Window low to the floor

[Jon Errickson]

What do you say about a window that's only about 1' off the floor? This is not a bedroom, but it is a room on the second story of the house. The family does have young kids. I was going to recommend an additional lock so the window can only be open so far. Do you recommend anything?

[Wayne Carlisle]

The code requires the window to be a minimum of 24" off the floor when the exterior grade is more than 72".

[chris mcintyre]

The window should be tempered (not required) for safety reasons. I have seen people put a rail/bar across widows close to the floor which will help as long as it doesn't interfere with egress requirements.

[Fisherman Bob]

The code requires the window to be a minimum of 24" off the floor when the exterior grade is more than 72".
Hi Wayne,

Which code is that?

[Jerry Peck]

The code requires the window to be a minimum of 24" off the floor when the exterior grade is more than 72".


Incorrect as stated.

Finish stating the code requirements and you will be correct ... but as stated, you are incorrect. ;)

[Jerry Peck]

Hi Wayne,

Which code is that?

Wayne MEANT to say this, but did not finish the thinking process to do so:
- R613.2 Window sills. In dwelling units, where the opening of an operable window is located more than 72 inches (1829 mm) above the finished grade or surface below, the lowest part of the clear opening of the window shall be a minimum of 24 inches (610 mm) above the finished floor of the room in which the window is located. Glazing between the floor and 24 inches (610 mm) shall be fixed or have openings through which a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere cannot pass.
- - Exceptions:

- - - 1. Windows whose openings will not allow a 4-inch-diameter (102 mm) sphere to pass through the opening when the opening is in its largest opened position.
- - - 2. Openings that are provided with window guards that comply with ASTM F 2006 or F 2090.

As you can see, that is A LOT different than just saying "The code requires the window to be a minimum of 24" off the floor when the exterior grade is more than 72"."

[Wayne Carlisle]

Well...I was in the ballpark........:o

[Wayne Carlisle]

Here's a pic