Top Egress Window Replacement & Installation in Denver, Colorado Ranked

Adding an egress window to your Denver basement is more than just a home improvement project; it's a critical safety upgrade that can transform a dark storage area into a legal, livable bedroom or family space. These specialized windows provide a secondary escape route in case of an emergency, such as a fire, and are required by Denver building codes for any habitable room in a basement. This guide will help you understand the local requirements, process, and what to look for when finding qualified professionals to handle your egress window installation or replacement.

HomeStrong

6398 Franklin St, Denver, CO 80216

HomeStrong is a family-owned foundation repair and basement waterproofing contractor based in Denver, CO. They provide comprehensive services including foundation repair, basement waterproofing, crawl space repair, concrete repair, and egress window installation. Their expertise includes proven waterproofing techniques and concrete crack repair to protect and enhance residential properties.

5.0

302 Reviews

Top Star Egress & Services

denver

Top Star Egress & Services is a Denver, CO-based company specializing in egress window installation and window replacement. They provide code-compliant, safe, and stylish solutions including window well replacement, concrete cutting, core drilling, and excavation services. With over 10 years of experience and full licensing and insurance, they serve homeowners throughout Denver and surrounding areas.

5.0

180 Reviews

ItIsWell Egress

denver

ItIsWell Egress is a window repair and replacement company based in Denver, CO, specializing in egress basement windows and window well installations. They provide services including window well replacement, basement window replacement, and window well covers, serving the Denver Metro area. The company emphasizes quality workmanship and customer satisfaction through clear communication and professional service.

5.0

162 Reviews

Liftech Concrete Leveling & Foundation Repair

12870 W Alameda Pkwy, Lakewood, CO 80228

Liftech Concrete Leveling & Foundation Repair is a Denver, CO-based contractor specializing in foundation repair, concrete leveling, waterproofing, and egress window installation. They handle residential and commercial projects, offering comprehensive solutions including concrete lifting and basement waterproofing. Liftech is known for using high-quality repair methods and ensuring compliance with local building codes for egress windows.

4.9

1.1k Reviews

Basement Windows Of Denver

denver

Basement Windows Of Denver is a window replacement and egress window contractor based in Denver, CO. They specialize in installing code-compliant basement and egress windows with stamped engineering approval. The company offers custom window designs with a focus on safety, aesthetics, and quality craftsmanship.

5.0

73 Reviews

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Understanding Denver's Egress Window Code

In Denver, the rules for egress windows are specific and strictly enforced to ensure life safety. An egress window is not just any basement window; it is a designated emergency exit that must meet precise dimensional and operational standards set by the International Residential Code (IRC) and adopted by the City and County of Denver ^{1 2}.

The primary purpose is to allow residents, including emergency responders, to enter or exit the basement easily. For this reason, the code dictates everything from the size of the opening to the accessibility of the window well outside.

Key Size and Operational Requirements

The most critical specifications for any egress window in Denver are its clear opening dimensions. These are non-negotiable for creating a legal bedroom or living space.

• Minimum Clear Opening: The net openable area of the window must be at least 5.7 square feet^{1 3}. For windows at ground level, this minimum can be 5.0 square feet ⁴.
• Minimum Dimensions: The opening must be no smaller than 20 inches in width and 24 inches in height^{1 2}.
• Maximum Sill Height: The bottom of the window opening cannot be more than 44 inches above the finished floor of the basement ^{1 3}. This ensures someone can easily climb out.
• Unobstructed Operation: The window must be openable from the inside without the use of keys, tools, or special knowledge. Simple latches or cranks are standard ^{2 5}.

Egress Window Well Specifications

Since most Denver basement windows are below ground, a window well is almost always required. The well itself must also meet code to be a safe and usable escape path.

• Well Size: The horizontal area of the well must be a minimum of 9 square feet, with a minimum projection from the foundation of 36 inches^{1 2}. This provides enough space for a person to stand and maneuver.
• Ladder or Steps: If the depth of the window well exceeds 44 inches, a permanently attached ladder or steps are mandatory for safe egress ^{1 2 6}.
• Drainage: Proper drainage at the bottom of the well is crucial to prevent water accumulation and potential basement flooding.

The Permit Process in Denver

Installing an egress window is not a DIY project you can start without approval. Because it involves cutting into your home's foundation-a structural element-a building permit is required ^{1 7}. Skipping this step can lead to fines, difficulties when selling your home, and, most importantly, an unsafe installation.

Step-by-Step Permit Guide

1. Application: You or your contractor must submit a building permit application to the Denver Community Planning and Development department. This includes detailed plans.
2. Plans and Drawings: You'll need to provide scaled, dimensioned drawings showing the proposed location, window specifications, well details, and any structural modifications ^{1 7}.
3. Historic District Review: This is a critical step for many Denver homes. If your property is located in a historic district (like Capitol Hill, Baker, or Five Points), you must also submit a Landmark Design Review application⁷. This process requires current, labeled photographs of the exterior where the work will occur and approval from the Landmark Preservation office before a building permit is issued.
4. Inspections: Once the permit is granted and work begins, a city inspector will visit to verify the rough opening and final installation comply with all code requirements for size, operation, and safety ¹.

Egress Window Replacement vs. New Installation

It's important to distinguish between replacing an existing basement window and creating a brand-new egress opening.

• New Installation: This involves cutting a new opening in your concrete or block foundation wall. It is a more involved construction project that always requires a permit and must be designed to meet all current code dimensions from the start ^{1 6}.
• Replacement: If you are replacing an existing egress window, the goal is to install a new unit that meets code. Sometimes, if the existing rough opening frame is sound and to code, a new window of the same size can be installed. However, if the old window does not meet current 5.7 sq. ft. standards, the opening may need to be enlarged, which brings it into the realm of a more complex modification ⁵.

Cost Considerations for Denver Homeowners

The total investment for an egress window project in Denver varies widely based on several factors. Generally, homeowners can expect a total project cost ranging from $3,000 to over $6,000+ per window ^{8 9}. Key factors influencing the price include:

• Foundation Work: Cutting through a concrete foundation is the most labor-intensive and costly part, especially if rebar is encountered.
• Window Size and Type: Larger, high-quality windows (like casement or sliding windows that meet egress standards) cost more.
• Window Well Construction: The need for a deep well, a custom-sized well, a ladder, and proper drainage adds to the cost.
• Interior Finishing: Repairing and finishing the interior wall around the new window.
• Permit and Design Fees: The cost of the permit itself and any potential architectural drawings or landmark review fees.
• Professional Installation: Hiring an experienced, licensed, and insured contractor is essential for a safe, code-compliant, and waterproof result. Their expertise is a significant part of the project value ^{10 9}.

Choosing the Right Professional

Given the structural and safety implications, selecting the right contractor is paramount. Look for professionals with specific experience in Denver egress window projects. They should be intimately familiar with local codes, the permit process (especially historic district rules), and the challenges of working with Colorado foundations. A reputable pro will handle the permit paperwork, provide clear contracts, and ensure the final work passes city inspection.

Frequently asked questions

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