How to Measure Egress Retaining Wall Dimensions

The International Residential Code requires that habitable spaces in homes, such as finished basements, have escape windows in case of an emergency. Called egress windows, these features need the soil dug up around them so the window can open and also to give you enough space to get out. This below-grade opening is often bordered by a metal covering called a window well, but you can also build a retaining wall. You must, however, follow the code requirements when choosing the wall's dimensions.

Tape measure
Pencil
Pebble
Ladder

Instructions

- 1
  Extend a tape measure across the window frame. Find the center point in the measurement. Extend the tape measure out 18 inches to the side starting from the center point and make a mark on the house with a pencil. Repeat for the other side. This 3-foot line is the minimum width for any retaining wall you build.
- 2
  Place the tape measure at one of the marks you made and extend the tape measure 36 inches straight out perpendicular to the house. Mark the point with a pebble. Repeat for the other mark on the house and place another pebble in the yard.
- 3
  Open the egress window. Ensure that it opens and closes easily with the 3 by 3 foot square, which is the minimum space allowed for a window well, according to the International Code.
- 4
  Determine the depth of your retaining wall. You must place a ladder in the opening between the window and the wall if the depth is greater than 44 inches, as required by the Code.
- 5
  Measure 6 inches from the front of the 3-by-3 foot square you've marked out. Keep in mind that the ladder may not extend any further into the window well than this distance.
- 6
  Measure from the top of any projected retaining wall to any protruding deck or structure above it. The distance may not be greater than 36 inches, according to the Code.

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