Egress windows are an important safety feature for any home with a basement. This is especially true for homes with a downstairs bedroom. They are also sometimes a requirement under Council Bluffs building codes.
Let’s look at what is an egress window, when is one required for a Council Bluffs home, and what standards do Council Bluffs’ codes set for egress windows.
What is an Egress Window?
An egress window is a window that can function as a rescue opening or means of escape. Most bedrooms have one or more simply as a function of having windows.
When you hear about egress window requirements and installation, however, it usually isn’t about first-floor bedrooms where simply having a reasonable size window that can open will meet the requirements.
Instead, it usually concerns egress windows in sub-grade basements. Being below ground installing a window that is suitable as an emergency exit is trickier. They can, however, play an important role in keeping your family safe.
When is are Egress Windows Required in Council Bluffs?
As of 2024, Council Bluffs follows the 2015 International Residential Code when it comes to egress window requirements.
Under the code, basements, habitable attics and every sleeping room shall have at least one operable emergency escape and rescue opening. In basements with sleeping rooms, the code requires an emergency escape and rescue opening in each one.
Storm shelters and small basements that only house mechanical equipment are exempt.
These rules apply to new construction, but also in some other cases as well. If you add a basement to an existing house, you must install a means of escape and rescue opening. Similarly, if you add a bedroom to your basement, you must follow those rules.
The international code makes an exception for other basement alterations. It reads: “An emergency escape and rescue opening is not required where existing basements undergo alterations or repairs.”
What Is Required of an Egress Window?
The International Residential Code lays out minimum standards for egress windows.
First, they must open from the inside without using keys or special tools or knowledge.
Second, it sets a minimum size. For most basement windows (those at or below ground level), the opening must be 5 square feet. The height of the opening when the window is open must be at least two feet. The width of the opening must be at least 20 inches.
Third, it sets placement rules. The window sill must not be more than 44 inches above the floor. This is so it is not too high to be easily accessed in case of emergency.
Fourth, it requires window wells for all below-ground windows. The wells’ area must be at least nine square feet with a width of three feet. If the well is at least 44 inches deep, the well must have a permanent ladder or steps. The rungs or steps must be at least 1 foot wide, project at least 3 inches from the wall, and not be more than 18 inches apart vertically for the full height of the well.
Fifth, if the window opens beneath a deck or porch, the rules require an escape path to the yard at least 3 feet in height.
Have Your Egress Windows Installed by a Local Expert
Jerry’s Waterproofing is based across the border in Omaha and has a long history of providing quality waterproofing, foundation repair, egress window installation and more to Council Bluffs. Contact Jerry’s Waterproofing to learn more about our egress window and window well offerings, which include two great window well systems: Bilco’s StakWEL Window Well System and Bilco’s ScapeWEL Window Well System.