Top Egress Window Replacement & Installation in Westminster, Colorado Ranked

Adding an egress window to your Westminster home is more than just a home improvement project; it's a critical safety upgrade that can transform a basement into a legal, livable bedroom and increase your property's value. These specialized windows provide a secondary means of escape in an emergency and are required by building codes for any basement room used for sleeping. This guide will help you understand the specific requirements, permit process, and considerations for egress window installation in Westminster, so you can confidently find qualified local professionals to handle this important work.

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

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

Egress, Inc.

2963 W 91st Pl, Denver, CO 80260

Egress, Inc. is a family-owned window replacement and egress window contractor based in Denver, CO. They specialize in egress window and window well installations, water mitigation, and replacement windows, serving homeowners and businesses throughout Colorado. With over 25 years of experience, the company uses a skilled in-house team to ensure quality workmanship and offers a 5-year written warranty on all work.

4.9

119 Reviews

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Understanding Egress Window Requirements in Westminster

An egress window is a legally defined emergency escape and rescue opening. In Westminster, these installations are governed by the International Residential Code (IRC), which has been adopted by the state of Colorado and enforced locally ^{1 2}. The primary purpose is to provide a safe exit for occupants and easy access for firefighters during a rescue. This is not just a recommendation-it's a mandatory code for creating legal bedrooms in basements, habitable attics, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) ^{1 3 4}.

Key Code Specifications for Size and Operability

Getting the dimensions and functionality right is non-negotiable. The City of Westminster's Building Division will inspect these points closely.

• Minimum Clear Opening: The net clear opening of the window must be at least 5.7 square feet^{1 5 3}. There is a slight exception: if the window is installed at ground level ("at grade"), the minimum can be 5.0 square feet ^{1 5}.
• Minimum Dimensions: The opening must be no smaller than 20 inches in width and 24 inches in height^{1 5 3}.
• Maximum Sill Height: The bottom of the window opening (the sill) cannot be more than 44 inches above the finished floor of the room ^{1 5 3 2}. This ensures it can be reached and used quickly.
• Operability: The window must open fully from the inside without the use of keys, tools, or special knowledge. If you have security bars over the window, they must be equipped with approved quick-release mechanisms ^{1 5 3}.

The Crucial Role of Window Wells

Since most basement windows in Westminster are below ground level, a window well is an essential companion to any below-grade egress installation. The well creates the accessible space outside the window.

• Minimum Well Area: The well must provide at least 9 square feet of clear area ^{1 5 3}.
• Minimum Projection: The well must extend at least 36 inches from the foundation wall to provide adequate space for exit and rescue ^{1 5 3}.
• Ladders or Steps: If the depth of the window well exceeds 44 inches, a permanently attached ladder or steps are required. These safety features can project up to 6 inches into the required well area ^{1 5 3}.

Navigating Westminster's Permit Process

You will need a permit for egress window work in Westminster. This is especially true if the project involves cutting a new opening in your foundation wall. Skipping the permit process can result in fines, forced removal of the work, and complications when selling your home.

How to Apply for Your Permit

The City of Westminster uses an online system called eTRAKiT for permit applications, which streamlines the process ^{6 7}. You or your contractor will need to submit detailed plans. Required documents typically include:

• Scaled drawings showing the existing structure and the proposed changes.
• A plot plan indicating the window's location on your property.
• Detailed drawings of the foundation work, framing, and window well construction ^{8 6 9}.

You will likely need both a Building Permit and possibly a Miscellaneous Permit for creating a new wall opening ^{8 10}. The city's Building Division staff review these plans for code compliance before issuing the permit.

Understanding Permit Fees and Inspections

Permit fees in Westminster vary based on the project's valuation and complexity. For a standard egress window installation, fees often range from $50 to $500 or more^{8 10}. The cost can increase significantly if the project involves engineering for foundation cutting. Once work begins, the city will require inspections at critical stages, such as after the foundation is cut and framed, and a final inspection to ensure everything meets code ^{8 6}.

Cost Considerations for Egress Window Projects

The total investment for an egress window in Westminster depends heavily on the scope. A simple replacement of an existing window that already meets code will be at the lower end of the cost spectrum. The major expense comes from retrofitting a new opening into a concrete foundation wall, which can add $500 or more to the project due to the labor, materials, and engineering involved ^{8 10 11}. When budgeting, consider the full package: the window unit itself, the cost of cutting and framing the new opening, constructing the window well, installing drainage, obtaining permits, and the professional labor to manage it all seamlessly.

Choosing the Right Professional for the Job

Given the structural and legal complexities, hiring an experienced professional is highly recommended. A qualified installer will not only handle the construction but will also be familiar with Westminster's specific permit process and code interpretations. They can manage the entire project from initial planning and permit application through to final inspection, ensuring your new emergency egress opening is safe, legal, and built to last. Always verify that a contractor is licensed, insured, and has specific experience with egress window retrofits in the Colorado front range area.

The Value Beyond Safety

While safety is the paramount reason for installing an egress window, the benefits extend further. Creating a legal bedroom in your basement can significantly increase your home's functional square footage and market value. It also provides much-needed natural light and ventilation to below-ground spaces, making them more pleasant and healthy to live in. For homeowners considering an ADU, Airbnb, or simply wanting a safe guest room, a properly installed egress window is the foundational step.

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