Egress Windows and Why They Matter

Egress windows play a large part in both safety and classification of Minnesota homes. Any room to be classified as a bedroom below the main level of a home is required by state law to have an egress window if it does not contain a door leading directly to the exterior of the home.

So what exactly IS an egress window?

The minimum code requirements for an egress window are as follows:

• Window sill height may not exceed 44 inches above the floor level.
• Minimum width of 20 inches and a minimum height of 24 inches.
• Minimum total opening size of 5.7 square feet.  Keep in mind, the minimum width or height requirements will most likely be exceeded to attain minimum size requirements depending on what type of window you have. (See image.)
• If a window well is present, the minimum opening size must be 36 in. x 36 in. with a permanent ladder provided if the depth is more than 44 inches.

One of the most basic ways to understand the reasons behind these measurements is simply: SAFETY.  Not only must a human being be able to quickly and easily exit the room in the case of an emergency, but a firefighter in full gear with air tanks must also be able to fit through the opening and move freely within the well.