It is not uncommon for homeowners and contractors alike to question whether or not they will need a permit before installing new replacement windows.
If you’re getting ready to install replacement windows in Livermore, CA, you might be wondering if you need to obtain a permit or not. Window installation doesn’t necessarily seem like the most involved project in the world, so you might think a permit is unnecessary.
Do I need to obtain permits to install replacement windows?
The answer depends on the size of the project, as well as where you live. The general rule is that if you are replacing more than one window in your home, then you will probably have to get a permit because this would be considered a structural change.
In cases like this, it’s important that you are aware of any building codes and zoning laws in the area that might affect what type of work can be done on your house. It may also be necessary to contact an architect or engineer before starting any construction projects related to the installation of new windows.
However, in many cases, yes. If you plan on replacing all of your windows with new ones, then you will probably need a permit. This is because the installation process could alter the inside and outside dimensions of your home.
In Livermore, CA, homeowners who are putting new windows in their houses do need to get a permit, though. They should also take the time to educate themselves on why they need to get a permit in the first place.
Here are the 5 reasons why homeowners require to obtain permits prior to installing replacement windows.
Reason#1. To make sure rooms get enough light and ventilation
If you’re installing windows inhabitable areas inside your home, there are some light and ventilation requirements that must be met. The permit that you obtain in order to install replacement windows will ensure that these requirements are met once your new windows go into place.
Reason#2. To make sure windows in bedrooms meet safety requirements
If a bedroom inside of your home doesn’t have a door leading out to the exterior of your property in it, it needs to have at least one window. That window needs to have an opening width of at least 20 inches as well as an opening height of at least 24 inches. This is to protect you in the event of a fire in your home. People need to be able to get out of a window in a bedroom if that’s their only exit from the home.
Reason#3. To make sure certain windows have safety glazing on them
When you’re installing windows in your home, there’s a chance they may need to have either tempered or laminated glass in them for safety reasons. While this isn’t usually the case for most residential windows, it’s still something a window installer will need to keep in mind just in case you’re going to have windows installed in certain areas.
Reason#4. To make sure windows are positioned properly on walls
It’s important for window installers to choose the right place to put a window. If the wall width between windows and doors in a room is off. And it could affect the lateral load resistance of the wall and cause problems. A permit will ensure that this particular aspect of Livermore, CA window installation doesn’t go unnoticed.
Reason#5. To make sure windows meet California energy requirements
The state of California has Title 24 energy compliance requirements in place that window installers must keep in mind whenever they’re putting new windows into a home. These requirements are designed to make homes as energy efficient as possible.
Are you still confused over why you need a permit to install new Livermore, CA windows? Or are you wondering how you can go about getting a permit for window installation? When you trust R & M Quality Windows & Doors to do window installation for you, you won’t have to spend a single second worrying about any of this. We’ll obtain permits for your window installation and make sure your windows are up to code when they’re installed. Contact us at (510) 796-0100 today or visit us at 5588 Central Ave. #A, Newark, CA 94560 to get started.