Top Egress Window Replacement & Installation in Mount Prospect, Illinois Ranked

Transforming a basement into a safe, legal living space requires a critical safety feature: an egress window. This specialized window provides a secondary means of escape in case of an emergency and is mandated by the Illinois Residential Code for any room legally classified as a bedroom. For homeowners in Mount Prospect, navigating the specific requirements for egress window size, installation, and permitting is essential. This guide will help you understand the local regulations, the installation process, and how to connect with qualified professionals who can ensure your project meets all safety and legal standards.

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 Egress Window Requirements in Illinois

An egress window is not just any basement window. It is a life-saving exit designed to be large enough for a firefighter wearing full gear to enter and for occupants to escape. In Illinois, and specifically in Mount Prospect, these installations are governed by strict building codes to ensure uniformity and safety ^{1 2}.

The core requirements focus on the window's clear opening-the space available when the window is fully open. The Illinois code mandates a minimum clear opening of 5.7 square feet (5.0 sq. ft. if the window is at grade level). This opening must be at least 20 inches wide and 24 inches high ^{1 3 4}. Furthermore, the bottom of the opening (the sill) cannot be more than 44 inches above the finished floor inside the room ^{1 5}. The window must also be operable from the inside without the use of tools, keys, or special knowledge, ensuring a quick exit during a panic situation ^{1 4}.

Mount Prospect's Permit Process for Egress Windows

Installing an egress window in Mount Prospect almost always requires a building permit, as it involves altering the home's structure and footprint. The Village's Building Department enforces the Illinois Residential Code with any local amendments, so checking with them is your first official step ^{6 7}.

The permit process typically involves several stages:

1. Application Submission: You or your contractor will need to submit a completed permit application along with detailed plans. These drawings should show the proposed window's exact location, dimensions, and details of any associated window well ^{6 8}.
2. Plan Review: If your project involves cutting into the concrete foundation or a load-bearing wall, the village may require plans stamped by a licensed structural engineer to verify the home's integrity won't be compromised ^{6 2}.
3. Fee Payment: Permit fees vary based on the project's scope and valuation, often ranging from $50 to over $500, with more complex structural work incurring higher costs ^{6 8}.
4. Inspections: Once the permit is issued, village inspectors will need to visit at key stages, such as after the structural opening is cut and framed, and for a final inspection to approve the completed, operable egress system ^{6 8}.

The Role of Window Wells and Ladders

Since basement windows are often below ground level, a window well is necessary to create the required clear space outside the window. The code specifies that if a well is deeper than 44 inches, it must have a permanently attached ladder or steps for escape ^{1 5}. The well itself must provide a minimum of 9 square feet of area (typically 36 inches wide by 36 inches of projection from the foundation) to allow enough room for a person to climb out ^{3 9}. Proper drainage in the well is also crucial to prevent water from pooling and entering the basement.

Costs Associated with Egress Window Installation

The total investment for an egress window project in Mount Prospect can vary significantly. Key cost factors include:

• Window and Well Materials: The cost for a code-compliant egress window unit and a sturdy, drainage-equipped well typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000+ for materials and basic labor ^{6 8}.
• Structural Work: The most substantial cost variable is the concrete cutting and foundation work. This skilled labor can add significantly to the project total, especially if engineered plans are required ^{6 8}.
• Permits and Professional Services: Budget for the village permit fees and any potential costs for an engineer's stamp or detailed architectural drawings, which can add $500 to $2,000 or more to complex projects ^{6 8}.

Why Professional Installation is Critical for Egress Windows

While some home improvement projects are suitable for DIY, egress window installation is not one of them. The stakes are too high. A professional installer brings expertise in:

• Code Compliance: They understand the nuanced requirements for clear opening, sill height, and operability.
• Structural Integrity: Safely cutting through a foundation wall requires specialized equipment and knowledge to avoid compromising your home's structure or damaging hidden utilities.
• Waterproofing: Proper sealing and drainage are paramount to prevent future basement leaks and water damage.
• Permit Navigation: Experienced contractors are familiar with the Mount Prospect Building Department's requirements and can manage the permit application and inspection process efficiently.

Choosing a licensed and insured professional ensures the job is done right, protecting your home's value and, more importantly, your family's safety.

Transforming Your Basement into a Legal Bedroom

The primary reason homeowners in Mount Prospect invest in an egress window is to create a legal bedroom in the basement. According to code, any room used for sleeping must have a secondary means of egress ^{1 10}. This means if you plan to have a bedroom, guest room, or even a dedicated home office that could be used for overnight guests, an egress window is not optional-it's the law. Each separate sleeping area requires its own compliant egress opening ^{2 10}. Installing one not only increases safety but also significantly boosts your home's functional square footage and market value.

Maintaining Your Egress Window System

Once installed, proper maintenance ensures your egress window remains a reliable safety feature. Regularly check that the window opens smoothly and without obstruction. Keep the window well clear of leaves, snow, and debris to ensure easy access and proper drainage. Test any window well cover to confirm it can be easily opened from the inside. An annual inspection of the seals and the well's drainage gravel can help prevent water intrusion issues.

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