We all take it for granted that each bedroom will have a window. Few understand the reasons and requirements for windows in bedrooms. Natural light and ventilation, mandatory in current building standards, are easily accommodated with a window. Equally as important, a bedroom must have a second means of escape in the event of an emergency. Moreover, egress windows made of fine material also enhance the look of your house.
What is an Egress Window?
An egress window, also known as a rescue window, is designed according to a set of parameters for proper functioning. In the contemporary age, it is necessary for each bedroom to have an egress window. It is a bifunctional window as it can be used for light and air as well as an escape pass in case of an emergency.
For What Purposes an Egress Window is Used?
Along with being a source of light and air, an egress window is used for emergency exits in case of fire or any issue causing a blockage at the doors. These windows can also be used in case of any tragedy for the firefighters and other rescue personnel to enter the building. So, it is necessary to fulfill the egress window requirement.
Do I Need an Egress Window for Every Room?
The main purpose of egress windows is to ensure the safety of residents. So, it is necessary to have an egress window in each habitable room of your house. Even the basements should have an egress window to keep the residents safe in case of an emergency.
Is the Egress Window Made of a Different Material?
The Egress window is made of the same material as other windows. These windows can be made of rust-less metals, treated wood, concrete, or heavy-duty plastic. However, Corrugated steel wells are known as the most appropriate option for egress window material. Heavy-duty plastic windows are also durable and don’t catch rust. These windows last for years.
Do All Homes Have Egress Windows?
Some older homes were built before there were any egress window requirements. Many more homes were built when the egress window net free opening size was much smaller. Yet even newer homes often lack proper egress windows. Some interior spaces were changed into family rooms or offices (which didn’t require egress windows) and then later converted into bedrooms (which now do require them).
Should I Buy a Home Without Egress Window?
It is better to have an egress window in your home. If your living place lacks these windows, you are putting your and your loved ones’ lives in danger. In 2025, from January 1st – February 10th, 266 home fire fatalities were reported to the media in The United States.
Standard Requirements for An Egress Window
International Residential Code (IRC) has set the requirements for the installation of Egress Windows. This standard is most often met with the installation of a window. Specific dimensions of the window opening exist to not only ensure that the occupant can escape, but also to allow a firefighter with his equipment on to enter.
The following is a summary of the egress code for the bedroom window:
- Must be a minimum of 20″ wide and 24″ high.
- Must have at least 5.7 sq.ft. (821 sq.in.) minimum clear opening.
- The window sill must be no higher than 44″ from the finished floor.
- Security bars, if present, must have approved quick-release hardware and not require any tools or keys to operate them.
Minimum sizes to meet the bedroom egress requirement of common window styles in this region:
- Horizontal sliding windows must be at least 48″ square in overall rough opening dimension to provide a 20.5″x42″ net opening.
- Single hung (vertical sliding) windows must be at least 37″x57″ in overall rough dimension to provide a 34″x24.5″ net opening.
- Casement (crank style) windows must be at least 29″x42″ in overall rough dimension to provide a 22.5″x36.5″ net opening.
How do you keep an egress window functional?
An egress window needs regular cleaning, and its lock needs to be oiled up for better functioning. It is recommended to clean the egress window at least twice a year. Anyhow, cleaning the window after any extreme weather conditions is recommended.
Conclusion
To provide a safe living place to your family it is better to get your home inspected. If your new home lacks an egress window, It’s better to get egress windows installed in the bedroom. Along with all other inspections, a good home inspector in Arizona will point out non-compliant egress window situations. Explaining this information to a buyer can be challenging. Think of it this way: if you buy a classic car, you do so knowing it does not have airbags. It would be unreasonable to expect the seller to install airbags in the classic car. Similarly, if upgrades are desired, it would normally be the responsibility of the buyer to make any changes.