Egress Windows Size Requirements: Pro Tips Before Installation

Egress windows are more than a legal requirement—they are essential for any livable space, including bedrooms and basements. Whether designing a new bedroom or planning to convert your basement into a habitable area, ensuring your windows meet egress standards is crucial for safety and comfort.

These windows provide an emergency escape route during disasters like fires, offering peace of mind and compliance with local building codes.

In addition, with basement renovations being on the rise in Canada, proper egress window installation is becoming increasingly important. Today, we will explore everything you need to know about egress window sizes, the requirements set by law and which windows work best.

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

+1 (866) 644 6418

Egress Windows Minimum Size

According to the National Building Code of Canada (NBCC), in order to meet minimum egress 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. This is demonstrated in the diagram below:

But what can be done if the existing opening isn’t big enough to accommodate egress size windows?

This is a common scenario in converted rooms, as well as in the basement. In both cases, a wall cut-out is possible to enlarge the opening in order to fit new windows. Basement egress code has more requirements that must be adhered to, so be sure to look into those specifically.

One thing to consider when planning your window replacement project 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 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, 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.

Plain and simple, building permits are nothing to joke about. Yes, in 90% of installations, not getting a permit may not make a difference to the structural integrity of the building. But it’s best not find out the hard way.

Basement Egress Windows Size: Specific Requirements

As we have mentioned before, if you want to use a basement as a habitable space, it should strictly follow Canada basement windows egress size requirements. Thus, basement bedroom 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.

In many cases when basement windows are converted into bedroom basement windows, concrete cutting might be required 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.

This way you will ensure all the work is done properly and according to egress window requirements, and may save yourself a lot of headaches down the road.

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

+1 (866) 644 6418

What Window Styles Work Best for Egress?

When selecting the right style for egress windows, it’s essential to balance safety, functionality, and aesthetics. Depending on your space and needs, different window styles can meet the legal requirements for the size of egress windows in basements or bedrooms. Below are some of the best options to consider:

• Casement Windows: A top choice for egress, casement windows open fully on a side hinge, maximising the opening space. Their ease of operation makes them ideal for both basement and bedroom egress requirements.
• Sliding Windows: While slightly less spacious than casement options, sliding windows can meet the egress size for bedroom windows if they are large enough to provide a hassle-free exit. They are practical for horizontal spaces.
• Double-Hung Windows: These windows can work for egress if the operable sash provides the required clearance. They are a classic option that complements various home designs.

casement window

awning window

sliding basement window

double-hung window

egress window

These versatile styles can meet safety and design needs when installed correctly. But again, talk it through with your replacement window company to install the correct units that comply with the building requirements for egress.