How Much Does It Cost to Replace Basement Windows
Cost to Install an Egress Window
The cost to install egress windows in your basement ranges from $2,535 and $5,302, with an average of $3,907. This includes $100 to $700 per window for materials and $100 to $250 per window for installation.
The total expense depends on several factors, mostly related to size, type, number and removal and replacement costs, if applicable. If you need additional services, like excavation or cutting through a wall, plan to pay about $1,500 to $3,000 per window.
On This Page:
- Egress Window Installation Cost Calculator
- Egress Window Prices
- Window Type
- Quality
- Basement Egress Window Installation Costs
- Pre-Fab vs. Custom
- Above-Grade vs. Below-Grade
- Location
- Property Type
- Legal Requirements
- DIY vs. Hiring a Window Pro
- FAQs
Cost data is based on actual project costs as reported by 603 HomeAdvisor members in .
Egress windows look and function like most other windows. The only difference is that they must have an opening large enough for you to climb out of your basement in an emergency. They come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit your house.
Installing egress windows isn't an easy DIY job, so you'll want to hire a pro. Windows are usually tricky to hang, especially if you need to reach the ones in the basement.
Egress Window Prices
Egress windows cost $100 to $700 per window. Options for your basement must have an opening of 5 square feet not including the frame. Besides this size minimum, prices vary based on dimensions and the way it opens.
Types of Egress Window
| Type of Window | Price |
|---|---|
| Casement | $200-$500 |
| Horizontal/Sliding | $150-$700 |
| Single-Hung | $100-$400 |
| Double-Hung | $250-$500 |
| In-Swing | $350-$700 |
Single-hung models run as low as $100 per window. If you want a sliding or in-swing style, you'll pay closer to $700 per window. Here are a few benefits of the five most popular egress window types:
- Casement: Opens out by means of a hand-crank, to increase the amount of fresh air
- Horizontal/Sliding: Slides open to the left or right, for rooms with narrow window wells
- Single-Hung: Opens vertically on one side, the most common window option
- Double-Hung: Opens on top and bottom, ideal for hotter climates
- In-Swing: Opens inward, great for older basements with small window openings
Window Glass Quality
Window glass quality also determines what you'll pay per unit. Double-paned options cost $200 to $500 per window. They are the most common because they are moderately-priced and reasonably effective at blocking noise and drafts. Single-paned units typically run less, while triple-paned go for more. Extra features like a low-E coating might add as much as 10% more to the total.
Compare Quotes for Your Basement Egress Windows
Return to Top
Basement Egress Window Installation Costs
The cost to install an egress window in your basement runs $100 to $250 per window, not including materials. This range assumes the room has an available opening of the correct size, with an existing well.
Window well replacement costs $500 to $2,000.
Pre-Fabricated vs. Custom Egress Windows
Pre-fabricated egress windows cost $100 to $500 per window, depending on the type. Custom sizes range from $500 to $700 per window.
Above-Grade vs. Below-Grade
Above-Grade: A sloping yard away from the house may allow you to install an above-grade window, even in the basement. For this type of installation, you may need units with an opening at least 5.7 square feet to meet building code requirements.
Below-Grade: Most basements require a below-grade installation, especially in older homes. In this case, you may need to cut into the foundation or concrete wall and dig a window well.
The cost to excavate land for the window well ranges from $50 to $200 per cubic yard. You'll typically have to cut 1 to 1.5 cubic yards per well. You may also need a cover to prevent moisture from the soil seeping in.
Egress Window Location
Egress windows cost $100 to $700 per window. This range is about the same whether you install it on the ground floor or the basement. The only major difference is that models for the ground floor and higher need to open at least 5.7 square feet.
You must have an egress window in every basement bedroom. Some states may also require you to put one in living areas below-grade.
Type of Property
The type of structure can determine which services you'll need. For example, an older home with small windows may require you to resize the opening. Here are a few common costs you may need to add to the total:
- Cut window opening: $700 per opening
- Remove and replace: $200 per window
- Resize window opening: $150-$200 per opening
What Are the Legal Requirements for Egress Windows?
Basement egress windows must meet International Residential Code requirements, including:
- Window well projecting at least 36" from the house, with a footprint 9 square feet
- Minimum opening of 5 square feet, not including the frame
- Ladders for wells more than 44" deep
- Minimum size 20" wide and 24" high
- Maximum sill height of 44"
- At least 35" of height for windows installed under decks
Digging a window hole in your foundation is a specialist job that needs to be done properly to avoid compromising the structural integrity of the house. You might need to pay for the following services:
- Cost to hire a land surveyor: $500
- Price to hire a structural engineer: $500
- Expense to hire an electrician: $350
Do I Need a Permit for Installing Egress Windows?
Yes, installing egress windows usually requires a building permit because they affect your safety in the home. If you need to dig or replace a well, you may need extra permits for excavation. Call your utilities, plumbing and telecommunications providers in advance. They can help you find the underground lines, so you don't accidentally cut into one.
Install a Basement Egress Window
Return to Top
DIY Egress Window Installation vs. Hiring a Contractor
Hiring a pro is usually the best decision for egress window installation. The job isn't something the typical homeowner can manage. An improper installation can make below-grade basements flood or leak during heavy rain or humidity. Poor grading can cause the well to trap water and leak into the living space.
When you call egress window installers near you, be sure to get at least three quotes. This is a competitive industry, which means you might be able to negotiate a lower price for labor.
FAQs
Do I need to install a window well cover?
Installing a window well cover costs $600 on average, and you may or may not need one. Covers keep out debris and water. For safety, test that the window and the well open easily and fully.
How many egress windows are required in a basement?
International Residential Code requires you to have one egress window in each sleeping space in your basement. For greater safety, convenience and natural lighting, you may choose to install one in other living areas.
What maintenance do I need to do on my basement egress windows?
Basement egress windows need to have a tight seal with no gaps. Weather-stripping costs about $105 per window. This can help prevent leaks, but you'll want to use material that allows you to open and close the window.
How do I stop black mold around my egress windows?
Stopping black mold around an egress window usually requires finding and fixing a water leak, the most common cause. Water damage repair costs $1,200 to $4,500.
Didn't Find What You're Looking For?
Return to Top
Was this page helpful?
How Much Does It Cost to Replace Basement Windows
Source: https://www.homeadvisor.com/cost/doors-and-windows/install-egress-windows/