Egress Windows in Berwyn, IL
Egress requirements are an important consideration when replacing windows in bedrooms, basements, attics, and other applicable spaces in Berwyn.
Valdicass provides professional egress window replacement in Berwyn, Illinois, and can help homeowners evaluate Pella® window configurations that meet the required clear-opening dimensions for the location and project.
Because egress requirements involve life safety and local building codes, the actual clear opening of the proposed window—not simply the nominal window size—must be considered before the window is ordered.
What Is an Egress Window?
An egress window is an emergency escape and rescue opening.
Its purpose is to provide a sufficiently large opening through which occupants can escape during an emergency and emergency personnel can enter when necessary.
For homeowners, this means that choosing a replacement window based only on the rough opening or overall unit dimensions isn’t enough. The window must provide the required net clear opening when actually opened.
Berwyn Egress Window Requirements
The City of Berwyn currently publishes specific requirements for egress windows.
According to the city’s current Egress Window Information, bedrooms and recreation areas in basements and attics require egress windows. Berwyn also states that when a basement or attic is finished, two forms of egress are required—for example, two doors or one door and one egress window. Berwyn City Government
The city’s published dimensional requirements include:
- Basement and first-floor egress windows: minimum 5.0 sq. ft. net clear opening
- Second floor and above: minimum 5.7 sq. ft. net clear opening
- Minimum clear opening height: 24 inches
- Minimum clear opening width: 20 inches
- Maximum sill height: 44 inches
Berwyn also states that a casement window used for egress requires an egress hinge that allows the window to open fully. Berwyn City Government
These requirements should be confirmed for the specific property and project before ordering windows.
Minimum Width & Height Don’t Automatically Mean the Window Qualifies
This is an important distinction.
A window that has a 20-inch clear width and a 24-inch clear height does not automatically provide the required 5.0 or 5.7 square feet of clear opening.
The complete clear opening must satisfy the applicable area requirement.
For example, Berwyn’s own guidance explains that when meeting the 5.0-square-foot requirement with a 24-inch clear opening height, the opening would need to be 30 inches wide. For the 5.7-square-foot requirement at that same height, the width would need to be approximately 34 inches. Berwyn City Government
That’s why the actual operating style and clear-opening dimensions are critical.
Egress Windows for Berwyn Bedrooms
Berwyn’s remodeling guidance states that at least one window in each bedroom must meet the applicable egress requirements.
This can become particularly important during:
- Bedroom renovations
- Window replacement projects
- Attic conversions
- Basement remodeling
- Creating new bedrooms
- Code-compliance work
- Property renovations involving existing noncompliant openings
An existing window may fit the opening physically while a proposed replacement window provides a different clear-opening area because of changes in frame dimensions or operating style.
For that reason, evaluate egress before ordering the replacement window.
Basement Egress Windows in Berwyn
Basement projects deserve particular attention.
Berwyn’s published guidance identifies egress requirements for applicable basement spaces, and city permit records continue to show projects requiring basement windows to be brought into compliance with egress code.
A basement egress project may involve more than simply selecting a replacement window.
Depending on existing conditions, the project may require evaluation of:
- Existing window opening
- Finished-floor-to-sill height
- Clear opening dimensions
- Window operating style
- Foundation opening
- Exterior grade
- Window well conditions
- Interior and exterior finishing
- Permit and inspection requirements
Any structural or opening modifications should be evaluated as part of the specific project.
Choosing the Right Window Style for Egress
Window style can make a substantial difference because egress is based on the clear opening available when the window is open.
Casement Windows
Casement windows can sometimes provide substantial clear opening relative to the overall unit dimensions because the sash opens outward.
Berwyn specifically notes that casement windows used for egress require an appropriate egress hinge allowing the window to open fully. Berwyn City Government
Double-Hung Windows
With a double-hung window, the sash occupies part of the overall window opening when opened.
For this reason, don’t confuse the overall window dimensions with the actual net clear opening.
Sliding Windows
Sliding windows similarly have an operable sash that occupies part of the overall frame area.
The actual clear opening must therefore be checked against the applicable egress requirements.
The best configuration depends on the dimensions and conditions of the individual opening.
Pella Windows for Egress Applications
Valdicass specializes in Pella replacement windows and can evaluate available Pella configurations for projects requiring emergency escape and rescue openings.
Depending on the product and application, options may include different window styles, frame materials, glass packages, colors, grilles, screens, and other features.
The important point is that not every window of a particular nominal size will necessarily satisfy egress requirements. You need to evaluate the clear-opening specifications for the actual product and configuration.
Professional Egress Window Installation
Valdicass has served Chicagoland homeowners since 1997 and is a Pella Platinum Elite Certified Contractor.
For an egress-related window project, we can evaluate the existing opening, proposed window configuration, installation method, and applicable project requirements before ordering the window.
Depending on existing conditions, installation may involve pocket replacement, full-frame replacement, or more extensive opening modifications.
Berwyn Permits & Code Requirements
The City of Berwyn’s Building Department regulates residential construction and provides current information about permits, remodeling requirements, and egress windows. The city currently identifies the 2024 International Residential Code as one of its applicable building codes. Berwyn City Government
Because codes, interpretations, and project requirements can change, homeowners should verify the requirements applicable to their specific property and proposed work with the City of Berwyn before construction.
City of Berwyn Building Permits Department
City of Berwyn Egress Window Information
Egress Window Replacement in Berwyn, IL
If you’re replacing bedroom windows, remodeling a basement or attic, or addressing an existing egress issue in Berwyn, Valdicass can help evaluate the window opening and available Pella replacement window options.
Call Valdicass at 708-255-5231 or request a free estimate online.
