Top Egress Window Replacement & Installation in Urbandale, Iowa Ranked

Adding an egress window to your basement is one of the most valuable home improvement projects you can undertake in Urbandale. It transforms a dark, non-conforming basement space into a safe, legal, and bright bedroom, office, or living area, significantly increasing your home's value and livable square footage. This process involves cutting a new opening in your foundation wall, installing a code-compliant window and window well, and navigating local permits. This guide will walk you through the specific requirements, costs, and steps for egress window installation in Urbandale, helping you understand what to expect and how to connect with qualified local specialists who can ensure the job is done right.

BAM Basements and Masons of Des Moines

5327 NW 2nd St, Des Moines, IA 50313

BAM Basements and Masons of Des Moines is an egress window contractor based in Des Moines, IA. They specialize in basement waterproofing, foundation repair, egress window installation, crawl space encapsulation, sump pump installation, and concrete leveling. The company uses a unique patented system for basement waterproofing and offers a lifetime warranty that is transferable to new property owners. BAM serves multiple cities in Central Iowa, including Des Moines and surrounding areas. They provide 24/7 emergency chat line availability to support urgent needs.

5.0

251 Reviews

Direct Egress & Construction

1930 E Army Post Rd, Des Moines, IA 50320

Direct Egress & Construction is a family-owned business serving Des Moines, IA, and nearby areas such as Indianola and Adel. With over 30 years of experience, they specialize in residential and commercial construction, remodeling, and egress window installation. Their services include handling all permits and ensuring compliance with local building codes. They focus on quality craftsmanship and provide manufacturer and workmanship warranties. Their expertise in egress window installation includes precise excavation and custom fitting to enhance safety and natural light while preventing issues like water leakage. The company also offers deck design and installation, as well as comprehensive home remodeling services. They manage projects from start to finish, ensuring tailored solutions that meet client needs and local regulations. Direct Egress & Construction provides discounts for seniors and veterans and emphasizes cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.

4.7

56 Reviews

Basement Rehab

2785 NE 46th Ave #400, Des Moines, IA 50317

Basement Rehab is an egress window contractor based in Des Moines, IA. They specialize in basement projects including waterproofing, sump pump installation, foundation and footing work, and egress window installation. Their services aim to improve safety, prevent water damage, and enhance the value of homes. Basement Rehab offers free estimates and serves the local Des Moines area.

4.9

17 Reviews

DBI Foundation Repair

des moines

DBI Foundation Repair is a contractor based in Des Moines, IA, specializing in egress window installation along with foundation repair, waterproofing, and basement solutions. They serve the entire state of Iowa, offering services such as foundation replacement, bracing, sump pump installation, and epoxy flooring. DBI Foundation Repair provides durable and attractive egress windows that enhance safety by providing emergency escape routes, increase natural light and airflow, and add value to homes. The company also addresses major structural issues by repairing or replacing foundations and offers permanent waterproofing solutions to keep basements dry year-round.

4.4

59 Reviews

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Understanding Egress Window Codes in Urbandale

An egress window is not just any basement window; it is a legally mandated emergency escape and rescue opening. In Urbandale, as in all of Iowa, these installations are governed by the International Residential Code (IRC), with specific local enforcement by the Urbandale Building Department ^{1 2}. The primary purpose is to provide a safe exit for occupants and easy access for firefighters during an emergency, particularly in below-grade bedrooms.

Failing to meet these strict specifications can result in a failed inspection, fines, or an unsafe living condition that could hinder a future home sale. The codes are designed with clear, non-negotiable dimensions and operational standards.

Key Size and Operational Requirements

Whether you're planning a new egress window installation or replacing an existing non-compliant one, these are the minimum standards you must meet in Urbandale ^{1 3 4}:

• Minimum Openable Area: The net clear opening of the window itself must be at least 5.7 square feet. Some sources note a minimum of 5.0 square feet for windows entirely below grade, but aiming for 5.7 sq. ft. ensures compliance ^{1 5}.
• Minimum Dimensions: The opening must be at least 20 inches wide and 24 inches high ^{2 6}.
• Maximum Sill Height: The bottom of the openable area cannot be more than 44 inches from the finished floor of the room ^{3 4}. This ensures someone can easily climb out.
• Easy Operation: The window must open fully from the inside without the use of keys, tools, or special knowledge. It should not require more than 35 pounds of force to operate ⁷.

Requirements for the Window Well

If your new basement egress window is below ground level, a window well is required. This well isn't just a hole; it's a critical safety component with its own set of rules ^{1 4}:

• Minimum Well Area: The well must provide at least 9 square feet of horizontal area (e.g., 3 ft. x 3 ft.).
• Minimum Projection: The well must extend at least 36 inches out from the foundation wall.
• Ladder or Steps: If the well depth exceeds 44 inches, the code requires permanent ladder rungs or steps for escape. These must be securely attached and not impede the window's opening ⁶.
• Removable Covers: Any well cover used must be easily removable from the inside without tools.

When is an Egress Window Legally Required?

The most common trigger for needing an egress window installation in Urbandale is the creation of a habitable basement bedroom ⁸. Any room legally defined as a bedroom used for sleeping purposes must have a compliant emergency escape opening. This applies to new construction, finishing an existing basement, or converting a den or storage room into a bedroom.

The Urbandale Permit and Installation Process

Installing an egress window is a significant structural modification. Navigating the permit process correctly is essential to avoid costly mistakes and ensure your new space is legal and safe.

Step 1: Contact the Urbandale Building Department

Your first stop should be the City of Urbandale's official website or a direct call to the Building Department ⁹. Confirm they are operating under the latest IRC code cycle (likely the 2024 edition) and ask for any specific local handouts or requirements for egress window projects. They can clarify if your property has any unique zoning or setback restrictions.

Step 2: Apply for Required Permits

You will typically need two permits: a Building Permit for the window installation and structural work, and an Excavation Permit for digging the window well ^{10 11}. The permit fees in Urbandale for this type of project are estimated to be around $200 in total ^{1 10}. A professional installer will often handle this paperwork for you, which can streamline approvals.

Step 3: Professional Assessment and Structural Plans

Cutting a large opening in your concrete foundation wall is not a DIY project for most homeowners. It requires careful planning to avoid compromising your home's structural integrity. A qualified contractor will assess the location, checking for underground utilities, drainage patterns, and the foundation's composition. Often, the city will require structural plans signed by a licensed professional engineer, especially for larger openings or certain foundation types. Engineering services typically cost between $100 and $200 per hour ^{1 10}.

Step 4: Installation and Inspections

A professional installation involves several key stages:

1. Excavation: Carefully digging out the area for the window well.
2. Concrete Cutting: Using professional saws to create a clean, precise opening in the foundation.
3. Window and Well Installation: Setting the window frame, installing the window unit, and placing the well liner with proper drainage gravel at the base.
4. Waterproofing: Applying sealants and membranes to prevent future water intrusion-a critical step in Iowa's climate.
5. Finishing: Installing the well ladder/grating and finishing the interior trim.

The City of Urbandale will schedule mandatory inspections at critical phases, such as after excavation, after the rough window framing is in, and a final inspection once everything is complete ^{2 11}.

Cost Considerations for Egress Windows in Urbandale

The total investment for an egress window project varies based on the window style, well size, foundation thickness, and labor rates. While it's a significant upfront cost, it's an investment that often yields a high return by adding a legal bedroom.

• Permit Fees: ~$200 (estimated) ^{1 10}.
• Structural Engineering: $100-$200+ per hour if required ^{1 10}.
• Materials & Labor: This is the bulk of the cost, covering the egress window unit (often a sliding or casement style), the metal or composite window well, concrete cutting equipment, waterproofing materials, backfill, and professional labor.
• Total Project Cost: While prices can vary widely, homeowners should expect a professional egress window installation in Urbandale to cost several thousand dollars ¹². Getting multiple detailed quotes from licensed and insured local contractors is the best way to understand the market rate for your specific home.

Hiring a pro who specializes in egress windows often costs more upfront but saves time, ensures code compliance, manages the permit process, and provides crucial warranties on both the materials and the waterproofing work ¹¹.

Choosing the Right Egress Window Professional

Given the technical and regulatory complexity, selecting the right contractor is paramount. Look for a local Urbandale professional with specific, verifiable experience in egress window installations. They should be familiar with the Urbandale Building Department's inspectors and processes. A reputable contractor will:

• Provide a detailed, written estimate that breaks down all costs.
• Pull the necessary permits on your behalf.
• Explain the installation process and timeline clearly.
• Carry both liability insurance and workers' compensation.
• Offer strong references and examples of past egress window projects.

Pro-Tip: Utilize local resources like the City of Urbandale's official website handouts section for guidance and seek out contractors who are established in the community and can navigate the local codes with confidence ^{1 9}.

Frequently asked questions

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