Egress Window Cost Calculator

Egress window installation costs $2,500–$7,500 per window including the window well. Sliding egress windows cost $2,000–$4,000, casement egress $2,500–$4,500, and in-wall (new cut) installations $3,000–$5,500. Window wells add $500–$1,500 each. Well covers add $200–$500 per window. Building permits run $100–$300. A single basement egress window with well and cover typically costs $3,000–$6,000 total installed.

An egress window is a code-required emergency exit window in habitable basement rooms. IRC building code requires egress windows in all basement bedrooms and living spaces. Minimum requirements: 5.7 sq ft opening area, 20" minimum width, 24" minimum height, maximum 44" sill height from floor. Egress windows provide emergency escape during fires, allow natural light and ventilation, and are required to legally count basement rooms as bedrooms when selling your home.

DIY egress window installation is possible but challenging. It requires cutting through the foundation wall (concrete or block), which needs specialized tools: concrete saw ($100–$200/day rental), hammer drill, and masonry bits. You also need to excavate the window well, install proper waterproofing, and ensure code compliance. DIY saves $1,000–$2,000 on labor but mistakes can cause water infiltration or structural issues. Most homeowners hire professionals for the foundation cutting and do finishing work themselves.

Professional installation takes 1–2 days per window. Day 1: excavation, foundation cutting, window rough-in. Day 2: window installation, well installation, waterproofing, backfill. A single window typically takes 8–12 hours of work. Multiple windows on the same wall take 1.5–2 days total. New cut installations (no existing opening) take longer than enlarging existing windows. Weather can extend the timeline — dry conditions are best for excavation and waterproofing.

Yes, most jurisdictions require a building permit for egress window installation, typically $100–$300. The permit ensures the window meets IRC code requirements for size, placement, and emergency access. Inspections typically include: rough-in inspection (framing, header, waterproofing) and final inspection (window operation, well clearance, cover). Unpermitted egress windows may not count as legal bedrooms when selling and could cause insurance issues.

Casement egress windows are the best choice for most basements. They swing outward providing the full opening area, are easy to operate in emergencies, and meet code with smaller frame sizes. Sliding egress windows are more affordable but need a larger frame to meet minimum opening requirements. In-wall installations are best when no existing opening exists. For well clearance, ensure the window well extends 36" from the wall minimum and has a projection of at least 9 sq ft.

A window well is an excavated, lined area outside a basement egress window that provides clearance for the window to open and for emergency escape. Costs $500–$1,500 per well including excavation, corrugated steel or plastic liner, gravel drainage base, and backfill. Wells must extend 36" from the foundation wall minimum. Wells deeper than 44" require a permanently attached ladder or steps. A well cover ($200–$500) is recommended to keep out rain, debris, and animals.

Building code requires one egress window per habitable room (bedroom or living space) in the basement. A single-room basement needs 1 egress window. A basement with 2 bedrooms needs 2 egress windows. An open-concept basement with one sleeping area needs 1 egress window. Bathrooms and utility rooms do not require egress windows. For a full basement conversion with 2 bedrooms and a living area, plan for 2–3 egress windows at $3,000–$6,000 each.