I am currently looking at a home in Ontario that has glass block windows in the basement foundation walls, four in total. There are no other windows in the basement that can be opened, nor is there a door leading to the exterior. Is this acceptable, or is it a breach of the building code. I am thinking of fire safety. Thanks
Ed,
As long as the lentils are in place over the windows, I don't see a problem. The glass blocks have a good fire rating and they are remarkably strong. If the basement is being used as a "nanny's suite" there should be an operable window thay get escape through.
Hope this helps,
Andrew
Andrew is correct. The glass blocks provide a secure solution while still letting light in. If there is a bedroom in the basement then there has to be a secondary escape exit which is typically achieved by modifiying an existing window to meet the OBC and local bylaws.
Regards,
Kingsway Construction Inc.
Glenn Rosborough
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