Top Egress Window Replacement & Installation in Waukegan, Illinois Ranked

Adding an egress window or replacing an existing one is a critical home improvement project that transforms a basement into a safe, legal, and comfortable living space. These specialized emergency escape and rescue openings are required by law for any basement bedroom or converted living area, providing a vital exit during a fire or other emergency. For Waukegan homeowners, navigating the specific local building codes and structural requirements is essential. This guide will help you understand the key regulations, the permitting process, and how to find qualified local professionals to ensure your project is safe, compliant, and adds value to your home.

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 Waukegan

Egress windows are not just any basement window. They are a life-safety feature mandated by the International Residential Code (IRC), which has been adopted by the City of Waukegan ¹. The primary purpose of an emergency egress window is to provide a secondary means of escape from sleeping areas and to allow firefighters easy access for rescue. If you are finishing your basement to add a bedroom, a family room, or a rental unit, installing a compliant egress opening is not optional-it's a legal requirement for occupancy.

The rules are specific and non-negotiable. In Waukegan, as per the 2021 IRC, every basement bedroom must have an egress window ^{2 3}. This rule also applies to other finished living spaces in the basement or even converted attics used for sleeping ³. Simply having a small, traditional basement window is insufficient; the opening must meet precise dimensional and operational standards to qualify as a true means of egress.

Waukegan's Specific Code Dimensions

Knowing the exact measurements is the first step in planning your basement egress window installation. The City of Waukegan follows the 2021 IRC, which sets forth the following minimum standards for these emergency escape openings ^{2 4 5}:

• Minimum Opening Area: The clear, openable space must be at least 5.7 square feet. For basement and grade-level windows, the code allows a minimum of 5.0 square feet ^{2 6}.
• Minimum Dimensions: The opening must be at least 24 inches high and 20 inches wide. Both dimensions must be met simultaneously to achieve the required area ^{4 7}.
• Maximum Sill Height: The bottom of the clear opening cannot be more than 44 inches above the finished floor of the room. This ensures occupants, including children and elderly individuals, can easily climb out ^{5 8}.
• Operability: The window must open fully from the inside without the use of special tools, keys, or excessive force. Most qualifying styles are casement or sliding windows that provide the full clear opening ⁹.

The Critical Role of Window Wells

Since basement windows are below ground level, an egress window is almost always paired with a window well. The well creates the exterior space needed for the window to open fully and for a person to exit. Waukegan's building code has specific requirements for these wells as well ^{5 7}:

• Minimum Well Size: The window well must provide a minimum of 9 square feet of horizontal area (e.g., 36 inches by 36 inches).
• Ladder or Steps Required: If the depth of the window well exceeds 44 inches, the code mandates the installation of a permanently attached ladder or steps to facilitate escape. The ladder must not encroach on the minimum required dimensions of the well ⁹.

Choosing the right well-whether a standard metal corrugated well, a more durable fiberglass model, or a custom-built stone well-is an important decision that affects drainage, maintenance, and the overall safety of the egress system.

The Waukegan Permit Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Installing an egress window is a structural modification to your home's foundation. As such, a building permit from the City of Waukegan is absolutely mandatory ^{10 11 1}. Skipping this step can result in fines, an unsafe installation, and major problems when you try to sell your home. The process is designed to ensure the work meets all safety codes.

1. Initial Contact: Your first step should be to contact the Waukegan Building Department. Inquire about the specific application procedures and current fee schedules for building permits related to foundation cutting and window installation ¹.
2. Hire a Structural Engineer: This is a critical and often required step. Because you are cutting an opening in your concrete foundation wall, a licensed structural engineer must assess the load and design an appropriate header or support system. They will create stamped structural drawings that are submitted with your permit application ^{10 11}.
3. Prepare Documentation: Gather the required documents, which typically include:
   • Completed building permit application form.
   • Site plan showing the property and the exact location of the new window.
   • Stamped structural drawings from your engineer.
   • A detailed scope of work description.
   • Product specifications for the window and well system.
4. Submit and Pay: Submit your complete application packet to the Building Department and pay the associated permit fees. These fees can vary but often range from $50 to $500 depending on the project's valuation and complexity ^{10 12}.
5. Await Inspection: Once the permit is approved and work begins, the city will require inspections at key stages-typically after the hole is cut and the header is installed, and again at project completion.

Choosing the Right Egress Window and Professional

With the technical requirements in mind, selecting the right window style and a qualified installer is paramount. Common window styles that meet egress codes include casement windows (which crank open to provide the full clear area) and certain large horizontal sliders. The window must be rated for below-grade installation to withstand moisture and soil pressure.

Finding a professional experienced in egress window installation in the Waukegan area is crucial. This is not a standard window replacement job. Look for contractors who:

• Explicitly list egress window services.
• Are familiar with Waukegan's specific permit process and building codes.
• Have a network that includes structural engineers.
• Provide clear, detailed quotes that break down costs for the window, well, excavation, concrete work, engineering, permits, and labor.

Cost Considerations for Your Project

The total investment for an egress window installation in Waukegan varies widely based on the window type, well material, foundation conditions, and labor. While product and labor are the largest costs, don't forget the necessary professional services and permits. Key cost components include:

• Permit Fees: As noted, budget between $50 and $500 for the city permit ^{10 12}.
• Structural Engineer: This is a necessary expense for the stamped plans. Engineers typically charge $100 to $200+ per hour, with the total cost depending on the complexity of the design ^{11 12}.
• Window, Well, and Installation: This is the most variable cost, encompassing the window unit, the well, excavation, concrete cutting and finishing, drainage gravel, and labor. Getting multiple detailed quotes from local specialists is the best way to understand this portion of the budget.

Investing in a properly permitted and code-compliant egress window system not only ensures the safety of your household but also adds legitimate living space and increases your home's value. It turns a dark basement into a bright, legal, and functional part of your home.

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