Considering upgrading your windows in your home? If so, you will need to meet the egress requirements for bedroom windows. And you may want to go with impact windows as well. In this case, impact, a sliding egress window could be the perfect solution for your home in Lee County. This type of window provides not only an aesthetically pleasing look but also meets egress code requirements and opening protection requirements. Both of these things make them an excellent choice for Florida homeowners.
But what exactly makes sliding egress windows stand out from the rest? And why should you consider them for your own home? That is exactly what we will cover in this guide. So stick around as you will be able to tell if sliding windows are right for you.
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Key Takeaways
- Sliding egress windows offer a sleek and modern design with practical emergency exit (egress) capabilities
- They are available in hurricane-rated versions, providing crucial protection in storm-prone Lee County
- Energy-efficient options are available, helping to reduce your home’s energy costs
- Proper installation and maintenance are vital for optimal performance and longevity
- Eurex Shutters installs high-quality sliding egress windows in Lee County an Southwest Florida
What are sliding egress windows
Sliding egress windows have one or multiple, horizontally sliding sash(es). They open and close by sliding horizontally (side-to-side) vs up and down or in and out like other windows. Sliding windows are well-suited for wide openings, unlike single-hung, double-hung, and other types of windows.
Sliding windows offer a great solution for meeting the Florida Building Code requirements. They are very functional and easy to use. They provide an easy to use exit in case of fire or other emergencies.
For one, they are easy to slide open, so even a child is able to open the window if necessary. Second, they provide a wide opening to get in and out of.
Homeowners in Lee County appreciate the versatility of sliding egress windows. They meet the stringent safety standards required for egress windows. Just as beneficial is that they also enhance the overall functionality and curb appeal of your home. With options available in hurricane-rated versions, these windows are built with impact glass and strong frames, providing peace of mind during Florida’s hurricane season.
The sliding sash mechanism allows for smooth and easy operation. Unlike traditional casement windows, which require space/clearance to open outward, sliding egress windows offer a more compact solution without sacrificing accessibility. This makes them appealing for small spaces or spaces with clearance issues.
And with the availability of impact glass you will get hurricane and security protection. Learn more about
Investing in sliding egress windows means prioritizing both safety and aesthetics for your home and family.
Features of Sliding Egress Windows
Egress windows offer a lot of functionality and have a lot of great features. Here are some features that make them a good choice for most Lee County homeowners:
- Horizontally sliding sash – sliding windows are unique in that they open by sliding side-to-side. This makes them a great fit for wide openings, which are common for bedroom windows in Lee County, FL.
- Easy to open and close – the easy-to-operate mechanisms of sliding egress windows ensure smooth opening and closing. This feature is particularly important in emergency situations, where getting out easily is critical. The effortless operation of these windows can make all the difference when you need to exit your home quickly.
- Hurricane-rated versions – You can get sliding egress windows in hurricane-rated versions with impact, laminated glass and durable frames. Like all impact windows they can withstand the high winds and flying debris common during hurricanes. This added level of protection makes them an ideal choice for Lee County residents, which is prone to hurricanes.
- Energy-efficient glass options. These windows often come with double or triple-pane glass, which helps to insulate your home and reduce energy costs. This is a particularly attractive feature in sunny Florida, where keeping cooling costs down is a priority.
Benefits of Sliding Egress Windows
Sliding egress windows offer a host of benefits in addition to their basic function as windows. Some of the notable benefits include:
- “Easy” egress – sliding windows that meet the necessary requirements for egress windows ensure that your home is compliant with local building codes. In other words, they provide the egress needed. But that isn’t really the benefit. The benefit is that the design of the window makes it so it is easy to get in and out of. This is especially true when compared to some other types of windows. When it comes to an emergency, you want everyone to be able to get out as fast and easy as possible.
- Ease of operation – The horizontal sliding mechanism allows for quick and easy operation. They don’t need to be cranked. And they do not require you to lift the weight of the sash upwards. This makes them easy to use on a daily basis. But it makes them easy to use in case of an emergency, by everyone, even the older and younger members of your family. In addition, the wide opening makes it easy to get through if you need to exit (or a first responder needs to get in).
- Increased home value – like all new, impact windows, installing sliding egress windows increases the overall value of your property. Homebuyers often look for homes with modern, safety-compliant features. And in Lee County, they are also looking for homes with impact windows. This means they make your home more attractive and more valuable to potential buyers.
- Lots of ventilation – their design allows for a large opening, which provides high levels of ventilation and helps to improve indoor air quality. If you are looking for a window to maximize ventilation then sliding egress windows are a great choice.
- Hurricane protection and security protection for impact window versions – this is a benefit for all impact windows. Hurricane-rated windows provide both strong hurricane protection and security protection. And this is critical in an area prone to hurricanes like Southwest Florida. These windows are made with impact resistant, laminated glass and strong frames. These windows can protect your home from the high winds and debris associated with hurricanes. They can also prevent burglars from getting in. This will provide you with added peace of mind during Florida’s hurricane season.
- Lower maintenance – sliding windows generally require less maintenance than other types of common windows, like single and double-hung windows. That is because they have fewer moving parts. They slide along horizontal tracks and do not have the pulleys, springs, and crank systems that other window types do. As long as you do routine cleaning of the tracks they are relatively low-maintenance and easy to own.Comparison of Sliding Egress Windows with Other Egress Window Types
How does a sliding egress window compare to other types of egress windows?
There are many different types of egress windows, so why would you pick sliders?
Sliding egress windows offer excellent ease of access. Unlike casement windows, which require space to swing open, sliding windows slide open horizontally. This makes them more accessible in tight spaces.
In addition, they are quicker to open then many casement windows. Sliding windows slide. Casement windows need to be opened via a crank or other mechanism usually.
Hinged egress windows, such as casement or awning styles, also often require more clearance space to open. This makes them tough to use if your home has clearance issues inside or outside the opening. Sliding egress windows offer a more compact solution without compromising on accessibility.
In terms of energy efficiency, sliding egress windows often outperform single-hung windows. The design of sliding windows allows for better insulation, which can lead to lower energy costs.
As mentioned above, maintenance is another area where sliding egress windows have an advantage. Sliding windows are relatively low-maintenance.
If you have a wide opening then sliding windows also work better than most other window types as well. They are good for wide openings, where others would have very wide sashes or not work. Their wide design also provides an unobstructed view and allows more natural light into your home. This can enhance the overall look and feel of your living space, making it more inviting and comfortable.
In terms of looks, it is largely due to preferences. However, many would say that sliding egress windows can be more aesthetically pleasing than awning windows. The same can be said about windows that are wider than usual, such as really wide single or double-hung windows.
Regulations for Egress Windows in Lee County
In Lee County, egress windows must comply with the Florida Building Code, which outlines specific requirements for safety and accessibility. These regulations ensure that windows provide a safe and unobstructed exit path and entrance in case of emergencies, such as fires.
The local regulations stipulate specific height and width requirements for egress windows. This ensures that the windows are large enough to allow for a quick and easy escape. For homeowners in Lee County, it’s crucial to adhere to these dimensions to ensure compliance with local building codes.
We cover the requirements in our guide entitled Florida Egress Window Requirements. You can check that out if you want more details. But below is a quick snippet highlighting the main requirements:
Egress windows for Florida homes have to be big enough for a large adult male to fit through them easily. The Florida Building Code means of egress chapter cites that such a window on the first floor has to have a minimum opening of 5 square feet. And a window for this purpose on the second or higher level has to have a minimum opening of 5.7 square feet.
It should also be noted that building permits are necessary for egress window installations in Lee County. This step is vital to ensure that the installation meets safety standards and is compliant with the Florida Building Code.
Consulting your local permitting authorities or a knowledgeable window company, like Eurex Shutters, can provide valuable insights into specific compliance details. Experts can guide you through the process of choosing and installing egress windows that meet your needs and all local regulations.
Conclusion
Sliding egress windows offer Lee County homeowners a great blend of safety, style, and functionality. From their modern design to their hurricane protection features, these windows provide a valuable upgrade to your home. Understanding local regulations and choosing the right window installation company, such as Eurex Shutters helps make the process easy.
If you are looking for impact resistant windows in Lee County go with the Pros! Eurex Shutters has 38+ years experience of installing quality impact windows and doors, including egress windows. Fill out the quick form below to get a Free Quote.
Or call (239) 369-8600 for immediate service.
