My town’s building department is requiring an egress window in my new basement office, soon to be started. I’m trying to minimize the size (it’s on the side of the house, fairly visible), and to that end, I’m looking for suggestions as to type, and hopefully manufacturer of suitable windows. Outdoor grade is 81″ above finished floor, and the top of the (12″) block wall is 92″ AFF, but I’m trying to keep the window height below around 40″. I’m planning on using a Bilco Scapewell unit, which requires 3.5″ below sill and 4″ above grade, which at 48″ high side panels, leaves 40.5″. We’re using the International code, as of this year.
Be seeing you…
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I'm pretty sure Bilco has "deeper" Scapewel units available ... 54" and possibly 60". If your Scapewel supplier doesn't have this info, check out http://www.bilco.com for more info!
Just checked the Bilco website ... I was incorrect. Bilco offers depth options of 48" or 62". I recommend the deeper ScapeWEL products. You may not need that extra 14" of depth, but the extra space provides clearance for 4-6" of HardiTrim and 3-4" of ground cover. Also provides extra holding capacity if your drain gets clogged with leaves and you get a few inches of rainwater in the bottom of your pit.
Sorry about the misinformation provided in the previous message!
Shawn @ Stolte Construction
Actually, that's what I'm trying to avoid. I'm trying to keep the well as small as possible, while keeping the 44" (max) sill to FF. I'm looking for recommendations on windows that others have used for this type of application. Be seeing you...