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Windows finished basement barrie ON
AUTHOR Question: Windows finished basement barrie ON
Bingo
barrie
Posted 10/8/2012 at 10:15:46 PM
Hi there,

I want to finish my basement for some more living space, its dry and in good condition. My question is do I need to have larger windows?
 
 
RESPONSES
Jeff from Newson Interiors
Newson Interiors
Renovation Company in Dunrobin
Posted 10/8/2012 at 11:42:02 PM
Bingo,

It all depends on what the use of the space you are creating is. If you are adding a bedroom or a rental suite, yes the windows must be larger. If it's just a media/game room etc. then they can be as they are.

It's always a good idea if you are going to use the space to ensure that there is one egress window. (large enough to escape in case of fire), regardless of code. If you are trapped down there with a fire at the top of the stairs, you'll be glad you spent the cash on an egress window.

Hope that helped.

Jeff Newson,
Owner,
Newson Interiors.
Harry from Open Door Windows and Doors Inc.
Open Door Windows and Doors Inc.
Windows and Doors Company in North York
Posted 10/9/2012 at 12:31:38 AM
Hi Bingo

If you planing to have a sleeping beds, even if its not on a regular but occasionally you need to have at least 2 exits from the basement. One is the stairs down and if you don't have an extra door to outside you need to have a window to escape.

The window needs to have two critical sizes : one is a clear space to escape of at least 3.9 sq. foot. The other is that the sort side has to be at least 15".

If the window will finish lower then the ground then you need to dig a well with instructions in there too.

Hope this helped.

Thanks
harry C.
James from Fram Construction & Design Ltd
General Contractor in Niagara Falls
Posted 10/9/2012 at 12:59:21 AM
There is no need to increase window size unless you need for fire escape. If one of the rooms is going to be a bed room yes the window installed must be usable as an escape route. Enlarging them brightens the space as well.

Hope that was helpfull,

James fram
Fram Construction and design Ltd.
Peter from Renovation Solutions Inc.
Renovation Contractor in Markham
Posted 10/9/2012 at 7:03:25 AM
Bingo,

Bedroom in the basement requires second exit. But when you apply for the permit (mandatory) they will advise you. Note there is a permit required bedroom or not.

Peter McILmoyle
Renovation Solutions inc.
Andrew from AMB Construction
General Contractor in Vaughan
Posted 10/9/2012 at 8:02:50 PM
Hi,

Always is warts increase basement windows but it required more attention. Even 3'x4' window is not too big if you install proper skylights above window. Of course it is more expensive.

Andrew
AMB Construction
 

 

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