Q: I’m thinking about starting a finishing basement project. It is not a walkout basement. Would an egress window/door be a good idea? I currently have 4 windows in the basement – 1 could be egress so to have outside access to bring things in/out. Pls advise.
Izolina de Rezendes
Hillsdale, NJ
A: Thank you for your submission. When finishing a basement, we believe it is always a good idea to have an egress exit. An egress window provides an additional entry point to your basement, and could be used as an emergency access point, if necessary. Most building departments require an egress window or door should you be including a bedroom in your basement finishing plan. You could also use an egress window for moving items in and out of your basement, but we suggest egress stairs for that purpose.