What can I cover my egress window with?

An egress window is a window that serves as an emergency exit in case of fire or other danger. It allows occupants to escape from a basement or lower level of a home. Egress windows are required by most building codes for any bedroom in a basement or below-grade space. While these windows need to remain accessible and functional for safety, homeowners may wish to cover them for privacy, light control, or aesthetics. However, any coverings used must not block or hinder the window’s use as an exit.

What are the requirements for egress window coverings?

There are a few key requirements to keep in mind when choosing coverings for egress windows:

• The covering must be easily removable from the inside without the use of keys, tools or special knowledge.
• It cannot be screwed into the window frame in a permanent way – all attachments must be quick-release.
• It cannot impede or restrict the minimum clear opening size required for the window. This is at least 5.7 square feet for grade floor openings.
• The window must be able to be fully opened once the covering is removed.
• The covering must not reduce the structural integrity of the window or its frame.

As long as these conditions are met, an egress window can legally be covered with certain materials.

Bars and grilles

One option is installing vertical or horizontal bars or grilles over the window. These can add security while still allowing the window to function as an exit. The bars should have quick-release mechanisms on the inside so they can be taken off quickly in an emergency. Bar spacing should be at least 4 inches apart so the window opening size is not decreased.

Blinds and shades

Interior window blinds and shades are a popular choice for covering egress windows. These can be opened and closed easily from the inside. Blinds with cordless operation are best, as dangling cords may get tangled and caught when trying to open the window quickly. Blinds and shades should be mounted securely but not in a permanent, irreversible way.

Curtains and drapes

Light, sheer curtains or drapes are another option that allows visibility and airflow. These will not hinder use of the window as an exit. Curtain rods should be mounted securely but not in a way that damages the window or frame. Avoid drapes with heavy overlays or valances that could impede access to the window release. Make sure curtains open fully when the window is opened.

Decals and frosted film

Decorative window decals, frosted or opaque window films can provide privacy without blocking the window. These adhesive films peel off easily from the inside to allow the window to open. They can also help insulate the window. Just make sure not to cover more than a small portion of the window pane so the exit remains visible and accessible.

Interior storm windows

Acrylic or polycarbonate storm windows installed on the inside of the existing window can add insulation. Look for models designed for egress windows that have push-out or easy removal features so they can be opened quickly in an emergency. Do not use any permanent framing that could hinder access to the actual window release hardware.

Shutters and locks

Shutters and locks on the inside of the window are permitted as long as they can be operated quickly from the inside without keys or tools. The shutters should open fully when the window is open. Locks should have simple, quick-release mechanisms. These features still allow emergency escape while providing privacy and security.

Safety release screens

Screens designed for egress windows have safety release features so they pop out in the direction of escape under minimal force. These allow airflow and keep out insects while not hampering emergency escape. Proper installation is important so the release mechanisms function properly when needed.

Conclusion

Egress window coverings can allow privacy and prevent temperature loss while still meeting safety codes. When selecting and installing coverings, be sure they do not block access to the release hardware, decrease the clearance opening, require special tools to remove, or impede lifting the window fully. With careful selection and proper installation, egress windows can serve their vital safety purpose while offering aesthetic and functional benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cover my egress window with plywood?

No, covering an egress window with plywood or other solid materials that require removal by tools is not allowed. Any covering over an egress window must be quickly removable from the inside without tools. Plywood would block and restrict the emergency escape route.

What about a plexiglass panel – can I use that?

Plexiglass or other rigid acrylic panels are usually not recommended for egress window coverings. They could still impede safe escape unless designed with quick-release features. A safer option would be an interior storm window with push-out functions that allow quick access and escape.

Can I use blackout curtains on my egress window?

You can use blackout curtains on egress windows as long as they are easily removable or retractable from the inside. Avoid any curtains with weights or overlays that could get in the way when trying to open the window quickly. Blackout curtains should not cover release hardware or impede access to the window handles.

What’s the best way to cover an egress window well outside?

For window wells, lightweight grates or grilles that can be shifted aside from the inside make good covers. Other options like plexiglass or polycarbonate domes must have quick-release features to allow exit. Make sure the covering does not impede the minimum size opening or escape route up the window well.

Can I cover my egress window in the winter to insulate it?

For winter insulation, use temporary materials like sheets of plastic film or acrylic panels that can be quickly removed from the inside. You can also use indoor window insulation film or removable caulking. Do not seal the window permanently in a way that would hinder emergency use and escape. Proper weatherproofing is also important to prevent leaks around the window.

Do egress window coverings require special hardware?

Any latches, locks, or other attachment hardware on egress window coverings must allow quick, easy release from the inside without keys or tools. Items like hooks, magnetic catches, or slide bolts often work well. Make sure release mechanisms will function properly under stress in an emergency situation. Avoid hardware that is stuck, jammed or blocked.

How do I choose safe curtains or blinds?

For egress windows, look for curtains and blinds designed to be easily removable or retractable from the inside. Curtain rods should have breakaway features if pushed hard. Cordless blinds are ideal to prevent tangled cords. Make sure curtains or blinds open fully with the window and do not block handles or release hardware. Also check that the window can still open its full exit size when coverings are removed.