Your Guide to the Best Types of Basement Windows for Your Home

The right windows can make or break a room, and that includes your home’s basement. In fact, because your basement gets all of its natural light and fresh air from the windows instead of other rooms, the windows you select for that space are very important.

It's a good thing there are lots of different types of basement windows to pick from, but it can be tough to know which windows are right for your Knoxville home. Read on to discover different types of basement windows, their benefits, and what you should look for in a new window installation.

Why have windows in the basement?

Basement windows can be fantastic additions to any house. They let in natural light, can be opened for some fresh air, and – most importantly – allow you to use your basement for things beyond storage.

According to the International Building Code, every basement, habitable space, or sleeping room needs to have at least one “operable emergency escape and rescue opening.” In other words, if you want to use your basement for something other than as a place to keep your washer and dryer, it needs an egress window.

Say you want to transform your basement into a spare bedroom for guests or a growing teenager. That basement needs a window just in case of an emergency like a fire. Alternatively, maybe you want to turn your basement into a den for games and family activities. A window is a good addition not just for safety but also for the space’s look and feel; no one wants to play board games in a room that feels like a cramped underground cavern, after all.

Popular types of basement windows

Luckily, there are many types of basement windows you can choose from to renovate this space. Here are a few different options to consider.

Awning or hopper windows

Awning windows, also called hopper windows, are great choices for basement renovation projects. These versatile windows are designed to open either from the top or the bottom, so you can let in a breeze when you want, and they can potentially operate as egress windows in the event of a fire or other emergency.

Awning or hopper windows are also very secure. Depending on where they’re installed, they could be perfectly angled to let in ample sunlight in the morning or evening, warming up any basement space and making it feel more welcoming and comfortable to occupants.

Sliding basement windows

Sliding basement windows can also be good picks. With a sliding window or two, you can open up the space to let in fresh air and the smells of the outdoors. Sliding doors are also naturally great egress options since they’re easy to operate quickly if needed.

Single-hung or double-hung windows

Single-hung and double-hung windows are good choices for similar reasons. Single-hung windows open from only the bottom, while double-hung windows can open from either the top or bottom. In both cases, they make it easy for you to let air and light into an underground basement space. Adding secure locks to single or double-hung windows is often quick and simple, giving you peace of mind after installation.

Architectural shapes

If you already have at least one egress window for your basement, you can get creative with others. For example, architectural-shaped windows might make a basement feel much more expansive and match other windows in your Knoxville property, even if they don’t open.

Architectural-shaped windows come in a variety of different styles and shapes, so they’re excellent options for basement walls that are narrow, short, or otherwise tough to match with a window of another type.

Egress basement window requirements

Though basement windows come in a variety of different styles, sizes, and types, any given window needs to meet certain requirements to count as an egress window. According to the International Building Code, egress windows must meet the following size requirements:

• Opening width of at least 20”
• Opening height of at least 24”
• A net clear opening of 5.7 ft.² or more if the window is above ground level
• A net clear opening of 5.0 ft.² or more if the window is at ground level or lower
• A maximum window sill height of 44”

So long as your chosen basement windows meet these dimensions, they’ll satisfy the International Building Code’s requirements. Plus, they’ll be large enough to brighten up the space and open wide enough to let in a refreshing breeze if your basement feels a little stuffy.

If your basement windows are energy efficient, that’s even better. Energy-efficient basement windows are better able to regulate the temperature of basement rooms no matter the season, keeping them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. On top of that, energy-efficient basement windows could help you net a few tax savings at the end of the year.

Basement window installation

Regardless of which basement windows you choose for your property, you’ll need them to be installed properly. Local licensed contractors are the perfect people to contact for new basement window installation, maintenance, and more. Knowledgeable contractors will make sure your windows fit size requirements and qualify as egress windows for a basement, plus can make recommendations based on your property’s style, your budget, and other factors.

At Window World's Knoxville showroom, we have plenty of different types of basement windows for you to check out. Whether you want to ask questions, get window recommendations, or schedule an installation, it's the best place to start – contact us today to learn more or request a free quote online!