3 Common Causes of Egress Window Failure
An egress window is an under-discussed but highly important part of your home. It is a window large enough, as defined by local building codes, to be used as an entry or exit route during emergencies. Its installation is required when finishing a basement and is often paired with an egress well with an attached ladder for a speedy escape.
In this blog, one of the leading basement repair contractors in Missouri discusses the common reasons egress windows fail to help you address issues before they become too costly to fix and decrease the value of your home.
1. Poor Installation
One of the main culprits of egress window failure is poor installation. It is a critical procedure since it involves two vital elements of the construction of your home: waterproofing and structural integrity. You need to find a qualified contractor who has years of training and expertise in these essential fields because poor planning and execution can lead to serious water-related problems.
The lack of a window well drain in the design plan is one major red flag to look out for. This is because heavy rains can quickly fill a basement window well and create adequate pressure to knock down the window itself and swamp your basement.
2. Incorrect Materials
Apart from looking aesthetically pleasing, your egress window needs to be durable. It is important to select a product that can withstand extreme temperatures and changing conditions. Fortunately, there is a wide variety of materials available, from railroad ties to corrugated steel or aluminum and pre-molded plastic. An egress window repair contractor suggests using high-strength composite because it can stand against the pressure exerted by soils surrounding your home.
3. Code Violations
An egress window installation is best left to a dedicated expert. Most times, building codes require a 5.7 square foot opening and a window that is no more than 44 inches off the floor. It is crucial that at least one window in each defined bedroom is of sufficient size in order to allow the occupants to get out and a firefighter with complete equipment to get in.
Stratum Structural Systems is a team of professionals specializing in the installation of egress windows, basement waterproofing and foundation repair. We aim to provide homeowners in Missouri areas with a safe exit during a time of emergency as a part of the top-quality living experience that they deserve. Call us today at (314) 620-8153 or fill out our contact form to set up an appointment.
