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Wonder how to boost your house market value? Want to add more comfort to your space?  It's time to redo your basement, then! Installing egress windows for basement is a great way to make room for a second bedroom, a home office, or a family area and convert it into a more livable, functional, and user-friendly space. Not only can it make your home more comfortable, but it may also make a big difference in how much your house is worth when you decide to sell it.

Basically, large windows that can be used as an emergency exit are referred to as egress windows. Egress literally means "to emerge" or "a path out."

It is a legal requirement to have egress windows if you want to convert your basement into a bedroom, an office, or a family room. 

The International Code Council guidelines state that every basement, livable attic, and bedroom must have an egress window, also known as "Emergency Escape and Rescue Opening." It basically means that it should have a window that a person can fit through or a door that opens outside.

In Canada, any room used for sleeping should have Egress windows with unobstructed openings. These windows must meet size regulations specified by the National Building Code of Canada, which include the following:

Choosing the type of egress window for your basement depends upon several factors, such as the layout of your basement and your budget. Here are the NBCC (National Building Code of Canada) approved egress window styles that you can choose from:

Egress windows are one of the most efficient projects that allow you to completely recover your cost in the resale value. 

The value that Egress windows add depends upon your house and its location. Installing this window in your basement will allow you to market it as an additional room, adding around an average of $20,000. 

A legal basement bedroom with Egress windows will add an approximate value of 50%-70% of the above-ground equivalent. The presence of an ensuite bathroom enhances the likelihood of receiving a more significant return on a basement bedroom. Egress windows make your house more marketable in two ways:

Installing new Egress windows to your basement allows you to create additional space in your house. However, they should meet strict local building code requirements to bring maximum value and provide correct escape routes. That is why it is crucial to hire professional window installers and consult with them regarding what works best for your house before renovating your basement.

If properly installed, these windows will improve light, ventilation, and energy efficiency while significantly boosting the value of your home.