Everything You Need to Know About Basement Egress Windows in Northern Colorado

Everything You Need to Know About Basement Egress Windows in Northern Colorado

If you’re considering finishing your basement or remodeling a basement bedroom in Northern Colorado, one of the most important code requirements you’ll need to plan for is the egress window. Not only are these windows essential for safety—they're also required by law in most residential basement projects involving bedrooms or sleeping areas.

At Choice City Home Services, we specialize in basement finishing and remodeling, including egress window installation, enlargement, and compliance with all applicable building codes. In this post, we’ll walk you through what an egress window is, when it’s required, what to do if your current window isn’t large enough, and how we can help make it happen smoothly.

What Is an Egress Window?

An egress window is a window designed to serve as an emergency exit in case of fire or other emergencies. In basements, these are especially important because the lower level often has fewer ways to escape than the main floors of the home.

Egress windows aren’t just for safety—they’re also a legal requirement when converting basement areas into bedrooms, guest suites, or sleeping areas.

What Are the Building Code Requirements for Egress Windows in Colorado?

Egress window regulations are based on the International Residential Code (IRC), which is adopted and enforced across Colorado, including Larimer and Weld counties.

Here’s what the code generally requires:

✅ Minimum Opening Size: The window must provide a clear opening of at least 5.7 square feet.
✅ Minimum Height of Opening: 24 inches
✅ Minimum Width of Opening: 20 inches
✅ Maximum Sill Height: The bottom of the window opening must not be more than 44 inches from the floor.
✅ Window Wells (if below grade):

• Must provide a minimum area of 9 square feet
• Must project at least 36 inches from the window
• Ladders are required if the well is deeper than 44 inches

It’s important to note: these are minimums. Even if your window meets these dimensions, it must also be easily operable without keys or tools—meaning no bars, locks, or security systems should prevent escape in an emergency.

When Is an Egress Window Required?

Egress windows are required by code under the following circumstances:

• You're converting a basement into a bedroom, guest suite, or sleeping area
• You're performing a basement remodel that includes any kind of habitable space
• Your home was built before modern codes and you are now finishing the basement for use

Even if your basement currently has small windows, you may be required to enlarge them if they don’t meet code. This is especially common in older homes across Fort Collins, Loveland, Berthoud, and surrounding areas where original construction didn’t include compliant basement windows.

What If My Existing Window Is Too Small?

If your basement window doesn't meet egress requirements, you’ll need to enlarge the window and possibly the opening in the foundation wall. This can sound intimidating—but don’t worry, we can help.

At Choice City Home Services, we have experience safely cutting foundation walls and installing code-compliant egress windows, wells, and drains. Here's what the process typically involves:

Step 1: Inspection and Planning

We assess your current window size and placement. We’ll check structural conditions, utilities, and drainage conditions to determine if the window can be safely enlarged.

Step 2: Design and Permitting

We submit permit applications and design plans to your local jurisdiction. Most Colorado municipalities require engineering and a building permit for any work that involves structural cutting or enlarging openings.

Step 3: Cutting the Foundation

We use professional equipment to safely cut the concrete or masonry foundation. This is precision work that must be done carefully to avoid compromising the structure.

Step 4: Window Installation

We install a code-compliant window unit with all necessary framing, flashing, and waterproofing to ensure energy efficiency and long-term durability.

Step 5: Window Well & Drainage

We install a metal or composite window well, ensuring the well is properly drained to prevent future water issues. A ladder is added if needed.

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Why Choose Choice City Home Services?

We’re a licensed, full-service general contractor that specializes in basement design, remodeling, and compliance-focused construction. Here’s how we make your project easy:

✅ Licensed Experts in Egress Code – We know exactly what your city or county inspectors require.
✅ Safe Structural Work – Our team includes skilled tradespeople who perform foundation work safely and professionally.
✅ Efficient Process – We include egress window upgrades as part of our full basement finishing process, so everything is coordinated from day one.
✅ Drainage and Waterproofing – We build with long-term durability in mind, preventing future moisture issues.
✅ Custom Design Integration – We place and design your egress window to fit seamlessly into your new layout and let in more natural light.

Part of Our Full Basement Finishing Process

Egress windows are often a key component of our basement finishing projects. When you work with Choice City Home Services, our process ensures that all code requirements—including egress—are factored in early so you don’t run into delays later.

Our 5-step process includes:

1. Complimentary Phone Consultation – We assess your goals, timeline, and budget.
2. Free In-Home Consultation – We visit your home, evaluate the basement, and provide a bracketed estimate.
3. Professional Design Consultation – Is a paid service for serious homeowners, we create architectural layouts, material selections, and a firm bid.
4. Preconstruction Phase – We handle permits, code checks, scheduling, and material planning.
5. Construction Begins – Our skilled team executes your basement project with precision and professionalism.

Let’s Add Light, Safety, and Value to Your Basement

Adding or upgrading an egress window isn’t just about code—it’s about creating a safe, comfortable, and livable space. Whether you’re turning your basement into a guest suite, home office, or family room, the right egress window makes a big difference in both functionality and peace of mind.

📞 Call us today at 970-308-3638 or visit choicecityhs.com to schedule a consultation.

Let’s build a brighter, safer basement—starting with the right window.

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