Illinois Egress Window Requirements: A Homeowner’s 2026 Compliance Guide
Egress windows offer alternative exit routes. Window Concepts offers new window installments and upgrades for multiple types of windows. Here is more information about egress window requirements and how to comply as an Illinois homeowner:
Purpose and Location of Exit Windows
Windows or doors allow you to escape from a fire in your home if the main entrance is blocked by smoke or flames, which makes it harder to see and navigate the space. An egress window leads to the outside of the home. These are required to be in operable condition and cannot be blocked by furniture, air conditioners, or other appliances.
The National Fire Prevention Association requires that these windows be located in bedrooms or living areas. If there is a fire that starts in your home, it may be hard to leave your bedroom safely; the flames block escape through the front door or living areas. Having exit windows in your bedroom offers a convenient method of escape, as it makes it easier to exit the space if a fire starts in the night.
Having a window or sliding door offers an alternative means of emergency exit if you are in this space when the fire starts, and the hallways to the bedroom or doorway are blocked. This allows you to leave the home more quickly, reducing the chances of being trapped in the space during an emergency situation. Exiting the building quickly also lowers the amount of smoke inhalation. Window Concepts is able to install patio doors and offer egress window installation; these windows are available in different styles.
The International Residential Code also requires that basements, attics, and rooms with sleeping lofts have exit windows. These provide a means of escape if the stairway is blocked in an emergency. If there are multiple sleeping areas in a basement, each room should have an exit window.
Types of Windows and Openings
Exit windows are required to open to the outside. To function as an emergency escape option, they should be within 20 feet of the ground or be accessible to a fire department rescue apparatus. The International Residential Code states that an emergency exit or escape opening should lead into a public way, or that it opens into your yard or court with access to the public way. When choosing a type of window to act as an emergency exit, choose an appropriate style that allows you to easily pass through to the outside. These styles can include
- Double-hung windows: Double-hung windows provide multiple means of opening. These utilize two vertically sliding sashes that are able to open independently. You are able to open the top or bottom sash; you can also open both of them at the same time to create additional room.
- Sliding windows: These window panels open horizontally and move along a track. This design offers wide openings. Sliding windows are also meant to move easily, allowing you to exit the space more quickly.
- Casement windows: This style of window is hinged on the side and opens like a door. A casement window swings open to the outside. Crank-out casement windows utilize a crank to open.
The National Fire Protection Association states that fires are able to become deadly in two minutes. This makes leaving the space as quickly as possible a high priority. The IRC requires that windows should be able to open from the inside without the use of additional keys, tools, or special knowledge. You can have bars or covers over the windows, but make sure that they are operable from the inside and do not require additional keys.
Benefits of Different Styles
When upgrading or installing a new window, work with the installer to discuss designs and hardware options. Sliding windows use fewer moving parts and are low maintenance; this promotes the chances of them working correctly in an emergency. Double hung windows provide increased insulation, allowing them to adapt to different seasonal changes. Casement windows offer a tighter seal. Window Concepts offers customized designs and provides a gallery of project photos on our website for you to browse.
Dimensions of Windows
Follow the International Residential Code for minimum size requirements for emergency exit windows. These window dimensions allow people to safely fit through the window and provide enough space for firefighters to enter in full gear. This allows firefighters to enter the home more easily to rescue you and other residents if needed. When placing windows in a bedroom, make sure emergency windows are not on the same wall as a bedroom door; having space between two means of escape reduces the likelihood of both of them being blocked.
The windows should have a net clear opening of at least 5.7 feet and a minimum opening height of 24 inches. The National Fire Protection Association gives a minimum width of 20 inches; this means that the window should be at least 3.33 feet wide. The bottom of the opening should be no larger than 44 inches above the floor. This allows for people of different heights to step over the windowsill, preventing them from having to find something to stand on. This saves time in an emergency situation.
To see if your windows have adequate space, measure their height, width, and sill height. The opening area can be calculated by multiplying height and width. When installing new windows, you are able to work with a contractor to make sure the new windows fit the size requirements. During the process, Window Concepts will visit your home and take precise measurements.
Replacement of Windows
Over time, older windows may develop issues such as broken crank mechanisms, warping, or sticking sliding tracks. Other issues include the window not staying open, which often makes it difficult to evacuate multiple people from a building. Replacing older windows offers greater safety in an emergency situation, as it allows you to safely open the egress windows. This reduces the chances of being trapped in the house or firefighters being unable to reach you.
When replacing preexisting emergency and escape openings in buildings that fulfill the requirements of the International Residential Code, you are not required to have the minimum measurements. This is on the condition that the contractor utilizes the largest standard size window that fits the existing frame and that the replacement does not occur because of a change in occupancy. The replacement window can be of the same style as the previous window.
During the replacement process, the team will work to safely remove the old windows to protect the surrounding structure of the building. They will then perform level installation; they seal the windows to stop air and water from entering. Replacing the window helps improve window longevity and thermal performance.
Install Egress Windows Today
Being compliant with building and safety codes surrounding egress windows allows you to be prepared for emergencies. We provide energy-efficient windows with advanced glass technology and durable construction; this helps keep your home at comfortable temperatures. Free consultations are available to discuss your needs. Other styles we provide include bay, tilt and turn, and hopper windows. Specialty window options are also available to increase natural light in the home and add customized shapes. To receive a free quote, Window Concepts invites you to call us today.