Egress Window Cost Guide: What You Need to Know for 2025

So, you're thinking about installing egress windows. Maybe you're finishing your basement and need a safe exit, perhaps you want to enlarge the existing egress window, or it may be that you need an egress window in the bedroom or the attic. Either way, you're likely wondering about the egress window cost, right?

On average, egress windows cost between $2,000 and $5,000 or even more. The final price depends on many factors, including the window location, the window type, whether there is a need for excavation and connection to drainage systems, and others. In this guide, we'll discuss every aspect you should consider when planning for an egress window installation, so keep reading!

Key Takeaways

• What is an egress window? Egress windows serve as emergency exits in basements, attics, bedrooms, and other habitable spaces. They must meet specific size requirements outlined in local building codes, ensuring that people can escape safely in case of an emergency.
• How much does an egress window cost? Egress window prices range from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on factors like window size, type, and location. Labor costs can vary from $40 to $100 per hour, with additional expenses for excavation, window wells, and drainage systems. Installing a new window where there wasn’t one before will cost significantly more than replacing an existing window.
• Types of egress windows. Casement windows are by far the best egress windows, although hung windows and sliding windows can also serve as egress windows as long as they meet building code requirements.
• Can I install an egress window myself? While installing a window yourself can save money, it comes with risks that may not be worth these savings. Professionals handle everything, from securing permits to ensuring proper drainage, making sure the window performs well, and there are no structural issues.

What Is an Egress Window, And Why Is It Important?

Egress windows are windows that serve as emergency exits. They must meet specific size requirements outlined in local building codes. For example, any window that has an opening area of at least 0.35 square meters (3.77 square feet) and a width and height of at least 380 mm (15 inches) is an egress window. If the window is below ground level, it needs a window well with a clearance of at least 760 mm (30 inches). Moreover, the bottom of the window should be 1.5 meters (59 inches) or less above the floor.

According to the International Residential Code, "Basements, habitable attics, and every sleeping room shall have not less than one operable emergency escape and rescue opening." Failure to comply with these requirements can lead to serious legal consequences. Moreover, when it's an emergency, the lack of egress windows can put the lives of inhabitants in danger.

The benefits of egress windows go beyond this. They also bring in more natural light and fresh air, which is a major advantage for basements and attics. But if you want to learn more about them, check out our comprehensive guide about egress windows!

How Much Does An Egress Window Cost?

An egress window costs between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on window type, size, location, and the necessity for excavation, window wells, and window well drainage. Let's discuss everything in detail.

Window Type

First of all, any window can be an egress window as long as it meets legal egress window requirements. For example, casement windows serve as excellent egress windows. Sliding and hung windows aren't always the best because only half of the rough opening can be actually opened for escape. Awning and hopper windows do not meet egress requirements because they usually only open up to a 45-degree angle or even less. (we'll discuss more about each egress window type below, so keep reading!).

With these in mind, here are the average prices for different types of windows, which can serve as a starting point for your egress window cost calculation:

• Casement windows: $400 - $2,500
• Hung windows: $300 - $2,500
• Sliding windows: $300 - $2,500
• Bay/bow windows: $1,800 - $4,500+ (they can incorporate casement or hung windows, which can serve as egress windows as well)

There is a big gap between the minimum and maximum prices because the final cost highly depends on the quality of the materials, the number of glass panes used, and other factors.

Now that we've cleared how much the window itself may cost, let's see what other things you may have to pay for to have an egress window installed.

Labor

The price per hour for labor ranges from $40 to $100, reaching approximately $1,000 per window, depending on how complex the egress window installation process is. Moreover, in some cases, it may be necessary to consult a structural engineer or an electrician to make sure the installation won't cause any issues.

Existing Window vs New Window

Most of the time, basements already have windows, and most homeowners simply want to replace them to meet egress basement window requirements. In this case, the costs are much lower because the rough opening is already there - it just needs to be enlarged. The average egress window pricing for labor for replacing a window with another one of the same size is $200. If the window needs to be enlarged, the price increases.

On the other hand, if you've just bought an older house, for example, that has no window in the basement, you'll have to spend more on labor because it will also imply cutting out a new opening. This process is more complicated and requires the workers to ensure enough support to maintain the building's construction. Cutting a new window opening costs approximately $700 per window.

Excavation Costs

If the egress window needs to be installed below ground level, you'll have to pay for excavation, which costs between $50 to $200 per cubic yard. Most windows require an excavation of 1-1.5 cubic yards, so you may have to pay as much as $300 per window.

The costs are high because the workers will have to be extremely careful to work around plumbing and to preserve your outdoor landscape. Moreover, they have to install a window well, which is a recessed area around the egress window, serving as an emergency exit route. Window wells also have to meet legal requirements in terms of clearance area.

However, in some cases, if there's an existing window, excavation may not be necessary if there's enough room for window replacement.

Window Well Drainage

Since water accumulates in the window well, it also needs to be connected properly to a drainage system so it doesn't affect window functionality and cause water leaks.

Therefore, connecting a window well to a drainage system can cost between $500 and $1,500.

Permit Fees

Permit fees are another important consideration when calculating the egress window installation cost. Depending on local regulations, these costs can range from $50 to $200. It’s important to note that if you’re replacing an existing window with one of the same size, a permit might not be necessary although you should undoubtedly confirm this with local authorities. However, for new installations or enlargements, obtaining a permit is usually a legal obligation.

Homeowners unsure about permit requirements should contact local authorities for assistance. However, if you work with an egress window professional, they may be able to help you with the permits, taking this burden off your shoulders.

Window Location

We've discussed mostly basement window installation in the above sections, but the law requires every living space in a house to have an egress window. As such, you'll also need an egress window in every bedroom in the house and in the attic if it's a habitable space. A living room may also require an egress window. Ultimately, every sleeping room needs an egress window unless there is another operable emergency escape route.

As such, here's an approximate cost breakdown based on egress window location:

• Basement: $1,500-$5,000
• Bedroom: $1,000 - $4,000
• Living room: $1,000 - $4,000
• Attic: $1,000 - $4,000

Comparing Different Types of Egress Windows

We've already mentioned briefly that any type of window can be an egress window as long as it meets building code requirements. Now, let's discuss more about each window type.

Casement Windows

Casement windows are undoubtedly the best egress windows. They are hinged on one side and open outwards like a door, ensuring a clean and safe exit route.

On the downside, most casement windows open with a crank mechanism, which isn't the best opening mechanism for quick escapes. Crank mechanisms fail rather quickly and sometimes it takes a lot of time to open a casement window fully, so you can escape through it. In case of emergencies, those extra seconds can be life-changing. Moreover, crank mechanisms are also prone to seasonal-specific issues like frozen gears and hinges. Ultimately, if you do choose to install a crank casement window as an egress window, it is of utmost importance to maintain the hardware properly to ensure the window is functional at all times.

On the other hand, you can also opt for casement windows without cranks, which are much more easy to open and require little to no maintenance. We're talking about Magic's crankless and hingeless windows, which operate on our patented Parallex Hardware System that requires you to simply turn the handle and slide the sash along a track to open the window - in just a few seconds!

Single- and Double-Hung Windows

Single- and double-hung windows are another good option for egress windows, known for their ease of use and classic design. These windows feature two sashes - in single-hung windows only the bottom one is operable, in double-hung windows both are operable.

These windows can serve as egress windows as long as their opening area meets legal requirements, which means that egress hung windows will be much larger than casement windows because only half (or slightly more for double-hung windows with a tilt-in option) of their total size serves as an opening area. Moreover, if you're using the tilt-in function to escape through a double-hung window, for example, you'd have to climb over the sash to exit through that window, which can be rather difficult and take more time.

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows are favored for their space-saving design and ease of operation, and they're also excellent egress windows because they're usually quite wide. These windows slide horizontally along a track, making them an excellent choice for areas with limited space.

However, there's one important aspect to consider if you want to install a sliding window as an egress window - it usually has only one operable sash. And even if the other is operable, the clear open area will never be as large as the entire window, only half of it. So, it's important to take this into consideration when planning to install a sliding window as an egress window.

Additional Costs to Consider

We've already discussed the most important things to take into account when calculating the egress window cost, but they're not the only ones that influence the final price. Here are some other factors that are worth considering:

• Window frame materials. Vinyl frames, for example, are more budget-friendly, while fiberglass and composite materials are more expensive.
• Energy efficiency. An egress window can have two or three glass panes, Low-E coatings, and additional energy-efficient window treatments, if necessary. All these add to the costs.
• Glass type. An egress window can have tempered, laminated, or impact-resistance glass for increased safety, all of which come at different prices.
• Window well cover. If you don't want debris and water to accumulate in the window well, you'll have to install a window well cover, which can cost between $80 and $300.
• Additional security features. If you're planning to install a basement egress window, you may also want to install additional security features, as these windows are often the entry points for burglars. You can install bars, for example, or additional locks.
• Weatherproofing. Some specialists offer weatherproofing services for below-ground-level egress windows. They basically apply a high-quality cement repair around the egress window, which prevents future leaks.

Professional Installation vs. DIY

Deciding whether to install an egress window yourself or hire a professional is a big decision. Professionals have the know-how to handle tricky building codes, pull permits, and ensure everything is up to safety standards - saving you from potential worries and costly mistakes. Plus, they work faster, which translates into less disruption to your home.

On the other hand, going the DIY route can save you money on labor if you're handy and comfortable with tools. But it also comes with risks - handling heavy materials, navigating codes on your own, and the possibility of expensive do-overs if something goes wrong.

Ultimately, while DIY projects can be satisfying, egress windows are a critical part of home safety, and installing everything correctly from the beginning is extremely important.

Questions to Ask Your Egress Window Installer

When planning for egress window installation, asking the right questions can help minimize miscommunication, save money, and ensure desired results.

First, make sure the team you'll work with has the necessary experience and credentials to handle your project. You can also ask for photos or references for past egress window projects. Furthermore, you should ask whether they will take care of permits or if this falls within your responsibility.

You should also confirm with them beforehand what kind of work is required for your particular window. Last but not least, ask the egress window installers if they provide a warranty for their work and whether they can handle any post-installation leaks or drainage problems.

Also, don't forget to confirm if they also take care of cleaning up and removing debris after the project is done.

Final Thoughts

Choosing an egress window isn’t just about picking a style you like; it’s about ensuring your home meets legal requirements. Yes, costs can add up, but so can the benefits: increased home value, improved ventilation, and most importantly, a safe exit in an emergency.

If you want to learn more about Magic windows, their functionality, and why they perform well as egress windows, you can book a free consultation with us! One of our specialists can assess your space and provide you with a solution that is fully tailored to your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to add an egress window?

It can cost between $2,000 and $5,000 to add an egress window. Basement egress windows are more expensive because they may also require excavation, connection to drainage systems, and other structural changes.

Does adding an egress window add value?

Installing an egress window definitely adds home value because having egress windows in every habitable space in the house is a legal requirement.

What are the disadvantages of egress windows?

One of the biggest disadvantages of basement egress windows, which are installed below ground level is that they are at a higher risk of water leaks, which can cause foundation damage and flooding.

Do I need a permit to install an egress window?

Yes, you typically need a permit to install an egress window, with costs ranging from $50 to $200, but replacing an existing window of the same size usually does not require one.

What are the labor costs for installing an egress window?

Labor costs for installing an egress window typically range from $40 to $100 per hour, amounting to approximately $1,000 for standard projects.

How do I choose the right type of egress window?

To choose the right type of egress window, focus on ease of operation and how much space you have available. Casement, double-hung, and sliding windows each offer different benefits and cost ranges, so select one that fits your needs.

What additional costs should I consider for egress window installation?

It's important to account for additional costs such as window wells, the necessity to cut a window opening, and potential fees for hiring structural engineers or electricians, as these can substantially increase your overall installation expenses.