If you’re thinking about getting a new window well, you’ve probably thought about code compliance, particularly if you live in the city.
The purpose of an egress window is to serve as an escape window during a fire. It could literally save your family’s life. Because of its important role in your family’s safety, there are certain standards for code compliance and engineering.
It’s important to note that the state of Kansas uses the 2006 International Building Code, while individual cities may use later versions. For instance, Wichita uses the 2012 IRC. For our discussion here, we’ll explain the 2012 code.
Both the window well and the window have specific code requirements.
The Egress Window Code
Basement egress windows must have a minimum width of 20 inches and a minimum height of 24 inches. The total area of the opening has to be at least 5.7 square feet.
We offer 30 x 48, 28x46, 31x41, and 48x48 inch windows to our clients. Besides offering improved safety, these windows let in more natural light.
Window Well Code
The horizontal area of the window well (the “floor”) needs to be at least 9 square feet. For example, a window well could be 36x36 inches. Our standard well has 12 square feet.
An egress ladder is required if the depth of the window well is more than 44 inches. There are additional specific requirements for the rung spacing of the ladder, and more.
Covers are required in most cities, but they have to allow at least the required 5 square feet of egress space when in the open position. Additionally, they have to be releasable or removable from the inside of the window well.
Disclaimer
There are more nuances of the code, so consult an expert and read the code for yourself if you’re planning to install a window well yourself.
Here at Illumicast, we’ve engineered our system to fully comply with all International Building Codes for egress window wells. You can sleep well at night, knowing that your Illumicast window well will be ready when you need it most.
To request a quote, give us a call at 620-200-0616.