Turning an unused basement into a liveable space can help your family live more comfortably in your home. Plus, it can increase the resale value of your house, especially if it enables you to add an additional bedroom. But before you finish your basement or put up a wall to create an extra bedroom, you’ll need to make sure you satisfy one important safety requirement—installing an egress window.
What Is an Egress Window?
An egress window is a large window that can be used as an exit in case of an emergency situation. Egress windows give occupants a secondary escape route should the home’s main exits become blocked during an emergency such as a fire. They also give emergency personnel an additional access point into the home.
Are There Egress Requirements in Michigan?
Because they serve as an escape and rescue opening, egress windows are typically required in all bedrooms and in any basement that serves as a living area. If your basement is finished, contains a bedroom, or is used as a living space in any way, it must have an egress window.
Egress window size and egress opening requirements must also be met in order to satisfy building code. You’ll also need to install a properly sized egress well, and in some cases, stairs or a ladder must be included to allow for an easy exit.
At WGMB Home Improvement, we have nearly 40 years of experience serving homeowners in the Wyoming area and can make sure your project meets basement egress window code in Michigan.
Why Should You Install Egress Windows in Your Basement?
You have to install escape windows in order to meet building code requirements in Michigan, but that isn’t the only reason to install egress windows in your basement. Egress windows have many additional benefits, including:
- More natural light
- Better ventilation and airflow
- Plenty of customization options
- Added value for your home
Of course, the greatest benefit of installing the proper replacement windows in your finished basement is the peace of mind that comes with knowing your family will be able to get out safely in the event of an emergency.
Schedule Egress Window Installation With the Pros at WMGB Home Improvement
Looking for finished basement window installation in Michigan? Turn to the pros at WMGB Home Improvement. We’ve been in business since 1984 and are a certified egress window installer. Our team can help you choose replacement windows that match your home’s aesthetic and ensure they meet all code and safety requirements.
Give us a call today to schedule a free, no-pressure consultation. We would be happy to answer any questions you have about installing basement windows in Wyoming, Grand Rapids, Holland, Grand Haven, or Kalamazoo, MI.
