Maybe you have considered adding a bedroom in your basement at some point. In that case you may know that in Manitoba there are rules around the minimum size of a window. A window in the room may be the only way to escape in case of a fire. Because of that you most likely will need to get a tape measure out and make sure your current window is big enough. Today’s standards need to be kept in mind before making further plans.
Another word for a window to escape from is an egress window. These windows require a few steps and can be costly depending on your foundation, but the added value of your house because of an extra bedroom makes a lot of home owners enthusiastic about adding an egress window in their basement. For most home owners it is a smart investment.
Millennium Contracting can help you with everything around installing an egress window and we can take care of all the different steps. Let’s break them down!
The steps
1. Client Consultation
We start with a home visit to see what the interior and exterior conditions are and to determine the type of foundation you have. Based on that we can give you an estimate for the work involved. If you want to go ahead, we will take the next steps.
2. Bringing in an engineer
We will contact an engineer. They will determine if the minimum size of an egress window will work in your specific situation and if the window can be made even bigger if that’s what you like. The engineer will also determine if any structural alterations are required. They will produce engineered drawings that will be needed for the next steps.
3. Application for a permit
Based on the engineered drawings we will apply for a structural alteration permit from the city of Winnipeg or one of the surrounding villages that we service. For more information on what the regulations are around basement renovations, please see the City of Winnipeg website. Please make sure to contact the city directly if you want to make plans, to make sure you are provided with the latest information, as things may change before we are able to update this website.
4. Ordering and installing the egress window
Now it is time for the next step: ordering and installing your new egress window. We wil first discuss the preferred window style with you and only order from the best suppliers who know our climate. The installation process requires us to follow all the structural changes as laid out by the engineer.
5. Inspection
After the installation is finished, the city building inspector will inspect and sign-off the permit when everything is done according to the specifications.
Other windows
Egress codes don’t only apply to basement developments, but need to be followed for all bedrooms. When you upgrade your windows, we like to talk to you about what to look for in the new window. We don’t only need to follow the current building code, but also want to offer you and your family a home that is as safe as possible, while being energy efficient and beautiful.
Yes, we can do all that.
Contact Millennium Contracting and Construction Services for a quote!
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