication, save money, and get the desired results. Here are some questions to ask an egress window professional.
- How long has your window company been in business?
- How much experience do you have installing egress windows?
- Do you have references?
- What are the pros and cons of different egress windows?
- How do you respond to customer complaints?
- How long will the egress window installation take?
- Who will install the egress windows?
- What does the egress window installation process entail?
- What is the cleanup process after installation?
- Who can I call if something goes wrong?
- Do you offer a warranty on both the windows and the installation?
FAQs
Deciding on egress window installation while staying within a budget can be a daunting process. Here are some frequently asked questions about egress windows to help guide this decision-making process.
Q. Do egress windows add value to the home?
Yes. Not only do egress windows provide a safe escape route from your home, but they also add value by adding square footage. Egress windows bring basement bedrooms and living spaces up to code, and this project can have an return on investment (ROI) of up to 70 percent if the home is sold.
Q. How long does it take to install an egress window?
It can take 3 days for the installation, excavation, and framing of an egress window. If the job is more complicated or more than one window is being installed, the project may take longer.
Q. Is it hard to install an egress window?
Installing an egress window takes the knowledge and experience of window installation professionals. Since the project can involve digging and cutting holes in the foundation, it makes the project challenging and geared toward skilled professionals.
Q. How do I maintain my egress window?
If your basement egress windows are underground, you can check for leaks and proper drainage by using a garden hose. Run water into the window well and see how long it takes to drain. If you find damage around the window and the drainage works properly, check for cracks in the foundation. Adding weatherstripping can prevent leaks and drafts. Regularly check basement egress windows for clogged drains, excess debris, impacted gravel, or a loose seal around the window well. Always direct downspouts away from window wells, clear any excess debris, and maintain the grading of dirt and landscaping for proper drainage.
Q. Do all basements need egress windows?
If you’re adding a bedroom to a basement or planning to use the basement as a living space, you’ll need to factor in egress window installation to your basement remodel costs. Having an egress window is very important in case you and your family need to evacuate your home as quickly as possible.
Sources: Angi (1 and 2), International Code Council, Fixr, Forbes
