An Complete Guide to Egress Window Installation In Saskatoon [2024]

When planning their window replacement, most Saskatchewan homeowners ask whether they need their windows to comply with fire code. There is a lot of doubts and hearsay because some window companies will say that it is necessary, others will say it isn’t.

There seems to be a lot of disagreement about permits for window expansions. Should you get a permit to enlarge a window? By law, in Canada, any room that can be used as a bedroom or a living area, must have a window that allows for escape in the event of an emergency. All work that requires window openings to be expanded must be approved by the municipality and accommodated with appropriate permits.

The violations are subject to severe fines – and what’s more important , you’ll have to reconstruct windows installed with violations, which is even more expensive.

In this article, you’ll find out what these windows look like, what size they should be, and how to install egress windows in Saskatoon according to all regulations.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

+1 (866) 644 6418

What Are Egress Windows?

Egress windows are specifically manufactures to use as an emergency exit if fire or other emergencies occur. All egress window ,models must meet strict building code requirements to ensure they are large enough for safe escape and allow quick, unobstructed access from the inside.

Often found in basements, bedrooms, and other living spaces, egress windows are essential for safety and compliance with residential building codes.

These windows must have an opening that meets minimum size standards—typically a minimum width, height, and square footage—so residents can escape easily and first responders can enter if needed. Besides enhancing safety, egress windows also allow natural light and ventilation, making rooms more comfortable and liveable.

Saskatoon Building Code Requirements For Egress Windows

In order to meet minimum fire code requirements all windows installed in Canada must be at least 0.35m² (3.8ft²) with both height and width not being less than 380mm (15in) in length.

What if your windows do not meet egress requirements?

It is common for some openings in the house to not be smaller than the minimum fire code size. To comply with egress it may be necessary to cut or expand the opening to accommodate a bigger window.

One thing to think about is that most window companies don’t do cut-outs. While a cut-down is often within the scope of a window installers work, expanding the window to the side or cutting concrete is a job that requires a permit.

Most window companies are happy to work together with cut-out companies, but prefer to leave the work to the professionals. Even if you think your cut-out is not substantial, you should still look into whether your installation needs a permit.

Another thing to be mindful of when picking a window company in Saskatoon, is that sometimes companies will blatantly lie and say that a permit is not required for the cut-out. Because filing for a permit is the responsibility of a client, many companies simply see it as another roadblock to collecting a paycheque and avoid telling the homeowners about required paperwork.

Worse yet, sometimes homeowners simply don’t want to deal with this and ask for work to be done without a permit. Best case scenario, you save a couple hours and a hundred dollars if you don’t get a permit. Worst case scenario, someone dies.

Egress Window Price: Estimate Your Project in Saskatoon

The cost of egress window replacement starts at approximately $2,000 but varies depending on many factors. The final price is affected by the type of windows you choose, their size, the amount of installation work, the qualifications of specialists, and so on. Additional work, such as excavation for the basement window, digging, and installing a window well or stairs, will also increase the final cost.

Casement & Awning $1,260 – $1,478

Sliding $1,021 – $ 1,545

Hung $1,041 – $ 1,373

Bay & Bow $2,131 – $3,101

Fixed Picture $875 – $1,655

Hopper $687 – $1,661

Custom Shape $1,781 – $2,151

Unlike many egress window manufacturers who provide standard, ready-made options, Ecoline pays special attention to its clients and what they are looking for – that’s why we offer custom-shaped window manufacturing and installation.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

+1 (866) 644 6418

To calculate the approximate price range of your window replacement project, you can use our egress window calculator (find it at the top of the page). Enter your specifications, such as:

• window style
• location
• size
• or glazing type, and get a free quote.

You can also request a quote by sending us a message. We’ll consider all the ins and outs about the project and make the best quote. Alternatively, you can use our Egress Windows calculator to get a rough estimate in seconds:

The Best Window Styles for Egress Installations

When installing egress windows for your home in Saskatoon, only certain styles are allowed since they meet safety requirements for emergency exits. Here’s a quick guide to approved styles:

• Casement Windows: Known for their wide openings, casement windows are often preferred for egress purposes. They swing outward on hinges, allowing for a large, unobstructed exit space, ideal for meeting width and height regulations.
• Sliding Windows: Horizontal sliders can also qualify as egress windows if they meet size requirements. While they don’t open fully like casements, sliding windows provide easy operation and, when large enough, can serve as a safe exit.
• Hopper Windows: These models may be used in smaller spaces if they meet the opening size requirements. They open inward, typically at the bottom, making them practical for low-clearance areas.
• Hung Windows: Single- or double-hung windows are egress-compatible if the lower sash meets size requirements when fully open. Double-hung windows offer more flexibility, especially for higher installation spots.

Each of these styles should be chosen carefully to ensure compliance with your local building codes for egress.

Basement Egress Windows in Saskatoon

Basement egress windows should comply to the same rules as above ground bedroom windows with the following addition when the window opens into a window well: Where a window required for a bedroom opens into a window well, a clearance of at least 760 mm (30 in.) must be provided in front of the window. Where the sash swings toward the window well, the operation of the sash must not reduce the clearance in a manner that would restrict escape in an emergency.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

+1 (866) 644 6418

In many cases, when basement windows are converted into bedroom basement windows, concrete cutting might be required in order to enlarge the existing window opening. In such cases many window replacement companies recommend hiring a company that will enlarge the window opening based on the proper window size that will be given by the window replacement company.

This work usually requires a permit from your municipality, so make sure to clarify with your company whether your window installation requires any additional approvals. As the homeowner, you are usually required to obtain and secure cut-out permit. After the opening is enlarged, the new window will be installed.