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As a homeowner in Ottawa, you may be wondering what egress windows are required for your basement or cellar. Egress windows are a crucial aspect of home safety, providing a means of escape in case of an emergency. But what egress windows are required, and how do you ensure that your home meets the necessary standards? In this article, we will delve into the world of egress windows, exploring the requirements and regulations that govern their installation in Ottawa homes.
In Ottawa, the Ontario Building Code (OBC) sets out specific requirements for egress windows. According to the OBC, every basement or cellar must have at least one egress window that meets certain size and accessibility standards. But what egress windows are required, exactly? The answer depends on several factors, including the size of the room, the number of occupants, and the location of the window. For example, if you have a basement bedroom, you will need an egress window that is large enough to allow for easy escape in case of an emergency.
Understanding Egress Window Requirements
So, what egress windows are required for your Ottawa home? To answer this question, we need to look at the specific requirements set out in the OBC. According to the code, an egress window must have a minimum net clear opening of 3.77 square feet, with a minimum height of 22 inches and a minimum width of 20 inches. The window must also be operable from the inside, without the use of tools, and have a sill height of no more than 44 inches above the floor.
In addition to these size and accessibility requirements, egress windows must also meet certain safety standards. For example, the window must be able to withstand certain loads and stresses, such as wind and snow, and must be designed to prevent accidental opening or closing. In Ottawa, where the winters can be harsh and snowy, it’s especially important to choose egress windows that are designed to withstand these conditions.
Choosing the Right Egress Windows
So, what egress windows are required for your Ottawa home? When it comes to choosing the right egress windows, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you need to ensure that the window meets the necessary size and accessibility requirements. You should also consider the safety features of the window, such as its ability to withstand loads and stresses, and its resistance to accidental opening or closing.
In Ottawa, where the soil can be dense and prone to waterlogging, it’s also important to choose egress windows that are designed to withstand these conditions. Look for windows with a high water-resistance rating, and consider installing a window well or other drainage system to prevent water from accumulating around the window.
Installing Egress Windows
Once you’ve chosen the right egress windows for your Ottawa home, it’s time to think about installation. Installing egress windows can be a complex process, requiring specialized tools and expertise. It’s recommended that you hire a professional contractor or window installer to do the job, as they will have the necessary experience and knowledge to ensure that the window is installed correctly and safely.
In Ottawa, where the building code requires that egress windows be installed in accordance with specific standards, it’s especially important to hire a contractor who is familiar with these regulations. A professional contractor will be able to ensure that the window is installed in compliance with the OBC, and that it meets all necessary safety and accessibility standards.
What Egress Windows Are Required: A Summary
So, what egress windows are required for your Ottawa home? In summary, the OBC requires that every basement or cellar have at least one egress window that meets certain size and accessibility standards. The window must have a minimum net clear opening of 3.77 square feet, with a minimum height of 22 inches and a minimum width of 20 inches. It must also be operable from the inside, without the use of tools, and have a sill height of no more than 44 inches above the floor.
When choosing egress windows for your Ottawa home, consider factors such as size, accessibility, safety features, and water resistance. And when it comes to installation, hire a professional contractor who is familiar with the OBC and has the necessary experience and expertise to ensure that the window is installed correctly and safely.
Conclusion
In conclusion, what egress windows are required for your Ottawa home depends on several factors, including the size of the room, the number of occupants, and the location of the window. By understanding the specific requirements set out in the OBC, and by choosing the right egress windows for your home, you can ensure that your basement or cellar is safe and accessible in case of an emergency. So, what egress windows are required? The answer is clear: egress windows that meet the necessary size, accessibility, and safety standards, and are installed in compliance with the OBC.
FAQs
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- Q: What is the minimum size requirement for an egress window in Ottawa?
- Q: Do I need to hire a professional contractor to install my egress windows?
- Q: What safety features should I look for when choosing egress windows for my Ottawa home?
- Q: Can I install egress windows myself, or do I need to hire a contractor?
A: The minimum net clear opening for an egress window in Ottawa is 3.77 square feet, with a minimum height of 22 inches and a minimum width of 20 inches.
A: Yes, it is recommended that you hire a professional contractor to install your egress windows, as they will have the necessary experience and expertise to ensure that the window is installed correctly and safely.
A: Look for windows with a high water-resistance rating, and consider installing a window well or other drainage system to prevent water from accumulating around the window. Also, choose windows that are designed to withstand loads and stresses, such as wind and snow.
A: While it is possible to install egress windows yourself, it is not recommended. Installing egress windows can be a complex process, requiring specialized tools and expertise. It’s best to hire a professional contractor who is familiar with the OBC and has the necessary experience and knowledge to ensure that the window is installed correctly and safely.