Adding an egress window to your basement or lower-level living space is more than just a smart safety upgrade. In many cases, egress window installation is required by law. At Cornerstone Structural Repair & Waterproofing, we provide professional egress window installation services throughout the St. Louis area. Our experienced team understands the local codes and guidelines, ensuring your home is not only safer but also up to code.

Understanding Egress Window Requirements

An egress window is designed to serve as an emergency exit. It is a key feature in any finished basement used as a bedroom or living space. Egress windows must meet certain requirements, as these windows must be large enough to allow someone to escape in the event of a fire or other emergency, and they also allow emergency personnel to enter the home.

When is Egress Window Installation Required?

In St. Louis, and under the International Residential Code (IRC), an egress window is legally required in any basement that contains a bedroom. If you are finishing your basement or converting the space into a legal bedroom or rental unit, an egress window must be included.

Local building codes often adopt or adapt these national standards. In St. Louis and surrounding areas, municipal building departments may enforce slightly different versions of the IRC, so it is crucial to work with a professional who is familiar with these local regulations.

Egress Window Requirements and Specifications

To meet code requirements, an egress window must:

Have a minimum opening width of 20 inches
Have a minimum opening height of 24 inches
Offer a minimum net clear opening of 5.7 square feet (5.0 square feet for ground-floor windows)
Have a sill height no more than 44 inches above the floor
Be easily operable from the inside without the use of keys or tools

If the window opens into a window well, additional requirements apply, including a minimum clearance area of 9 square feet and a ladder or steps if the well is deeper than 44 inches.

Benefits of Installing an Egress Window

Even when not legally required, installing an egress window can add value and safety to your home. Some of the main benefits include:

Improved Safety: Provides a quick exit during emergencies
Increased Natural Light: Brings light into otherwise dark basement spaces
Better Ventilation: Improves airflow and reduces musty odors
Higher Home Value: Makes your home more marketable and code-compliant

Why Professional Installation Matters

Installing an egress window is not a simple do-it-yourself task. It involves cutting into your home’s foundation, installing proper drainage systems, ensuring water sealing, and navigating complex building codes. A professional contractor like Cornerstone ensures the work is done safely and meets all code requirements. Plus, with our life of structure warranty, you can count on lasting protection and peace of mind.

Learn more about: Egress Window Code Requirements

Common Customer Problems We Solve

Homeowners often call us after realizing their basement bedroom does not meet legal requirements or after failed home inspections. Others want to enhance basement safety or increase property value. Whatever the reason, Cornerstone delivers expert guidance and craftsmanship throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Egress Window Requirements

Is egress window installation always required for basements?

No. It is only required if the basement contains a bedroom or sleeping area. However, it is a highly recommended upgrade for safety and compliance.

Can I convert my basement into a bedroom without an egress window?

Legally, no. If you are adding a bedroom in the basement, an egress window must be installed to meet building code requirements.

How long does it take to install an egress window?

Most installations take 1 to 3 days depending on site conditions and complexity.

Will installing an egress window damage my foundation?

Not when done properly. Our team ensures precise excavation and structural reinforcement, protecting your foundation and keeping your home secure.

Get Professional Egress Window Installation in St. Louis

If you’re planning to finish your basement or want to ensure your home meets current safety standards, our team is here to help. We can help you understand if egress window installation is required and ensure all qualifications are met. Cornerstone Structural Repair & Waterproofing offers expert egress window installation services backed by a life of structure warranty. We serve homeowners throughout the St. Louis area, providing professional, code-compliant solutions that stand the test of time.

Contact us today to request a free estimate or learn more about how we can help with your basement safety and waterproofing needs.

Crown Beacon Property Solutions

recommends

Dale and the guys did a fantastic job. We had a significant wall lean, and they made the repair look easy. They walked us through the permit and inspection processes. Their work is quality, and they are easy to work with. Highly recommended.

Adam Hughes

recommends

My experience with Cornerstone was a few years ago. I had a sump pump completely replaced, an entire basement wall braced and an outside (garage) wall piered. I have not had a problem since the work was done. The workers and the owner, Dale, were at my home when they said they would be. I am pleased with the work that was done and found Dale to be a man of his word. I would not hesitate to recommend Cornerstone.

Shannon Cornine Norman

recommends

Dale was responsive and moved quickly to meet the deadline we were working from. He was patient and answered so many questions we had, even after the job was done. Highly recommend!

Amanda Moore

recommends

they fixed my mess of a wall that was caving in in my basement and they are friendly quick and overall just great 100% recommended them to all

Geralyn Ulicny Kogelman

recommends

We were getting ready to close on our house and 1 week before closing a heavy rain came and we had water in our laundry room in the basement. Dale and his crew came out the next day and got started on fixing the issue. They were fantastic and very detailed in explaining what they were going to do. Had it done in their time frame and cleaned everything up. Very professional and excellent service.

Garrett Schmidt

recommends

Quality work from quality folks. I called on a Friday afternoon to get a quote for poly jacking our sidewalk. They came out on a Saturday morning to take a look and got us on their schedule. Quite happy with how the fix looks as well!

Margaret Kathleen

recommends

Dale and his staff- Rob and Scott, did an excellent job repairing basement cracks for me . They were able to hurry and accommodate the new construction i have going in there. The price was reasonable. Dale and his staff were kind and professional! Would recommend in a minute!

Stephanie Miller

recommends

After the huge flood, we had July 26, 2022. I finally decided I’d had enough with the flooding issue and contracted Cornerstone Structural Repair & Waterproofing to knock out my sliding glass door in my basement and cement the opening to form a solid concrete barrier. I am very satisfied with the end results!! Dale and his workers did a great job, very respectful of the property, very friendly and professional, and cleaned up after the work was completed. It has already come in handy after 27 years of dealing with flooding in my basement and replacing numerous appliances. I can be at peace now not having to worry every time we have a torrential downpour. Please see attached photos of the 2022 flood and the flood event this year in April. Kudos to Dale and his team!!!! 😁

Joe Fleetwood

recommends

Dale and his guys were amazing to work with! The price was fair and the work was excellent quality. The crew took time to explain exactly what they were doing. If your looking for waterproofing or structural repairs dale is the goto guy!

Jared Opsal

recommends

They did an excellent job for our new sump pump system as well as addressing a bowing wall. They were friendly and cleaned up their job site well each day.