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Our basement windows, sometimes called hopper windows, are popular for small spaces like basement rooms and small bathrooms. They’re hinged at the bottom and open at the top for more air ventilation.
What do you call a small window in the basement?
Building codes in many areas require egress windows for home safety. Taking its name from the act of departure, an egress window provides an emergency way of leaving a dwelling. This guide reviews egress window requirements for basements and upper floors as well as the different types of egress windows.
What is a basement window well?
A window well is semi-circular excavation that surrounds a basement window. to prevent moisture damage to basement windows that are at or below grade. The window wells keep the soil away from openings in the foundation walls while still allowing proper grading and drainage away from the house; and.
What is a hopper window?
According to the Efficient Windows Collaborative, the hopper window definition includes windows with movable sashes that openinward. The hinge is on the bottom, and they make excellent windows for bathroom or basement installations. Since the windowpane tilts upward, it stops debris from blowing into your house.
What is casing window?
Casings are the moldings that go around the window frames. They are installed outside the house to seal the window frame to the house blocking cold air from entering the interior. Inside, casings are the finishing touch to a window installation, the same as baseboards and door moldings finish off a room.
Why are there windows in basements?
However, many basements are fully underground. That’s why there needs to be a basement window well together with the window. This window well supports the earth in the dig-out and prevents dirt from collapsing onto the window. It also allows the window to provide views and ventilation.
Do I need a basement window well?
Quick answer: If you have a basement window that is fully or partially below grade, you will need a window well to prevent leaking and help bring in light. If the basement window is in a habitable room, then you will need a window well and window that conforms to IRC Building Code emergency egress requirements.
Are basement windows necessary?
An egress window is typically mandatory in a finished basement. This means that you’ll need to have a window large enough to provide entry or exit in an emergency situation. Typically, you’ll be required to also have an egress well for the window, with an attached ladder or steps to get people out quickly and easily.
What is a pivot window?
A pivot window is essentially an ordinary casement window with another opening mechanism. Here, the casement – the movable part featuring the glazing – is not side-hung on hinges like a door. Instead, it pivots from the middle either vertically or horizontally from hinges mounted in the centre of the frame.
What are windows that open inward called?
Hopper windows open inward, into the house. While these units look nearly identical when they’re closed, the way they function often makes them ideal for very different places around the home.
What is a projected window?
A projected window is a window with its sash hinged across the top horizontal window frame.
What is a slider window?
Sliding windows are horizontal, with sashes that slide back and forth rather than up and down like more traditional windows. They are essentially double hung windows turned on their side.
What is French window?
A French window is a double-sashed window that can be opened both inwards and outwards instead of the sliding or folding movement used in other windows. It consists of two panels that are attached to the framework with hinges in the corner. The panels are fitted with handles that help the window to lock and unlock.
What is a vertical window?
What is a vertical sliding window? The double hung window style has two sashes that operate vertically for ventilation from either the top or bottom of the window unit. On a single hung window the top sash is fixed and the bottom sash operates vertically and tilts in for easy cleaning.
Why is a basement called a basement?
basement (n.) “lowest story of a building, wholly or partly underground,” 1730, from base (v.) + -ment.
What does egress mean for windows?
Egress windows are large openings that offer a secondary exit in case of an emergency. They can also add more natural light and make your basement feel more inviting. Basement bedrooms and living spaces are required to have egress windows. This mandate also involves unfinished basements.
What are daylight basement windows?
A daylight basement is a basement that has one or more full-sized windows but no door to the outside. The windows can be above ground level or in a window well. If possible, windows will be above ground, but when that is not feasible windows are placed below ground level and a well is dug out around that window.
Should I put rocks in my window well?
There isn’t really a minimum level of rocks in your window well, but the levels should be appropriate given the depth of it (and going deep is always better). However, the window well should definitely not be overfilled. This increases the risk of flooding and windows breakage.
How do I keep water out of my basement window wells?
Here’s what you can do to keep as much water away from your house as possible: Fix grading to make sure it slopes away from the foundation. Keep your gutters clear of debris and in good working condition. Extend downspouts away from the house to keep roof runoff from pouring next to the foundation.
Are window wells a good idea?
Basement windows and window wells are a good way to allow natural light into your home. Natural light will open up your space and take your basement from dark and dreary to bright and inviting. Window well materials come in a variety of beautiful stone and metal finishes, which can even add exterior charm to your home.
