How To: Choosing the Right Egress Windows for Bedrooms

A bedroom egress window serves a crucial function, especially in bedrooms. You and your family sleep and spend a lot of time in your home’s bedrooms. In the event of an emergency, you want to make sure everyone can get out, and emergency personnel can get in. This is where having the right egress windows in your bedrooms comes into play.

Whether you’re building a new home in Lee County, Florida, or planning a renovation, understanding the ins and outs of egress bedroom windows is essential. Local building codes mandate specific dimensions and requirements. So you will want to understand these requirements to ensure compliance and your family’s safety.

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Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

• Egress windows provide essential emergency escape routes and in Florida they are legally required in bedrooms
• Lee County, Florida, stipulates specific egress window dimensions for safety
• Various types of egress windows offer both functional and aesthetic benefits
• Proper installation of egress windows can enhance home value and safety
• Common pitfalls in egress window selection can be avoided with professional guidance

Understanding the Importance of Egress Windows for Bedrooms

Egress windows are a critical safety feature in your home’s bedrooms. These windows provide a means of escape that can save lives. While you hopefully never have to use them the importance of egress windows cannot be overstated. This is especially true in bedrooms where family members spend a significant amount of time sleeping. You want them to be able to get out (or make sure emergency personnel can get in) in the case of an emergency.

The Florida Building Code requirements for egress windows mandates that bedrooms have egress windows with specific dimensions. This is in place to ensure that the window can be easily accessed and exit is possible in case of an emergency.

As a result, Egress windows for bedrooms need to be selected carefully. This is because they are a means of egress, a vital part of your home’s design meant to protect you.

So what is important when selecting adequate egress windows for your bedrooms?

Safety should be your top priority when selecting egress windows. It really is about ensuring that the window will function effectively in an emergency. You want windows that are easy for everyone to get in and out of if an emergency arises. What window is best for your particular bedroom? Below we give some guidance on the types available.

Types of Egress Windows for Bedrooms

Choosing the right type of egress window for your bedroom involves picking a style you like that also works for egress requirements. Different types of windows offer varying benefits and might be better suited for specific spaces, opening sizes, or personal needs. Understanding these options will help you make an informed decision that balances safety, aesthetics, and functionality.

If you want to explore these options in more detail you can read our guide on Types of Egress Windows.

Sliding windows for egress

These windows slide horizontally along tracks and open quickly and easily. They are a popular option for bedroom egress windows. They work well for wide openings. They also work well for smaller rooms where space is at a premium. That is because these windows slide horizontally to open, which can save space while still providing a wide opening for egress.

It should be noted that while these windows work well for wide openings, the actual opening is usually half to one-third of the entire window size. That is because the sashes overlap each other.

Learn more about this popular bedroom window in our guide on Sliding Egress Windows.

Double-Hung

For those who prefer a more traditional look, double-hung windows might be the right choice. Double-hung windows have dual sashes. You can open both the top and bottom sashes, which can be advantageous for ventilation as well as egress. They may not be the most ideal means of egress, but they still meet egress requirements if properly sized.

Casement windows

Casement windows are another choice for bedrooms. These large windows offer great views and sizable openings for egress purposes.

A few things to note on casement windows if you want to use them for egress purposes.

First, some versions do not open fully. Other versions do open fully, allowing for an easy escape route in an emergency. And some casement windows have a modification kit to allow them to open fully. You will want to ensure that if you pick a casement window it is one that opens fully.

Second, it should be noted that many casement windows open via a crank handle or other mechanism. This may require more time to open the window, and this is not a good fit for egress. Push-out versions are a better option, as they open quicker.

Awning windows

Awnings offer another alternative for egress in some cases. These windows hinge at the top and open outward.

Similar to casement windows, you will want to pick awning windows that open fully and quickly. This makes it easier to get out when necessary. Some versions do not open past a certain angle. And some versions use a crank mechanism, which might make it slower to open them.

Benefits of Installing Egress Windows in Bedrooms

Installing egress windows in bedrooms offers a multitude of benefits that go beyond compliance with building codes. Yes, these windows provide safety, but they can also increase your comfort, your home’s efficiency, and increase the value of your home.

One of the most noticeable benefits of egress windows is the increase in natural light they bring into a room. Bedrooms with egress windows often feel brighter and more inviting, creating a pleasant living environment. This influx of sunlight can have a positive impact on your mood and overall well-being, making your bedroom a more enjoyable space.

Safety is, of course, the primary reason for installing egress windows in bedrooms. In the event of an emergency, these windows can save lives.

Egress windows allow family members to get out of the home in the event of an emergency. They also provide access for emergency responders when they need to get in to your home. Bedroom egress windows provide a clear and accessible entry point that helps firefighters or paramedics reach you quicker.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Egress Windows For Your Home

What do you need to know, and what do you need to avoid when picking and selecting bedroom egress windows? Being aware of potential missteps can help you avoid them and make informed decisions.

For one, it is important to follow local building code requirements. In Lee County and other parts of Florida, specific requirements dictate what qualifies as an acceptable egress window. And these requirements go beyond just the egress window size. Failing to adhere to these guidelines can result in non-compliance with code. A major issue with failed inspections are that they can lead to fines and require expensive remediation/modifications.

Selecting poor quality windows can also compromise the longevity and functionality of egress windows. Cheap or low-quality windows may save you money upfront. However, they often lead to more problems than they are worth. These windows may not withstand the elements or daily use, resulting in poor performance and the need for premature replacement. Cheap windows typically also have sub-par warranties.

So what brand windows should you buy? Learn more about the best hurricane window brands in Southwest Florida.

Another mistake, especially in Florida, is choosing windows without impact glass. First, traditional glass windows will leave you unprotected vs hurricane season. Second, you will need to install impact windows in some instances in order to be code compliant. You may run up against code compliance issues in this case as well. It is helpful to talk to a professional to see if you need impact windows based on your situation.

Yet another mistake is failing to consider how the window operates. Some windows might look appealing but are not the most functional for egress purposes. Ensure that the window opens fully, quickly, and easily. Also, make sure that the window can open without obstructions (on the inside and outside) as well. This will provide a clear path for egress in an emergency.

Lastly, installing your windows as a DIY project can lead to costly installation errors. While it might be tempting to tackle the project yourself to save money, professional window installers, such as Eurex Shutters, have the experience and knowledge to avoid common pitfalls. Relying on their expertise can help you achieve a smooth installation that meets all necessary requirements.

Hiring a Professional for Egress Window Installation

If you need new windows, hiring a professional is often the best plan. Professionals bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the table. Not only do they handle all the permits and paperwork. They also help ensure a smooth and compliant installation that meets local building codes.

Licensed professionals understand the building codes and regulations in Lee County, Florida. They can guide you through the residential code requirements, ensuring that your egress windows meet all necessary standards for safety and compliance. This means you do not have to guess.

Window companies can also help you determine the best type of window for your bedroom window egress needs.

A correct installation is another big benefit of going with a professional company. Trained window installation techs have the skills to install windows correctly, preventing issues that can arise from improper installation. This should reduce problems with hurricane damage (due to faulty installs), water damage, or increased energy bills from drafts.

And of course, hiring a professional will save you a ton of time and stress.

For those in Lee County and Southwest Florida, consider reaching out to Eurex Shutters, a hurricane impact window company that offers expertise in window installation. Contact them today for a FREE quote and ensure your home is safe and compliant with local building codes.

Conclusion

Ensuring the safety of your family is critical. And properly selected and installed egress windows for bedrooms are an important part of a safe home. These essential windows provide escape routes during emergencies that can save lives. By understanding local building codes and choosing the right type of egress window, you can create a safer and more enjoyable living space for your family.

Avoid common mistakes and guarantee a compliant and quality installation. Partner with an experienced window installation company, such as Eurex Shutters. Their expertise ensures that your egress windows meet all safety standards and are installed correctly, providing peace of mind and protecting your loved ones.

If you need egress impact windows in Southwest Florida go with the PROS at Eurex Shutters. We have been serving SWFL for 38+ years and have over 25,000 satisfied customers. Fill out the form below for a free consultation and free quote.

Or call (239) 369-8600 for immediate service.