If you’re thinking about finishing your basement or adding a bedroom downstairs, one question might come to mind: Do I need an egress window?
These windows aren’t just a design choice, they’re safety features that provide a way out during an emergency and are often required by building codes.
But before moving forward, most homeowners want to know: How much does an egress window cost?
The answer depends on factors like the type of window, installation needs, and your location.
In this guide, we’ll break down typical price ranges, the main cost drivers, and why installing an egress window is a smart investment for both safety and value.
Average Cost of Egress Windows
Egress window installation usually falls into three main cost tiers:
- Basic Installation: $2,500 – $4,500
A straightforward project with minimal excavation and standard materials.
- Mid-Range Installation: $5,000 – $7,500
Often involves window wells, higher-quality materials, and moderate excavation.
- High-End or Custom Installations: $8,000+
Includes larger custom windows, significant excavation, or specialized finishes.
These ranges vary based on your home’s foundation, soil conditions, local labor rates, and the contractor you choose.
Types of Egress Windows with Costs
The style of window you choose has one of the largest impacts on cost.
Larger sizes or custom shapes add to both material and installation costs.
These costs are industry averages and do not include labor and installation costs – contact Bluegrass Foundation for an estimate based on your exact situation.
Casement Egress Windows
Hinged on one side, casement windows swing open like a door. They’re popular in basements with limited wall space because they provide a wide, easy-to-use opening with just one handle.
Cost Range: $430 – $1,300 per window.
Sliding Egress Windows
These open horizontally along a track, similar to a patio door. They need more wall width but are simple to operate and low-maintenance.
Cost Range: $250 – $1,200 per window.
Double-Hung Egress Windows
With two sashes that slide vertically, double-hung windows offer good ventilation and a classic look. However, both sashes must open fully to meet egress standards, making them less common in basements.
Cost Range: $2,000 – $5,000 per window.
Awning Egress Windows
Hinged at the top, these windows open outward like a small awning. They’re better suited for above-grade use because outward swing can interfere with window wells.
Cost Range: $2,000 – $7,000 per window.
In-Swing or Tilt & Turn Egress Windows
Designed to swing inward into the room, these are ideal for basements where landscaping, decks, or other obstructions prevent outward-opening windows.
They’re versatile and modern but require sturdy framing.
Cost Range: $400 – $900 per window.
Other Factors That Affect the Cost of Egress Windows
Excavation Needs
If your basement wall sits below ground level, contractors may need to dig out soil and create a window well. This excavation can range from minor digging to full-scale removal of soil and landscaping.
Deeper basements often require heavy equipment, which drives up labor and project costs.
Material Choice
Window frames come in several materials, each with different price points. Vinyl is budget-friendly and low-maintenance, fiberglass is stronger and more energy-efficient, and wood offers a premium look but requires sealing and upkeep.
The material you pick affects not only the upfront cost but also long-term durability.
Permits and Inspections
Because egress windows are a safety feature tied to building codes, permits are usually required. Fees for permits and inspections vary by municipality but are a necessary expense to ensure compliance.
Skipping permits could cause problems during resale or insurance claims.
Drainage Systems
Many egress windows require a window well to keep soil back, and proper drainage is critical to prevent water intrusion. Contractors may need to add gravel, drainage pipes, or connect to an existing sump pump.
These drainage solutions add to upfront costs but protect your basement from future water damage.
Accessibility of the Work Area
Homes with limited yard space, tight access for equipment, or landscaping obstacles can increase costs.
If contractors need to work by hand instead of with machinery, labor time and expense go up.
Finishing and Extras
Adding finishing touches such as interior trim, well covers, ladders (required by code in deeper wells), or even decorative window wells can raise costs.
While optional, these extras often improve both function and appearance.
Is an Egress Window Worth the Investment?
While egress windows require a significant upfront investment, most homeowners find they deliver long-term value that far outweighs the cost. Here’s how:
Safety for Your Family
Above all, egress windows are about protecting lives. In an emergency, such as a fire, having a safe exit point in the basement could be the difference between life and death.
They also provide peace of mind knowing your family and guests can quickly get out of the basement if needed.
Required for Basement Bedrooms
If you’re planning to use your basement as a bedroom, building codes almost always require an egress window.
Without it, the space cannot legally be considered a bedroom, which limits how you use your home and its official square footage.
Boosts Property Value
Homes with properly installed egress windows often see a noticeable increase in resale value.
Real estate agents and appraisers count basement bedrooms with egress as livable square footage, which can make your home more attractive to buyers and even justify a higher asking price.
Brings in Natural Light
Basements are notorious for being dark and uninviting, but egress windows allow sunlight to stream in. This instantly makes the space feel more open, cheerful, and livable.
Even if you’re not planning to sell your home, the improved atmosphere makes it more enjoyable for your family.
Improves Ventilation
Besides light, egress windows bring fresh air into the basement, helping reduce musty odors, humidity, and mold growth.
A well-ventilated basement is not only healthier but also more comfortable for living or entertaining.
Flexibility for Future Renovations
Even if you’re not using your basement as a living space now, installing an egress window gives you the flexibility to convert it later.
Whether you want to add a rental suite, home office, or extra bedroom, the egress window lays the groundwork for safe, code-compliant remodeling.
Energy Efficiency Options
Modern egress windows are available with energy-efficient glass and insulated frames, helping to improve your home’s thermal performance.
This can offset some heating and cooling costs over time while keeping the basement more comfortable year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan for Safety and Value
Egress windows may be an investment, but they pay off in safety, comfort, and home value. By adding natural light, ventilation, and a code-compliant escape route, they transform basements into safe, livable spaces.
Bluegrass Foundation Repair offers professional egress window installation with a focus on safety, quality, and long-term performance.
Contact us today for an inspection and a detailed cost estimate tailored to your home.
