Hargrave Contractors

10/21/2026

10/21/2026

**Another Basement Transformed by Hargrave Contractors!**

Take a look at the before-and-after photos of this recent egress window installation!

What was once a small basement window has been transformed into a full-size, code-compliant egress window, bringing in significantly more natural sunlight while providing a safe emergency exit.

At Hargrave Contractors, we specialize in professional basement egress window installations, handling the entire process from excavation and foundation cutting to window well installation, proper drainage, and interior and exterior finishing.

✅ Code-compliant emergency escape opening
✅ Increased natural light and ventilation
✅ Professional excavation and foundation modifications
✅ Proper window well drainage
✅ Clean, professional interior and exterior finishes
✅ Permit assistance and inspections

Whether you're finishing your basement, adding a bedroom, or simply looking to make your home safer and more functional, our team can help.

**Hargrave Contractors – Egress Window Specialists**

Proudly serving New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland.

📞 856-290-8800

*Making Homes Safer for Generations to Come.*

10/15/2026

🏡 **SMALL WINDOW. BIG TRANSFORMATION. LIFE-SAVING UPGRADE.**

What started as a small basement window is now a full-size emergency escape and rescue opening — bringing more natural light, improved safety, and peace of mind to this homeowner.

Take a look at this before-and-after transformation! 👀

Our team at **Hargrave Contractors Egress Window ** handled the project from start to finish, including:

✅ Enlarging the existing foundation opening
✅ Installing a full-size egress window
✅ Installing a window well with emergency escape ladder
✅ Completing the interior trim and finishing work
✅ Restoring the exterior while working around existing landscaping

One of the biggest misconceptions about egress windows is that installing one means tearing apart your finished basement or destroying your yard.

**Our goal is simple: Make your home safer while treating it like our own.**

Whether you're finishing your basement, creating additional living space, or simply looking to improve your family's safety, we're here to help.

📞 **Hargrave Contractors Egress Window**
🌐 www.hargravecontractors.com

**Making Homes Safer for Generations to Come.**

10/15/2026

(MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT FINISHED EXTERIOR PHOTOS)

🏡 *SMALL WINDOW. BIG TRANSFORMATION. LIFE-SAVING UPGRADE.*

What started as a small basement window is now a full-size emergency escape and rescue opening — bringing more natural light, improved safety, and peace of mind to this homeowner.

Take a look at this before-and-after transformation! 👀

Our team at *Hargrave Contractors Egress Windows* handled the project from start to finish, including:

✅ Enlarging the existing foundation opening
✅ Installing a full-size egress window
✅ Installing a window well with emergency escape ladder
✅ Completing the interior trim and finishing work
✅ Restoring the exterior while working around existing landscaping

One of the biggest misconceptions about egress windows is that installing one means tearing apart your finished basement or destroying your yard.

*Our goal is simple: Make your home safer while treating it like our own.*

Whether you're finishing your basement, creating additional living space, or simply looking to improve your family's safety, we're here to help.

📞 *Hargrave Contractors Windows*
🌐 www.hargravecontractors.com

*Making Homes Safer for Generations to Come.*

10/13/2026

Client called us was having trouble getting through inspections and having a proper egress window installed we were able to correct all the framing and supports as well as get him a fully functioning, egress window in a day

09/24/2026

Start of a walk up basement and the underpinning detail

03/14/2026

Don't let the stairs be your only option-

The basement is often a neglected part of the house, but it is an essential space that can serve many purposes, such as storage, recreation, and living. However, it's crucial to ensure that the basement is a safe living space, especially in the event of an emergency. Having only one means of egress from the basement, such as stairs to the first floor, can be dangerous and even deadly. This is why a second means of egress is so important.

A second means of egress is a backup exit route that is accessible in case the primary exit route is blocked or otherwise inaccessible. In the case of a basement, a second means of egress could be an egress window or door that opens directly to the outside. This provides a safe and easily accessible exit in the event of an emergency, such as a fire.

Stairs leading from the basement to the first floor can be dangerous if they are blocked by steps or other obstructions. For example, if a fire breaks out in the basement, the stairs may quickly become blocked by smoke, making it impossible for occupants to escape through the primary exit route. This is where a second means of egress comes in. An egress window or door can provide an alternate and accessible escape route.

Aside from providing a safe escape route, a second means of egress in the basement can also increase the value of your property. It can add natural light and ventilation to the basement, making it a more comfortable and livable space. Additionally, it can serve as an entrance or exit for deliveries or other activities.

It's important to note that having a second means of egress in the basement is required by most building codes. Failure to comply with these codes can result in fines or even legal action. Ensuring that your basement meets these codes can also make it easier to sell your home or obtain financing for renovations.

In conclusion, having only one means of egress from the basement can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening. A second means of egress, such as an egress window or door, is essential for providing a safe and accessible exit route in case of an emergency. Additionally, it can increase the value of your property and make your basement a more comfortable and livable space. Be sure to check your local building codes to ensure that your basement meets the necessary requirements for a second means of egress.

10/22/2025

Egress in a day, for this project we trimmed the interior for a finished look.

02/17/2025

New Jersey Egress Window Code & Requirements: Everything You Need to Know
Why Egress Windows Matter in New Jersey
Egress windows are a crucial safety feature in any basement, providing an emergency exit in case of fire or other emergencies. In New Jersey, strict building codes regulate egress window requirements to ensure homes comply with International Residential Code (IRC) Section R310. If you are finishing your basement or creating a legal bedroom, understanding NJ egress window codes is essential.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

✔️ New Jersey egress window size requirements
✔️ Window well regulations
✔️ Basement bedroom egress rules
✔️ Permit requirements for basement egress windows in NJ
✔️ Common mistakes and how to avoid them

New Jersey Egress Window Code Requirements
In New Jersey, egress windows must meet specific size and placement requirements to provide a safe escape route. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Egress Window Size Requirements (NJ Code R310.2.1)
The minimum size for an egress window in New Jersey is:

✅ Minimum net clear opening: 5.7 square feet (or 5.0 sq. ft. for ground-level windows)
✅ Minimum opening height: 24 inches
✅ Minimum opening width: 20 inches
✅ Maximum sill height from the floor: 44 inches

💡 Important: A window must meet both the height and width minimums and provide a full 5.7 sq. ft. opening to qualify as an egress window. Simply meeting one or two of these dimensions is not enough!

2. Window Well Requirements (NJ Code R310.2.3)
If your egress window is below ground level, a window well is required. Window wells in New Jersey must meet these criteria:

✔️ Minimum horizontal area: 9 square feet
✔️ Minimum projection from foundation: 36 inches
✔️ Ladder or steps required if the depth exceeds 44 inches
✔️ Drainage system recommended to prevent flooding

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re installing an egress window well, consider adding a cover or grate to keep out debris, rain, and animals while still allowing emergency escape.

3. Basement Bedroom Egress Requirements
Thinking of adding a legal bedroom in your basement? New Jersey law requires at least one egress window per sleeping area.

🏡 A legal basement bedroom must have:
✔️ Minimum ceiling height: 7 feet
✔️ At least one means of egress (a window or exterior door)
✔️ Permanent heating source (space heaters don’t count)

Failure to meet egress code could result in failed inspections, fines, or even insurance issues in the event of an emergency.

4. Do You Need a Permit for an Egress Window in NJ?
Yes! Installing an egress window in New Jersey requires a building permit from your local township. The process typically includes:

1️⃣ Submitting plans showing window placement, dimensions, and well design
2️⃣ Inspection of structural modifications to ensure compliance
3️⃣ Final approval after installation to confirm safety standards are met

📌 Permit Costs: Fees vary by township but generally range from $90–$300.

💡 Need help with permits? At Hargrave Contractors, we handle the entire permit application process for you!

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Mistake #1: Installing a window that doesn’t meet the 5.7 sq. ft. opening
🚫 Mistake #2: Placing the window well too close to the foundation, limiting escape space
🚫 Mistake #3: Not checking for underground utilities before excavation
🚫 Mistake #4: Failing to install proper drainage, leading to basement flooding

At Hargrave Contractors, we’ve installed over 1,000+ egress window systems in New Jersey and ensure every project is up to code!

Why Choose Hargrave Contractors for Your NJ Egress Window Installation?
🔹 Fully licensed & insured egress window specialists
🔹 Permits & inspections handled—we take care of the paperwork!
🔹 High-quality, code-compliant installations
🔹 Competitive pricing & financing options available

📞 Get a Free Quote Today!

👉 Call us at 856-290-8800 or fill out our online form at www.hargravecontractors.com

Final Thoughts
Installing an egress window is more than just a home improvement—it's a safety requirement in New Jersey. By ensuring your basement meets NJ egress code standards, you’re not only protecting your family but also increasing the value of your home.

Ready to upgrade your basement with a code-compliant egress window? Hargrave Contractors has you covered!

📩 Contact us today!