I want to DIY but don't know. I've searched this board on egress and did alot of reading. Also read the popularmechanics.com journal on installing egress. Our finishing plan for the basement is adding 2 bedrooms, 1 bath (full - already roughed), the rest is rec room/storage. The laundry room is there already.

Anyways, I read the code on minimum egress size...

Minimum opening area: ≥ 5.7 sq. ft.
Minimum opening height ≥ 24”
Minimum opening width: ≥ 20”

Our current basement windows are 32'' (width) by 20'' (height). The width minimum I meet, the height would require cutting down only one block (basement is block).

I've read the pro's charge alot to cut/install egress ($2k - $5k), but since I don't need alot of depth cut out, how much of a price would you think I'd be looking at?

Also, cutting down to that depth also would leave the sill above ground, but then I exceed the....

Sill height of window above floor: Not to exceed 44”

So, if the sill is still above ground after cutting, is there something I can install on the inside of the room as in a form of a built in ladder or similar to account for the floor to sill height maximum?

Or do I have to cut down the block to meet the "floor to sill" and install larger windows.

 

YOu will need to cut down the window height to "not exceed 44"", and install a taller window. Check with your local building inspector prior to doing all this, as there may be local regulations either harsher or more lienient than the norm. Also, make sure the bedroom has a method of egress.