17 Jul Basement Egress Solutions for your Pittsburgh Home

A thoughtfully planned basement can become an integral and valuable addition to your home’s livable areas, providing extra rooms for entertainment, storage, or even additional bedrooms. However, safety should be a top priority when renovating or finishing a basement, especially when providing adequate escape routes in emergencies.

Basement egress solutions ensure that anyone in the basement can quickly and safely exit the space if needed. These solutions enhance safety and ensure compliance with local building codes, which is crucial for any home improvement project.

This article will explore the different basement egress solutions available for Pittsburgh homeowners, explain the local requirements, and highlight the benefits of professional installation.

Understanding Basement Egress Requirements in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh’s building codes mandate that all basements, habitable attics, and bedrooms have at least one operable emergency escape and rescue opening. Each bedroom must have an escape and rescue opening if a basement has one or more bedrooms. These openings must provide a direct route to the outside, either leading to a public way or an area that opens to a public way.

These escape routes must be operable inside the room without needing keys, tools, or special knowledge. The regulations also require a minimum unobstructed opening size of at least 5.7 square feet, with dimensions at least 24 inches in height and 20 inches in width. The window’s bottom edge should not exceed 44 inches from the floor level. Also, suppose the window is below ground level. In that case, a window well of a specific size and drainage requirements is required to ensure it remains functional and safe.

As a Pittsburgh homeowner, complying with these regulations is not just a legal obligation but a vital safety feature that could be pivotal in saving lives during critical situations. Additionally, meeting these requirements is essential for obtaining permits, passing inspections, and maintaining your home’s value and insurability. 

Types of Basement Egress Solutions

When it comes to basement egress solutions, Pittsburgh homeowners have several options to choose from. Each solution has its unique advantages and considerations. Let’s explore the most common types:

Window Wells

One of the most popular egress solutions is the installation of window wells. Window wells are excavated areas outside basement windows that allow larger openings and easier escape. The installation process typically involves excavating the area outside the basement window, installing a pre-fabricated well or building a custom one, adding drainage to prevent water accumulation, and installing a ladder or steps for easy exit.

Installing window wells for basement egress has numerous benefits. These features allow natural light to enter the basement, making the space feel more welcoming and less like a basement. Additionally, window wells improve ventilation, reducing moisture and the risk of mold growth. Budget-wise, window wells provide a cost-effective solution to meet egress requirements without significant structural changes.

Various window wells, including metal, plastic, and composite materials, are available. Each type offers different levels of durability, aesthetic appeal, and maintenance requirements. Selecting the right window well depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Galvanized steel wells are durable and rust-resistant, making them popular in Pittsburgh’s climate. Composite wells are lightweight and easy to install, which can benefit DIY-inclined homeowners. For those seeking a more customized look, masonry wells can be custom-built to match the home’s exterior.

Egress Windows

Another effective solution is the installation of egress windows. The installation process typically involves enlarging an existing window opening or creating a new one, then fitting it with a window that meets egress standards and waterproofing the opening. These windows must be large enough to provide an unobstructed exit path and are usually installed with a window well to facilitate easy escape.

The benefits of egress windows as basement egress solutions extend beyond safety. They can significantly improve the livability of your basement by increasing natural light and ventilation. This can make your basement feel more like an above-ground living space, potentially increasing your home’s value.

Bilco Doors

Bilco doors, also known as bulkhead or cellar doors, provide another alternative for Pittsburgh homeowners. These doors are typically installed on the home’s exterior, providing direct access to the basement from the outside. The installation involves creating a stairwell to the basement and fitting it with a durable, weather-resistant door.

Bilco doors can be particularly beneficial for Pittsburgh homeowners. They offer robust and secure emergency exit routes and can be locked to prevent unauthorized access. This robust access also provides easy access for moving large items in and out of the basement. This door offers a reliable option for Pittsburgh homeowners’ varied climates, as it’s designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing Basement Egress Solutions

Local Climate Considerations

Pittsburgh’s climate can impact the choice of basement egress solutions. The region experiences significant rainfall and snow, which can affect the functionality and durability of egress installations. For instance, window wells may require additional drainage features to handle snow melt and heavy rains. At the same time, materials should be chosen appropriately to withstand moisture and temperature fluctuations, which is crucial to prevent damage and ensure long-term reliability.

Basement Layout and Accessibility

The layout and accessibility of your basement play a crucial role in determining the best basement egress solutions. The placement of existing windows, the basement’s depth, and the overall design will influence the type of egress system that can be installed. It’s essential to choose a solution that seamlessly integrates with your basement’s architecture while providing easy and safe access.

Budget and Long-Term Value

While safety should be the primary concern, budget considerations are also important. Some basement egress solutions have higher upfront costs. Still, they often offer better durability and lower maintenance, providing long-term value. That is why balancing initial expenses with long-term benefits is critical to making a sound investment in your home’s safety and functionality.

Benefits of Professional Installation by AquaGuard

Opting for professional installation of basement egress solutions means you can have peace of mind knowing that your basement egress solutions are correctly implemented, waterproofed, and built to last. This expertise is precious when dealing with the complexities of basement modifications and ensuring compliance with local building codes.

AquaGuard, a trusted name in Pittsburgh’s basement waterproofing and foundation repair, offers expert installation services that ensure optimal performance and compliance with local regulations. Our team of experienced professionals also understands the unique challenges of Pittsburgh’s climate and terrain. 

End Note

Basement egress solutions are vital for enhancing your basement’s safety, value, and livability. Whether you opt for window wells, egress windows, or Bilco doors, each solution offers unique benefits for different needs and preferences. Moreover, professional installation by experts like AquaGuard ensures optimal results, giving you peace of mind and protecting your investment.

Don’t leave the safety of your home and loved ones to chance. Contact AquaGuard Pittsburgh today to explore your property’s best basement egress options and take the first step towards a safer, more valuable home.