Top Egress Window Replacement & Installation in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Ranked

Adding an egress window or replacing an existing one in Philadelphia is a critical home improvement project that enhances safety, increases living space, and can add significant value to your property. These specialized windows are not just any basement window; they are a legally required means of escape and rescue in sleeping rooms below grade. Understanding Philadelphia's specific building codes, permit requirements, and installation complexities is essential for a successful project. This guide will help you navigate the process, from code compliance to finding qualified local professionals for your egress window installation.

Jamison Basement Waterproofing

1429 Ulmer Ave b, Oreland, PA 19075

Jamison Basement Waterproofing is a Philadelphia, PA-based contractor specializing in basement waterproofing, foundation repair, and egress window installation. Serving the Greater Philadelphia area and tri-state region, they provide moisture control, sump pump installation, crawl space encapsulation, and masonry services. With over 35 years of experience, they focus on creating dry, healthy, and energy-efficient basements and crawl spaces for homeowners.

5.0

1.5k Reviews

Basement Gurus

431 Rhawn St, Philadelphia, PA 19111

Basement Gurus is a basement waterproofing contractor based in Philadelphia, PA, specializing in waterproofing, mold remediation, and basement finishing. They provide solutions such as sump pumps, French drains, and crawl space encapsulation to keep basements dry and safe. Their services cater primarily to homeowners looking to protect and improve their residential properties.

4.8

366 Reviews

Worthington Foundation Authority

601 Gawain Rd, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462

Worthington Foundation Authority is a Philadelphia, PA-based contractor specializing in foundation repair, basement egress installation, and waterproofing. They provide comprehensive solutions including large, high-velocity drainage systems and sump pumps designed to keep basements dry and foundations secure. With over 65 years of experience serving the Delaware Valley, they focus on creating healthy, dry environments for homeowners.

4.9

73 Reviews

MAC Waterproofing

1421 Green Valley Rd #3562, Norristown, PA 19401

MAC Waterproofing is a Philadelphia, PA-based contractor specializing in egress window installation and comprehensive basement waterproofing services. They offer custom egress window design and installation, including window wells and permit assistance, ensuring code compliance and enhanced basement safety. Their services also include foundation repair, drainage solutions, and concrete restoration, serving residential properties across Philadelphia and surrounding counties.

4.9

38 Reviews

Basements Love Us

3653 Salmon St, Philadelphia, PA 19134

Basements Love Us is a family-owned and operated contractor based in Philadelphia, PA, specializing in basement waterproofing, mold remediation, structural repairs, and egress window installation. They serve residential clients across New Jersey, Eastern Pennsylvania, and Delaware, offering comprehensive solutions including sump pump and French drain installation, foundation repair, and crawl space encapsulation. The company is fully licensed and insured, with over 20 years of combined experience and a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

4.0

8 Reviews

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Understanding Egress Window Requirements in Philadelphia

In Philadelphia, all egress window installations must comply with the Pennsylvania Uniform Construction Code (UCC), which is based on the International Residential Code (IRC) ¹. These regulations are enforced by the Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections (L&I) and are designed to ensure a safe exit for occupants and easy entry for firefighters during an emergency ^{2 3}.

The core requirements for a legal egress opening are precise:

• Minimum Clear Opening: The net clear opening of the window itself must be at least 5.7 square feet (820 square inches). If the window is at grade level (where the bottom of the well is even with the ground outside), the minimum is reduced to 5.0 square feet ^{1 4 5}.
• Minimum Dimensions: The opening must be at least 20 inches wide and 24 inches high ^{1 6 7}.
• Maximum Sill Height: The bottom (sill) of the opening cannot be more than 44 inches above the finished floor inside the room ^{1 4 5}.
• Operability: The window must be operable from the inside without the use of tools, keys, or special knowledge. It should open fully and easily ^{1 6}.

If the window is below ground level, a window well is required. The well must provide a minimum of 9 square feet of area (e.g., 3 ft. x 3 ft.) and project at least 36 inches horizontally from the window ^{1 5 7}. For wells deeper than 44 inches, permanent steps or a ladder must be installed to allow escape ^{4 5}.

When is an Egress Window Legally Required?

The most common reason homeowners in Philly undertake this project is to create a legal bedroom in the basement. According to Pennsylvania code, any room used for sleeping must have a secondary means of egress, which is typically an egress window ⁸. This means:

• Creating a Legal Bedroom: To officially list a basement room as a bedroom, it must have a compliant egress window. This can significantly increase your home's value and functionality.
• Multiple Sleeping Rooms: If you plan to have more than one sleeping room in the basement, each room requires its own egress window ⁹.
• Safety Beyond Code: Even if not required for a bedroom, installing an egress window in a finished basement or family room is a wise safety upgrade for your family.

Beyond escape, these windows also provide crucial natural light and ventilation, transforming dark, damp basements into pleasant, livable spaces.

The Philadelphia Permit Process

Virtually all egress window projects in Philadelphia require a permit from L&I. This is not a step to skip, as unpermitted work can lead to fines, complications when selling your home, and potential safety issues ^{2 10}.

• When a Permit is Needed: A permit is required any time you are altering the structure of your home, such as cutting or enlarging a foundation wall to create a new window opening or modifying an existing one. Simply replacing a window sash in an existing, code-compliant opening may qualify for a simpler "EZ Permit" if it meets specific energy standards, but creating an egress opening does not ^{10 11}.
• The Application: The standard permit process involves submitting an application, site plans, construction drawings detailing the proposed work, and payment of fees. The complexity often necessitates working with a licensed contractor who is familiar with L&I's requirements ^{2 11}.
• Permit Costs: Fees for egress window permits in Philadelphia typically range from $50 to $500, depending on the project's valuation and complexity ^{2 11}.

Cost Considerations for Egress Window Installation

The total cost of an egress window project in Philadelphia is highly variable, often ranging from $1,000 to over $5,000 ^{11 12}. This wide range is due to several key factors:

• Window Cost: The price of the egress window unit itself (often a casement or sliding style that meets size requirements).
• Structural Work: The most significant cost driver is usually the labor and materials required to cut through the foundation wall, which may involve masonry, concrete work, and structural support (lintel installation).
• Window Well: The cost of excavating and installing a prefabricated or masonry window well, including drainage gravel.
• Well Ladder/Steps: If the well is deep, adding permanent steps or a ladder.
• Interior Finishing: Repairing and finishing the interior wall around the new window.

Given these variables, it's crucial to get detailed, written estimates from several licensed and insured contractors who specialize in this type of structural work.

Choosing the Right Professional in Philadelphia

Installing an egress window is a complex job that blends masonry, carpentry, and waterproofing expertise. Look for a contractor with:

• Proven Experience: Specific experience with egress window installations in Philadelphia, not just general window replacement.
• Knowledge of Local Codes: Familiarity with Philadelphia L&I processes and the PA UCC egress requirements.
• Proper Licensing & Insurance: Ensure they are licensed to work in Philadelphia and carry liability and workers' compensation insurance.
• Portfolio & References: Ask to see photos of completed projects and speak to past clients.

A reputable professional will handle the permit application process, ensure the installation meets all code requirements for inspection, and provide a clear contract outlining the scope of work, materials, timeline, and payment schedule.

Planning Your Project: Key Steps

1. Determine Need: Decide if you are creating a legal bedroom or simply adding a safety feature.
2. Assess Location: Identify the best wall for the installation, considering exterior obstructions, interior layout, and drainage.
3. Consult a Pro: Contact local Philadelphia contractors for an on-site consultation. They can assess feasibility, provide accurate measurements, and discuss code compliance.
4. Review Quotes: Obtain and compare 2-3 detailed estimates. Ensure each includes line items for the permit, window, well, excavation, structural work, and interior/exterior finishing.
5. Secure Permits: Your chosen contractor should typically pull the required permits from L&I before any work begins.
6. Schedule Installation: Plan for the excavation and construction work, which can be disruptive and messy but is usually completed within a few days.
7. Final Inspection: After installation, the work will need to be inspected by L&I to receive final approval ^{3 13}.

Taking the time to plan your egress window project carefully and work with qualified experts is the best way to ensure a safe, code-compliant, and valuable addition to your Philadelphia home.

Frequently asked questions

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