Does a basement living room need a window?

In most cases, the answer is yes. A finished basement project must incorporate an Egress window if any portion of the space will be used as a bedroom, or if you are creating another habitable space (a family room, for example) that does not already have an Egress window or a door.

Can a sliding window be used for egress?

Sliding Window Sliding windows are a very popular window type used for egress where the panes of glass slide along a track at the top and bottom of the window frame. Strengths: Since sliding windows are not hinged, you do not need to worry about maintaining any clearance for a swinging sash.

What makes a legal basement bedroom?

Two forms of egress In addition to a door into the main home or yard, a basement bedroom must include an egress window meeting these requirements set by the International Building Code: 24 inches in height. No higher than 44 inches above the floor. “Open from the inside without tools or keys”

What is the minimum size for a fire escape window?

An opening that is required for means of escape should have a clear unobstructed opening area of 0.33 m² and a minimum width or height of 450mm. For example, if a width of 450 mm is proposed then the height should be at least 733 mm in order to give the area of 0.33 m².

Can two bedrooms share an egress window?

However, if your maximum occupancy is more than 10 (in an R-1 structure), you are required to have two egress exits. Two bedrooms with dedicated entry doors and a conjoining doorway should be sufficient. The additional window is a bonus in the one bedroom.

Can I use a casement window for egress?

Casement windows—with hinged sashes that swing free and clear of the opening—can be relatively small and still meet egress requirements. This makes them ideal for basement egress and for other areas where space is limited. The overall size of this “smallest” egress casement window is 8 sq. ft.

What is the legal size for a basement window?

3.8 square feet
The Quebec Building Code requires that the opening be at least 3.8 square feet and more than 15 inches in height and width. But 15 inches in height would require a width of nearly 36 inches to meet the minimum area (some cities in Quebec have higher requirements).

Can a single hung window meet egress?

The casement window with the washability hinge is an outstanding window to meet egress with windows with widths of 3 feet and heights between 42” and 60”. The Elite Single hung or double hung windows do not meet the height restrictions of the egress for small windows with less than 66” heights.

Does every room need an escape window?

To meet current Building Regulations for new build, all habitable rooms should have a means of escape: – Ground floor rooms need a fire escape window/door or direct access to a hallway leading directly to a fire escape window/door. – First floor rooms, not more than 4.5m above ground level, need a fire escape window.