Are you wondering whether it is worth your time and money to add an egress window to your basement? You may want to consider the following reasons why egress windows are worth the time and effort.
- Safety
If the safety of your household is a priority to you, then egress windows will be worth every penny and second spent on them. If a fire, for example, were to break out in the upper levels of the home, the basement will most likely be your exit strategy. An egress window provides an easy route of escape in case of emergencies.
These windows can also act as a point of entry for emergency personnel. For example, if a person were trapped in the building while it was on fire, firefighters can gain access to the building through the window. They will also be able to guide any trapped individual through the window to safety.
- Increased home value
Finishing your basement and making it a living space is an easy and affordable way of increasing the square footage of your home. However, most basements are not designed for living in the first place. Several modifications must be made to make the space meet building code standards for living spaces. This includes adding an egress window.
While installing an egress window can cost a few thousand dollars, the increased value to your home can be in the tune of several thousands more. You will not only recoup the costs of installing the window, but you will also make a profit as a result of the additional living space if you choose to sell your home.
- Increased lighting and ventilation
Adding an egress window will completely transform your basement. Your basement will no longer be a dark hole. It will become bright and airy. This will enable you to make better use of your basement. It will also help you avoid many of the air quality issues that damp basements can cause such as increased mold spores in the air in your home. Your egress window could be one of the keys to eliminating allergies and other respiratory ailments in your home.
Conclusion
Egress windows do not come cheap. You will also need to factor in the costs of hiring a professional egress window installation expert. However, these windows are well worth every penny you will spend on them. Once they are installed, it will be impossible to imagine your basement without them
