Written by

Kristen Cramer

June 14, 2023

Edited by

Sarah Noel

Fact-checked by

Tom Grupa

Average basement egress window cost

A basement egress window costs $3,000 to $7,000 installed, depending on the size and type. The price to add an egress window includes excavation, installation labor, the window, and a window well. Egress windows are also called "escape windows" because they provide an easy exit to the outdoors in an emergency.

Cost to add an egress window by type

Egress window prices range from $150 to $1,200 for the unit alone, depending on the window type and style. Each type has its own benefits:

• Casement and inward-swing windows cost more, but the entire window swings open, providing maximum exit space.

• Single-hung, double-hung, and sliding windows require double the minimum window size to meet code requirements because only half the window opens at a time.

• A casement, inward-swing, or horizontal sliding window allows the most vertical space, which can make it easier to climb out quickly in an emergency.

Egress window prices by glass quality

Egress windows come in single-, double-, or triple-pane options. Single-pane windows have only one layer of glass. Double-pane and triple-pane windows have additional layers with air or argon gas sandwiched between the glass to provide better insulation and improve energy efficiency.

• Upgrades like low-E coated, frosted, or laminated glass raise the window price by 10% to 20%.

• Building codes in most areas require tempered glass if the egress window includes any panes greater than 9 square feet or if the bottom edge of the window is less than 18" from the floor.

Egress window installation cost factors

Factors that affect the total cost include:

• Window size – Larger windows cost more but make it easier to escape quickly.

• Excavation – Excavation costs $1,000 to $3,000 to dig the window well. A professional mini-excavator operator must dig directly next to your home without damaging the foundation.

• Foundation type – The installer will need to cut through the foundation wall to open and frame the window space. Cutting through a poured concrete foundation typically takes longer and costs more than opening a concrete block foundation.

• Accessibility – Installation costs increase if the area is difficult to access with a mini-excavator. Labor fees also increase for sites on a steep slope or with other landscaping obstructions.

• Window well type – Basic corrugated-steel window wells cost $300 to $800, and stylish fiberglass composite wells designed to look like brick or stone cost $1,000 to $2,000+.

• Permits – Egress window installation typically requires one or more permits, which cost $50 to $200 each. Most professionals include this fee in their project estimate.

• Add-ons & accessories:

  • Window well cover – A well cover costs $250 to $500+ and prevents people and animals from falling into the well. A well cover also keeps out leaves and debris. Clear polycarbonate well covers allow the most natural light through the window.

  • Ladder – An egress ladder costs $50 to $300 and fits into the window well.

  • Weather-stripping costs $10 to $50 and seals the gaps around the edges of the window to prevent air from entering or existing.

Labor cost to install an egress window

Labor to install a new egress window costs $2,000 to $3,500, including excavation, cutting the foundation, framing the window opening, and installing the window.

Labor to replace an existing egress window with a new one costs $200 to $500, including removing and disposing of the old window. However, labor costs increase to $1,000 or more if replacing the window requires new excavation or if the window well also needs replacing.

DIY egress window cost

An egress window kit costs $1,600 to $2,500+ and comes with a window, frame, and window well for DIY installation. However, incorrect installation can result in structural damage, foundation problems, drainage issues, and leaks. Hire a pro for the best results to ensure your window passes all inspections.

Egress window FAQs

What is an egress window?

An egress window is a standard window that's large enough to allow a home's inhabitants to escape in an emergency. Egress windows are known as "escape windows" for this reason. A fire, flood, or other natural disaster can trap residents in a basement if it doesn't have egress windows.

Do egress windows add value to a home?

An egress window adds value to a home because it converts your basement into potential living space. Listing the house with more bedrooms and square footage of living space when selling can significantly increase your home's resale value.

However, the amount of added value depends on your location, the real estate market, and the home's current number of bedrooms.

Are egress windows worth it, and what are the benefits?

An egress window is worth it to provide an emergency exit from your basement. According to building codes, converting a basement room into a living space requires adding an egress window.

The benefits of egress windows include:

• Providing an emergency exit

• Letting in more natural light

• Improving ventilation

• Increasing home value

How long does it take to install an egress window?

Installing an egress window takes 1 to 3 days on average, including excavation, foundation wall cutting, framing the window opening, and installing the new window and window well. Installation may take longer if workers must reroute electrical wiring or plumbing.

What size is an egress window?

Basement egress windows must meet the following size requirements, according to International Residential Code (IRC):

• The minimum window opening area is 5.7 square feet.

• The minimum egress window opening width is 20".

• The minimum egress window opening height is 24".

• The bottom of the egress window must be no more than 44" from the finished floor.

• If the bottom of the egress window is below ground level, a window well of at least 9 square feet is necessary and must allow the window to open fully.

• Window wells deeper than 44" require a permanently attached egress ladder or steps.

Where are egress windows required?

An egress window or other emergency escape exit is required in a basement with a bedroom, office, TV room, or other living space. If a basement has multiple habitable rooms, each room must have its own egress opening. These openings must exit directly to the outside, such as to a yard or street.

Every bedroom in the home, along with all habitable attic rooms, must also have an egress window or door providing direct access to the outdoors.

Getting estimates from egress window installers

When hiring an egress local window installer, remember to:

• Obtain estimates from at least 3 installers.

• Select licensed, bonded, and insured companies who have been in business for 5+ years.

• Read reviews for egress window installers on HomeGuide and Google.

• Get a detailed contract and warranty in writing before the project begins.

• Never pay in full before the project begins.

• Make the final payment only after the work is complete and has passed all inspections.

Questions to ask

Ask these questions to ensure you hire the best egress window installer near you:

• How much experience do you have installing egress windows?

• Can you provide references and photos of your past work?

• Which type of window do you recommend for my basement, and why?

• What material is the window well made of?

• How long will the egress window installation take?

• Does the estimate include cleanup after the project?

• Will this project need a permit, and will you handle it?

• Do you offer a warranty on the window and labor?