Window replacement may trigger requirement of larger size
Q. My home was built in 1989 with upgraded windows. The double-hung, aluminum-clad, wood windows are now starting to show their age. We want new vinyl high-efficiency double-hung windows. But the village is giving us a hard time with the permit.
They say the bedroom windows must meet egress requirements of a 5.7-square-foot opening. If the old windows do not meet that, the new replacement windows are no smaller than the existing windows. The replacement windows in a couple of the rooms are a little smaller. We have the new windows here already. Have you ever heard of a town being that picky? What do other people do?
A. The 1986 CABO One- and Two-Family Dwelling Code, section R-211.2, had a minimum requirement for a bedroom window of 5.7 square feet. Apparently your home did not meet codes when it was built and the village is within its rights to require the upgrade. The heading for this code is “Emergency Egress Openings” and should be taken seriously. Not only is the window designed for egress in case there is a fire or other emergency, it might also serve as a means of rescue by first responders.
Ÿ Dwight Barnett is a certified master inspector with the American Society of Home Inspectors. Write to him with home improvement questions at C. Dwight Barnett at d.Barnett@insightbb.com.
Scripps Howard News Service