Egress window well
#1
02-06-01, 07:27 AM
Recently installed an egress window into what will be a basement bedroom. This required a lot of digging, but the window looks great and has added much needed light and an escape route in case of emergency. My question is this; What can we do for an outside window well? Those aluminum wells are just so ugly, and after all the hard work we did to put in this beautiful window - I'd hate for my daughter to have a view of aluminum! We are considering a rock or decorative block wall of some type - possibly with a step. If we do this - does anyone know what the appropriate plan of action is? We're not against more digging if need be. Has anyone ever done this before? Or does anyone have a better/simplier idea? We also checked into those 3 piece weather resistant plastic type wells - but they are EXTREMELY expensive (upward of $600 or the size we would need). Any help or suggestions?
#2
02-06-01, 01:40 PM
Since you are using the basement as a bedroom, you really should considered the building codes as a minimum. When I installed my basement window, there were specific requirements for the size and location of the window. In addition the building codes specify whether or not a step is required. Check these codes first.
You have numerous options. I have seen translucent pictures that adhere to the glass to provide nice views. You may want to try some of the interlocking bricks that will create a nice stepped wall with minimal labor.
You have numerous options. I have seen translucent pictures that adhere to the glass to provide nice views. You may want to try some of the interlocking bricks that will create a nice stepped wall with minimal labor.
#3
02-07-01, 05:03 AM
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Now you have your egress window in you are almost done. Now for the well. Check with your building dept, and they will give you the dimensions for the well. If you don't want to use the metal kind, you can build your own well with concrete blocks, rock or whatever. They will have to be cemented together and remember, the will will go down deeper then your window. Good Luck
#5
03-15-01, 08:07 PM
we installed an egress window in our basement a couple of years ago. We installed 4x6 treated lumber on the sides of the well. We terranced the hole about 1/2 way up and now have a planter. We installed a split-rail fence around the hole to minimize anyone accidently falling in.
thanks again
