Many homeowners often overlook the potential of their basements, relegating them to mere storage spaces or, at best, a laundry or utility room where the water heater sits. This is unsurprising, given how many basements are dark and damp and can feel closed in and unappealing.
However, with a thoughtful approach to renovation and the strategic installation of egress windows and other windows, these neglected areas can be transformed from dark and dingy corners into bright and inviting living spaces. Egress windows are crucial in maximizing natural light and elevating basement spaces, opening a realm of possibilities for using this space for living.
Many people don’t realize that installing windows in a basement, even when it is primarily underground, is not as tricky a remodeling project as you might imagine. True, it is unlike many renovations that standard remodeling contractors take on because it involves a different type of construction expertise. But companies like 509 Concrete Cutting and Egress Window help with this kind of project frequently in the Spokane area because we have the tools and know-how to alter the layout and design of basement spaces while still maintaining a home’s structural integrity. One critical aspect of remodeling basement spaces to make them more appealing is installing egress windows.
Egress windows are simply windows that, when installed, have a large enough opening for people to escape through in an emergency. They must be installed so that people exiting them can reach ground level via a ladder or steps (if the egress is below ground). All living spaces, such as bedrooms, must have an egress window to conform to building codes for safety. Basement spaces may not be used for bedrooms or other living spaces unless there is an accessible egress window in the basement space.
Strategic Placement for Optimal Sunlight Exposure
When embarking on a basement renovation project, it’s essential to consider how to make the most of natural light. Unlike the upper floors, there are more restrictions on where to place a window because basements are at least partly underground, and basement walls and posts usually provide structural support to the rest of the house. However, if you place windows in the right places, even a few can make a dramatic difference in the look and feel of a basement. A well-lit space with natural light feels larger and more inviting. Windows and fresh air contribute to a healthier and more enjoyable living environment.
One key consideration when installing egress windows is the orientation of your basement walls. Understanding which direction the walls face can help you capture the most sunlight throughout the day. In northern states like Washington or Idaho, placing the windows on the south side of the house ensures direct light exposure all day, creating a brighter and more vibrant atmosphere.
Avoiding the north side is crucial, as windows placed there may be overshadowed, limiting the amount of sunlight that penetrates into the basement. Consider the daily patterns of sunlight moving from east to west in this high northern latitude and strategically position your egress windows to maximize their effectiveness in brightening the space. Our contractors can help you choose the most beneficial locations.
In addition to looking at sunlight patterns throughout the year, you should address potential external obstructions that may block natural light. Trees, shrubs, fences, or other structures surrounding your home can cast shadows and hinder the flow of sunlight into the basement. Before installing egress windows, assess the external environment and consider removing any obstacles obstructing the light.
Unlocking New Uses for Basement Spaces
With the introduction of ample natural light through strategically placed egress windows, your basement can become much more than a storage room. Consider transforming the space into a cozy home office, a playroom for the kids, or even a comfortable guest suite. The possibilities are endless when you reimagine your basement as a bright, functional extension of your home.
At 509 Concrete Cutting and Egress Window, we have extensive experience installing egress windows for basements in homes throughout the Spokane area. Our expertise goes beyond the technicalities – we understand the transformative power of natural light in turning a basement into a welcoming and useful space. If you are interested in discovering the potential of your basement for expanding your living space, contact 509 Concrete Cutting and Egress Window today and let us guide you through the process of strategically choosing the right egress window and placing it effectively in your basement space. We stock various egress windows and doors in our facility, so you can start remodeling your basement immediately. Discover how we can help you add value and space to your home.
