An egress window is what turns a basement room into a legal bedroom in Colorado. It is also a real construction project that involves cutting the foundation, excavating a window well, and coordinating with the local building department. Here is what to expect.
What Colorado Code Requires
Colorado follows the International Residential Code for basement egress. A basement bedroom must have at least one egress window (or an exterior door) that meets these minimums: 5.7 square feet of net clear opening, minimum 24 inches of clear opening height, minimum 20 inches of clear opening width, and a sill no more than 44 inches above the finished floor. The window well outside must be at least 9 square feet with a minimum projection and width of 36 inches, and if it is deeper than 44 inches it needs a permanent ladder or steps.
The Install Process
Step 1: Locate and mark
The window is placed based on the interior layout of the bedroom and the exterior yard grade. Utility locates are called in before any excavation starts.
Step 2: Excavate the well
The well area is dug out to the required depth, usually 4 to 6 feet below grade for a full basement.
Step 3: Cut the foundation
The concrete foundation is cut and the opening is framed with a header sized for the load above. This is the most specialized part of the install.
Step 4: Install the window and well
The window is installed, flashed, and sealed. A prefabricated metal or composite well is anchored to the foundation. Gravel is placed in the base for drainage.
Cost
A complete egress window install in the Denver metro typically runs $4,500 to $8,500 including the window, foundation cut, well, permits, and cleanup. Homes with unusually deep basements, difficult access, or brick veneer that has to be cut can push into the $10,000+ range.
The Permit and Inspection Piece
Egress windows require a permit in every Denver-area jurisdiction. Inspectors verify the opening dimensions, the sill height, the well dimensions, and any ladder or step requirement. This is typically bundled with the basement finish permit if the window is part of a larger project.
CS Remodeling handles basement finishing, kitchens, bathrooms, and drywall across the Denver metro area. Get a free estimate and we'll walk through your project honestly.
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