If there is an area where you most need natural light, free-flowing air, and an escape route in case of an emergency, it is your backyard basement. Older homes have small windows that barely bring light and have many functional features.

But modern homes are quickly adopting new, stylish, and highly practical backyard basement windows, which serve multiple purposes, including much-needed extra space and quality fresh air.

Importance of Backyard Basement Windows

When choosing new windows, confirm whether an emergency escape opening is required and whether the selected model complies. This is particularly important for backyard basement windows. Installing them helps bring in sufficient light and a wonderful view of the entire yard. You can also turn off the lights during the day to save on those massive energy bills.

Operating basement windows can provide natural ventilation when outdoor conditions are suitable. For example, you trap the heat within the basement. You can also stop the harsh outdoor air from coming into your basement.

You can also control the temperature within the basement by opening the windows to allow in a gentle breeze. The new basement windows also improve curb appeal, helping to increase your home’s value.

There is so much you can learn about backyard basement windows, especially from experts. If you are in Toronto, Canada, our window experts at Falcon WD can take you through the paces regarding windows for basements.

We are a highly experienced team with expansive knowledge of basement windows and egress windows in the basement. Our broad customization options enable you to choose the right basement window size and look.

Types of Egress Windows in Basement

Backyard Basement Windows

Unlike windows for other parts of your house, basement windows installation is near the ground. They also come in different types, each with unique features. Here are some examples:

Casement Windows

Another familiar name for casement windows is crank windows. They open by rotating a tiny crank that pushes the window outwards. A casement may suit a basement opening when its clear opening and the exterior clearance meet the project’s requirements.

Available proportions depend on the window system; assess the clear opening rather than assuming a required height-to-width ratio. Many older homes have these basement window types. But they are also excellent for modern homes, especially in the bathroom windows within the basement.

Awning Windows

Awning windows are top-hinged and open outward from the bottom. Their sash can obstruct an escape route, so do not assume they meet egress requirements. Wind-driven rain can enter an open window; consider the conditions before opening the awning windows to have a breeze of fresh air and light in your basement.

Slider Windows

Many modern homes install slider windows because of their suitability for daylight. The windows, which function like a sliding glass door, are excellent as backyard basement windows allowing you an open and pleasant view of your green garden and the overlapping landscape.

A key feature to check is the window frame, which has to be sturdy since it can have multiple uses. For instance, an egress window in the basement regularly opens from within the basement to allow light and air to enter. You can also use it to exit or even enter, an excellent escape route during emergencies.

Hopper Windows

These are also distinct windows for basements because of the air they help flow into your basement. Their build, angle, and shape make them perfect as a vent for quality, fresh air.

Hopper windows hinge at the bottom and effortlessly open. A small opening alone does not establish security; review the locks, glazing and installation, along with any required escape opening. If you want to enhance security and privacy, you can install opaque glass which prevents people from seeing through.

Picture Windows

Pictures are also known as fixed windows. These aren’t your typical egress windows in basement as they do not open, provide ventilation, or egress. But they are a perfect choice if you want to maximize the amount of light that penetrates your basement. The main installation aim is to provide sufficient light and outdoor views. They are large enough for those specific reasons.

Why Do You Need a Custom Egress Window in Basement Windows

Backyard Basement Windows

A window style is not automatically an egress window. The exact model, unobstructed opening and installation location must meet the applicable requirements.

They are primarily large and provide a quick exit. The windows make your basement more inviting due to the fresh air and natural light.

But homes are different, with different styles and practical needs. Measure the existing opening and confirm the required finished opening before selecting a standard or custom-sized product.

Falcon WD basement windows experts will come to the ground to take the exact measurements. They also discuss your style based on your basement exterior and interior décor so that anything they create matches your personality and curb.

Nominal frame dimensions do not establish emergency-escape compliance. Check the clear opening after accounting for the sash, hinges and any window-well restrictions.

Size Requirement for Egress Window in Basement

Building codes set opening and access requirements for basement windows. The National Building Code is a model code; Ontario’s adopted code and the project’s circumstances govern local requirements. Confirm the following with the municipal building department before ordering:

The required unobstructed opening area and minimum clear dimensions.
Whether the window can be opened from inside without tools and remain open without additional support.
The required window-well clearance and whether sash movement restricts escape.
The applicable sill-height, access and permit requirements for this basement.

Other critical requirements for an egress window in the basement include:

Basement windows that have to open from the inside of the basement. Because they are your way out of the basement.
The basement windows have to open fully without obstructing the window sash.

One material available for backyard basement windows is vinyl or UPVC. Vinyl frames resist rot. The surrounding opening can still suffer from water damage, but moisture, dirt and adjacent materials still need attention to prevent mould problems.

Get Your Backyard Basement Windows Replaced With Falcon WD

Do you need to replace your old backyard basement windows with the new egress window in basement? Give us a call at (647) 977-1010.

The egress window in basement provides double, even triple benefits. You can easily escape through them. The light and fresh air that enters improves your comfort level in the space below.

Falcon WD backyard basement windows experts are on standby to provide all the information you require. We also assess your base at zero cost and provide the most suitable windows based on your needs and style.