Egress Window Requirements in Colorado

What is an Egress Window?

An egress window is an emergency exit window required by building code in all basement sleeping rooms (bedrooms). The purpose is to provide a safe escape route in case of fire or other emergencies.

Bottom line: If you want a legal basement bedroom in Colorado, you need an egress window.

Colorado Egress Window Size Requirements

Colorado follows the International Residential Code (IRC) for egress window requirements. The minimum dimensions are:

Important: The 5.7 sq ft is the net clear opening, not the overall window size. The window must open to provide that full opening area.

Window Well Requirements

When the egress window is below ground level, a window well is required. The window well must meet these requirements:

• Width: Minimum 36 inches (9 square feet if deeper than 44 inches)
• Projection: Must extend at least 36 inches from the window
• Ladder: Required if window well is deeper than 44 inches
• Drainage: Must have proper drainage to prevent water accumulation

Common Egress Window Types

Casement Windows

Casement windows (hinged on one side, crank open) are the most popular choice for egress. They provide maximum opening area and are easy to operate.

Sliding Windows

Horizontal sliding windows can meet egress requirements but require larger overall dimensions since only half the window opens.

Double-Hung Windows

Double-hung windows rarely meet egress requirements because the opening area is limited to the lower sash only.

Egress Window Installation Process

1. Permit and planning - Obtain building permit and plan window placement
2. Foundation cutting - Cut through the concrete foundation wall
3. Excavation - Dig the window well area
4. Window well installation - Install corrugated steel or polymer well
5. Window installation - Install the egress window with proper flashing
6. Drainage - Install drainage system in window well
7. Finishing - Interior and exterior finishing
8. Inspection - Final inspection by building department

Cost of Egress Windows

Egress window installation typically costs $3,000-7,000 per window, including:

• Foundation cutting
• Window well
• Egress window
• Drainage installation
• Interior and exterior finishing

Costs vary based on foundation type, soil conditions, window size, and finish level.

Can I Sell My House Without Egress?

Yes, but basement rooms without egress cannot be counted as bedrooms for real estate listings. A "4 bedroom home with finished basement" is very different from a "3 bedroom home with bonus room."

Adding egress windows to existing basement bedrooms can significantly increase your home's value and marketability.

Douglas County Egress Window Permits

Douglas County requires permits for egress window installation. The permit process includes:

1. Submit permit application with plans
2. Receive approval (typically 1-2 weeks)
3. Complete work per approved plans
4. Schedule and pass final inspection

Get Your Egress Window Installed

We install code-compliant egress windows throughout Douglas County. Contact us for a free quote on adding egress windows to your basement.