How do you make an egress window cover?

An egress window cover is an important safety feature in basements and lower levels of homes. An egress window provides an emergency exit in case of fire or other danger, allowing occupants to escape from lower levels. However, you don’t want to leave these windows unattended as they can allow unwanted access, sunlight, drafts, and views into your home. A properly made egress window cover addresses these issues while still allowing the window to serve its emergency purpose.

Making an egress window cover is a relatively straightforward DIY project. The main considerations are using rigid materials that don’t impede exit, adding quick release hardware for easy removal, and matching the aesthetic of your existing décor. This article will walk through the entire process step-by-step, covering planning, materials, construction, installation, and use. We’ll also look at creative options to make your cover blend seamlessly into your room.

Follow along below and you’ll have a fully functioning egress window cover custom-fit for your space.

Planning Your Egress Window Cover

The first step is taking measurements and planning the design. Consider the following:

• Measure the height and width of the window frame inside and out. Make sure to measure the diagonal as well to account for any variance.
• Decide on a style – will your cover swing open, slide open, or lift out? This affects the hardware needed.
• Choose a rigid material such as plywood, polycarbonate panels, or plexiglass. The cover must be sturdy enough not to collapse if weight is applied.
• Determine a finish to match your room – will you paint, stain, or upholster the cover?
• Plan the mounting method based on your window frame and surrounding walls.
• Make sure any hinges, tracks, or hardware will allow quick removal in an emergency.
• If you have multiple egress windows, consider making all covers match for consistency.

Take your time with planning and don’t cut corners. Precision measurements and construction are crucial for proper function and aesthetic.

Gathering Materials

Once you’ve completed planning, it’s time to gather your materials. You’ll need:

• Your chosen rigid sheet material such as plywood or polycarbonate, cut to size with your window measurements
• Finish materials such as paint, stain, fabric, or upholstery padding
• Mounting hardware such as hinges, tracks, or lift-out removable pins
• Carriage bolts, wing nuts, handles, pulls, or other quick release hardware
• Weather stripping
• Wood putty or trim pieces to cover cuts and seams for a finished look
• Electric drill and bits
• Saw appropriate for your material such as a circular saw or jigsaw
• Screws
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper
• Safety equipment such as glasses, gloves, and mask

Purchase quality materials from hardware stores and lumber suppliers. Poor quality or warped materials won’t create a functional cover.

Constructing the Cover

Now it’s time for construction. Follow these steps:

1. Cut your main panel to the window frame measurements, with an added 1/8″ gap on all sides to allow operation. Cut gently to avoid jagged edges.
2. Predrill holes for hardware installation to prevent cracking. Drill pilot holes in corners to attach hinges or slide tracks.
3. Create any decorative edging, trim, or frames to sandwich and finish the panel. Cut, glue, and clamp decorative pieces.
4. Attach hinges, slides, or other hardware using screws. Make sure mechanisms operate smoothly.
5. Add lifts, pulls, handles, or quick release hardware. Carriage bolt and wing nut sets allow fast removal.
6. Finish raw wood edges with trim pieces or wood putty for a smooth look.
7. Apply your choice of finish – paint, stain, or fabric cover. Allow finish to fully cure.
8. Attach weather stripping around the cover’s backside perimeter to seal gaps when installed.

Follow all safety procedures during cutting, drilling, and finishing. Wear eye and ear protection. Allow materials to fully cure before handling to avoid injury.

Installing Your Cover

Once construction is complete, it’s time for installation. Have a helper for larger covers.

1. Hold the cover in place and mark where mounting hardware will attach it to the window frame or surrounding walls.
2. Predrill these mounting holes, then set the cover aside.
3. Using appropriate hardware, attach mounting plates, hinges, or other attachments at your marks. Make sure they are level and anchored securely.
4. Lift the cover into position and insert mounting screws. Adjust until the cover sits centered and flush.
5. Test operation by opening, closing, and removing the cover completely. The cover should swing, slide, or lift out without binding or resistance.
6. Make any adjustments needed to hardware or mounting points until operation is smooth.
7. Consider adding security features like child-safe latches to prevent unwanted access when closed.

Apply sealant around edges to prevent air and water getting behind the cover.

Take care not to damage the window frame or glass when installing. The cover should allow smooth operation for emergency egress when needed.

Using and Maintaining Your Cover

Your egress window cover serves an important safety purpose. Follow these usage and care tips:

• Open the cover to test emergency escape operation every month. This ensures it does not become inadvertently sealed or painted shut.
• Lubricate hinges and slides with silicone spray if operating becomes difficult.
• Check for damage, cracks, or wear every 6 months. Repair issues immediately to maintain function.
• Refasten any loose mounting hardware. Loose covers can fall, causing injury.
• Reapply protective finish regularly, especially if cover is exposed to direct sunlight.
• Ensure latches and lifts remain operational for children and others to open quickly when needed.
• Practice emergency escape plans using the egress window so occupants learn proper operation.

With proper construction, installation, and care your egress window cover will serve you well for many years. Be sure to pass along any maintenance records to new homeowners if you move.

Unique Egress Window Cover Options

While any rigid material will work, you can also explore unique egress window cover ideas:

Blend into the Wall

Use wood paneling, wallpaper, or tiles to make the cover disappear into your wall design when closed. Just ensure the finish does not impact operability.

Upholstered Design

An upholstered cover padded with foam and wrapped in fabric can blend in with other upholstered furniture or walls. Use velcro or snaps to allow access.

Painted Artwork

Have an artist paint a mural or faux windows on your cover. This disguises its function while adding personality.

Wall of Bookshelves

A large bookshelf unit camouflages the cover when installed in front. Make a section easily removable for egress.

Mirror Cover

A mirror mounted over the window reflects light and adds space visually. Hinge at the top so the mirror swings up and out of the way.

Curtained Cover

Install a fabric window curtain that draws to the side. Attach velcro at the seams for quick detachment.

Secret Bookcase Door

A bookcase built around the window swings open on concealed hinges, disguising the egress cover.

With some creativity, you can make your egress cover as unique as your home’s style. Just maintain the ability to open it easily in an emergency.

Conclusion

Installing an egress window cover improves comfort and aesthetics without sacrificing safety. With the right materials, proper construction, and routine maintenance, you can have a cover that blends into your home’s decor. As you plan your project, focus on precise sizing, smooth operation, and quick release function. And be sure to make emergency escape plans with your household so everyone knows how to exit easily. Your cover will improve daily life while still allowing critical emergency egress when needed.