Furthermore most building codes require that basement egress windows open completely and provide at least 9 square feet of floor area. In todays article wmgb home improvement the trusted egress window expert explains what a basement window well is and why its important. If the steel surround is not at least 2 above soil level ground water may run into the window well.
ground level basement windows below ground level basement windows
If your egress window will open below a deck or porch.
Ground level basement windows. The window well at above left looks nice and neat. If your home features a basement with windows at or just below ground level chances are you also have window wells. Double hung windows work best in fully above ground basements. Its important to have a source of natural light and fresh air in a downstairs room but windows at ground level are prone to springing leaks.
Raised bungalow homes have above ground basements that often have large windows in the front and a patio in the back. Dig about 2 feet below each basement window sill and fill each hole with crushed stone that is about 12 inch in size if you would rather not use window well covers. For example if you have an underground basement as opposed to a split level basement you will also need to replace your window well and attach a ladder to the back of the well for easy exit to ground level. Above ground basements are usually not as cool in hot weather.
Keep a space of about 3 inches. These semi circular cut outs surround your windows allowing light into the basement. Soil level in a window well needs to be about 4 below the top of the soil. Basement bars vent enter search how to make your basement warmer how to install a window well 14 s custom window well covers egress water filling up in my window.
In the case of a partially above ground basement a hopper or awning window might be a better option. Above ground basements have the entry right at ground level. Sliding windows are easy to open. This is often the case if the window well itself sits more than 44 inches below ground level.
A window well is a curved piece of steel insert with corrugated pipe that is used to attempt to block moisture from the window area when it is below grade level and drain away water that enters the area. An above ground basement is often called a walk out basement since you can just step outside at the front door with no stairs. Consider window wells for your basement windows. Youd probably recognize a window well even if it doesnt sound familiar.
But like any home system window wells require maintenance and professional implementation. They still will function properly in a partially above ground basement but it might not look right on your home. A raised bungalow usually has an entry that is between the basement and the first floor with stairs leading in both directions. The owners installed a plastic cover over the window well to prevent spillage from the roof eaves falling into the well.
Window wells and well covers are a no brainer solution to keeping your basement comfortable and dry.
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