Making basement windows larger

Is this even an option? Right now the windows are so small that we wouldn't be able to get out in an emergency. Our basement is finished and we would like to make it a playroom, but I am not comfortable with the kids playing down there alot if there is no way to get out if there is an emergency and the stairs are blocked.

If this is at all possible, does anyone know about how much it would cost-it would be two windows)

also, does anyone have any recommendations for someone that does this type of work?

Thanks!

Re: Making basement windows larger

i could imagine this being very costly because it's the foundation of your house that you would be "toying" with.

sorry i can't offer any help / suggestions.

Re: Making basement windows larger

You can do it but you will probably need a window well like this
http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.mar-flex.com/residential/images/bwwa/WindowWellsAcc_hdr.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.mar-flex.com/residential/window_well_accessories.php&usg=__tVgA5ATOWiM2NUGJ5YGr04Zw4KM=&h=313&w=362&sz=28&hl=en&start=9&sig2=nplsW4p2pocveJmD0Hi5TQ&um=1&tbnid=ssXqAZdVf1mxyM:&tbnh=105&tbnw=121&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dwindow%2Bwell%2Bpics%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DX%26um%3D1&ei=GVM8StWVCJKDmAerpMCyDg

Re: Making basement windows larger

We had to do this as part of making our basement legal. We had one window that they made bigger and installed the emergency well window. Ours doesn't have a ladder, just a few steps. Also, we only had to do one window, not both of ours. I am not sure what the law is on that.

I am not sure of the coast as it was part of some other work we were doing down there. We are using a general contractor type guy.

But I urge you do it, esp. if your children will be playing down there.

Message edited 6/20/2009 8:50:07 PM.