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Egress Windows in Calgary: Code, Cost & Install Guide

Basement Renovations

Egress Windows: Non-Negotiable for Legal Bedrooms

If you’re building a bedroom in your Calgary basement, you need an egress window. Not optional. It’s code, it saves lives in fires, and it’s the #1 thing inspectors check.

Alberta Building Code Requirements

Per Alberta Building Code (Section 9.9.10):

  • Every bedroom must have at least one egress window (or door to exterior)
  • Minimum opening: 0.35 m² (3.77 sq ft)
  • No dimension less than: 380 mm (15 inches)
  • The window must open without tools or keys
  • Sill height maximum 1.5 m (59″) from floor
  • Window well (if below grade) must be 550 mm (22″) clear from window to wall
  • Window well deeper than 1.5m requires a permanent ladder or steps

Secondary Suite Requirements (Calgary)

Legal secondary suites have additional rules. Each bedroom needs egress, but the suite also needs a separate exit path, interconnected smoke alarms, and fire separation from the main dwelling. See our legal suite guide.

Cost Breakdown in Calgary

Component Cost
Window unit (casement or slider) $600 – $1,400
Concrete cutting (foundation) $1,200 – $2,500
Excavation & window well install $1,500 – $3,000
Framing, drywall, interior trim $500 – $1,200
Permit & inspection $150 – $400
Total per window $4,500 – $8,500

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⚠ Estimate Disclaimer: These are only ROUGH estimates that can vary wildly. Do not take these numbers as gospel. Having a defined scope of work and exact selections will give you clarity.

The Install Process (Step by Step)

  1. Pull development permit from City of Calgary
  2. Mark location (away from gas lines, electrical, plumbing)
  3. Call Alberta One-Call to locate utilities
  4. Excavate from outside down to below the sill height
  5. Cut through concrete foundation wall (concrete saw)
  6. Frame the opening and install window
  7. Install window well (galvanized steel or stone/concrete)
  8. Add drainage (gravel bed, connection to weeping tile or sump)
  9. Backfill, waterproof, trim interior, inspection

Common Window Well Options

  • Galvanized steel semi-circle: $150-$400 (cheapest, utilitarian)
  • Stacked stone or block: $800-$2,500 (custom look)
  • Composite (plastic): $300-$600 (durable, easy)
  • Poured concrete: $1,500-$4,000 (premium, permanent)

Drainage: Don’t Skip This

Window wells collect water. Without drainage, you’ll flood the basement. Install 3-4 feet of gravel in the well bottom, connected to the weeping tile system. A well cover reduces water entry and keeps debris and rodents out.

DIY vs Pro

Cutting a concrete foundation wall isn’t a DIY job. You need structural consideration (the cut location can weaken the wall), proper concrete saws, excavation equipment, and permit/inspection compliance. Hire a licensed contractor.

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Pillar Guide: Basement Renovations Calgary: The Complete Guide

Planning your renovation? Start with our complete Calgary renovation guide.

Contact Olympic City Renovations for a free consultation.

Olympic City Renovations serves Calgary, Priddis, Okotoks, and surrounding communities.