Best Egress Window Replacement & Installation in Illinois Ranked

An egress window is a critical safety feature, legally required in any basement bedroom or habitable space. It provides a large, easily accessible emergency exit and allows emergency personnel to enter. In Illinois, these installations are governed by specific building codes that dictate the window's size, how it opens, and the accompanying window well. This guide explains the Illinois requirements and typical project considerations to help you understand what's needed for a safe, code-compliant installation in your home.

Porcayo's Custom Window Well Covers

chicago

Porcayo's Custom Window Well Covers in Chicago, IL specializes in custom-built window well covers, egress window installations, and window repairs. They offer durable, weather-resistant covers tailored to fit any window well size, including custom metal grates and clear polycarbonate options. Their services include permit handling, installation, maintenance, and replacement of basement windows and window wells, serving residential customers across Chicagoland and nearby areas.

5.0

74 Reviews

Legacy Glass Block & Window Co.

chicago

Legacy Glass Block & Window Co. is a window replacement and glass block company based in Chicago, IL. They specialize in customized window installations, including egress and basement windows, using advanced construction techniques. The company serves clients seeking both window replacements and exterior glass block solutions.

5.0

63 Reviews

Gilkey Replacement Window Company - Chicago

10160 Virginia Ave, Chicago Ridge, IL 60415

Gilkey Replacement Window Company - Chicago is a window replacement and door installation provider based in Chicago, IL. They specialize in U.S.-made windows designed for energy efficiency, security, and durability, including casement, double-hung, and picture windows. Their services also include sliding patio doors and customizable entry doors, serving residential properties throughout the greater Chicago area.

4.8

301 Reviews

U.S. Waterproofing

81 Remington Rd, Schaumburg, IL 60173

U.S. Waterproofing is a family-operated egress window contractor based in Chicago, IL, specializing in basement waterproofing and foundation repair. They provide comprehensive solutions including window wells with custom covers and drainage systems designed for Midwest soil and weather conditions. Serving residential properties throughout the greater Midwest area, they bring over 65 years of experience to protect homes from water damage and foundation issues.

4.6

1.4k Reviews

Continental Window & Glass

4311 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60641

Continental Window & Glass is a family-owned window replacement and sliding glass door company located in Chicago, IL. Established in 1989, they manufacture high-quality vinyl windows and patio doors using advanced German and Italian machinery. Their product range includes double-hung, sliding, awning, bay, casement, custom-shaped, and glass block windows, as well as patio doors. They specialize in energy-efficient Eco-Thermal vinyl windows with weather-tight seals and options like Low-E glass with Argon gas to improve insulation.

4.2

107 Reviews

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Understanding Illinois Egress Window Codes

Illinois follows the International Residential Code (IRC), with local municipalities having the authority to add amendments. The core purpose of the code is to provide a safe escape route during a fire or other emergency. For any room classified as a sleeping room or habitable space below the fourth story, a compliant egress window is mandatory ^{1 2}.

The requirements are precise and cover four main areas: the opening size, the window's operation, the sill height, and the window well.

Minimum Opening Size and Dimensions

The clear opening of the window must be at least 5.7 square feet. For openings at grade level, the minimum can be 5.0 square feet ^{1 3}. This is the unobstructed space you can climb through.

• Minimum Dimensions: The opening must be at least 20 inches wide and 24 inches high ^{1 4}. These are minimums; the clear opening must still meet the 5.7 sq. ft. area. A common compliant size is 24 inches by 36 inches.
• Clear Opening: This measurement is taken with the window in the fully open position. It does not include the space taken up by the window frame, sash, or any screens or bars that cannot be removed without tools.

Maximum Sill Height and Operation

• Sill Height: The bottom of the clear opening cannot be more than 44 inches above the finished floor ^{1 3 5}. This ensures that children, older adults, or injured persons can reasonably reach and use the window in an emergency.
• Operation: The window must be operable from the inside without the use of keys, tools, or special knowledge^{2 4}. Locks must be simple, like a latch or sliding lock. The window should open smoothly and reliably.

Window Well Requirements (For Below-Grade Installations)

If the egress window is below ground level, a window well is required to create the exit path.

• Well Size: The well must provide a minimum of 9 square feet of horizontal area (e.g., 36 inches by 36 inches) ^{1 3 5}. This gives a person enough space to stand and maneuver to climb out.
• Ladder or Steps: If the depth of the well exceeds 44 inches, the code requires a permanently attached ladder or steps ^{3 4}. Rungs must be within 18 inches of the well wall and not project more than 3 inches.
• Drainage: Proper drainage is essential to prevent water accumulation and flooding into the basement. Wells should have a drain connected to the home's foundation drainage system or gravel at the base.

Cost Factors for Egress Window Projects in Illinois

The total cost for an egress window replacement or new installation in Illinois varies significantly, typically ranging from $2,500 to $8,500 or more per unit^{6 7}. This wide range is due to several key factors:

• Window Size and Style: A basic, code-minimum vinyl casement window will be at the lower end of the cost spectrum. Larger custom sizes (e.g., 36" x 60") or styles like double-hung will increase the price. Material choice also plays a role, with wood frames generally costing more than vinyl or composite ^{6 7}.
• Installation Complexity: This is often the largest cost driver. It includes cutting through the foundation wall (which may involve sawing concrete or masonry), installing a steel or vinyl lintel for support, and properly sealing and waterproofing the new opening. The condition of your foundation and the presence of utilities can add complexity.
• Window Well Construction: The cost of excavating, installing a metal or plastic well liner, adding gravel for drainage, and installing a permanent ladder (if needed) adds to the project total. Custom covers or grates are an additional expense.
• Interrier Finishing: After installation, interior work like reframing the rough opening, installing trim, and repairing drywall and flooring around the new window will add to labor and material costs.

The Installation Process: What to Expect

A professional egress window installation is a major construction project. Understanding the steps can help you prepare your home and ask the right questions.

1. Site Assessment and Permitting: A qualified contractor will assess your basement layout, foundation type, and exterior conditions. They will help you determine the best location and apply for the necessary building permits from your local municipality, which will include a plan review to ensure code compliance ⁵.
2. Exterior Excavation: The crew will excavate the area outside the foundation down to the footing level where the window will be placed. This creates space to work on the foundation and install the well.
3. Cutting the Foundation: Using a concrete saw or other specialized equipment, a precise opening is cut into the foundation wall. A steel lintel is installed above the opening to support the weight of the structure above.
4. Window and Well Installation: The window unit is placed into the new opening, leveled, sealed, and secured. The window well is positioned in the excavation, connected to the foundation drain or given a gravel base, and backfilled around the sides.
5. Interior Finishing: Inside, the rough opening is framed, insulation is added, and the window interior is trimmed out. Any disrupted drywall, paint, or flooring is repaired.
6. Final Inspection: Once work is complete, a municipal building inspector will visit to verify the installation meets all Illinois and local egress code requirements before the project is officially closed.

Choosing the Right Window and Professional

Not every window is suitable for egress. Casement and awning windows are popular choices because their design allows the entire sash to open, maximizing the clear opening. Sliding and double-hung windows can work but require careful sizing to ensure the open portion meets the minimum requirements.

Selecting a knowledgeable professional is crucial. Look for a licensed contractor with specific experience in egress window installations. They should be familiar with the IRC and your local town's amendments. Ask for references, proof of insurance, and a detailed written estimate that breaks down costs for the window, well, labor, permits, and finishing work. A reputable pro will always pull the proper permits, as this ensures your safety and protects your home's value.

Maintaining Your Egress Window

Once installed, simple maintenance ensures your egress window remains a reliable safety feature:

• Keep the window's operating hardware clean and lubricated so it opens easily.
• Ensure the window well is kept clear of leaves, snow, and debris.
• Check the well cover (if installed) for damage and ensure it can be easily lifted from the inside.
• Inspect the well drainage annually, especially after heavy rains, to prevent water backup.

Investing in a properly installed egress window not only brings your basement space up to legal code but, more importantly, provides peace of mind by creating a vital escape route for your family.

Frequently asked questions

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