Table of Contents
How do you install a window well?
How to Install a Window Well Check Your Backfill. Test the Positioning. Remove the Window Well and Measure. Dig the Hole. Insert the Window Well and Confirm Measurements. Check That It’s Level. Screw Anchors Into the Wall. Add a Gasket or Sealant.
Do window wells need drains?
Window Well Drain – Every window well should have a drain to allow water to exit the window well and not build to a level that creates a basement seepage problem. Drains can be connected to interior or exterior drain tile or can be run to daylight where a proper slope exists.
Can I dig my own window well?
Dig the Hole The hole needs to be five inches deeper and six inches wider than the original window well dimensions you recorded. Have a container, like a tarp or a wheelbarrow, nearby so you can place the dirt inside as you dig and then easily transport it from the hole when you’re done.
Should I put rocks in my window well?
There isn’t really a minimum level of rocks in your window well, but the levels should be appropriate given the depth of it (and going deep is always better). However, the window well should definitely not be overfilled. This increases the risk of flooding and windows breakage.
What is a window well liner?
Decorative window well liners are a great alternative to looking out your basement window at a galvanized window well. Window well inserts are the easiest way to transform your basement windows from plain, boring metal to an attractive vista of your choosing!.
Should window wells be covered?
At Window Well Experts, we recommend that all window wells be fitted with a proper cover. When you look at the benefits of window wells, almost all of them require a sturdy, leak-proof cover in order to achieve their fullest benefit.
What do you put in the bottom of a window well?
The bottom of the well should contain loose gravel, which also helps with drainage. This should not be allowed to become too compacted or it will also cause water to collect in the well. You can either replace gravel periodically or remove it and clean it before putting it back in place.
How do you keep water out of window wells?
The easiest way to keep your window well drain unclogged is by installing a quality window well cover. It will prevent excessive water, debris and even small animals from getting into your window well and causing problems.
Do I need basement window wells?
Quick answer: If you have a basement window that is fully or partially below grade, you will need a window well to prevent leaking and help bring in light. If the basement window is in a habitable room, then you will need a window well and window that conforms to IRC Building Code emergency egress requirements.
Why do window wells fill up with water?
Weeds, leaves, dirt, and other debris clog window wells, causing them to fill with water. The water then leaks through the window and into the basement.
How much does it cost to put in a window well?
Depending on your needs and choices, a good window well installation can run around $500 – $1000, give or take. This will cover the materials used, the need for regrading the project (should this be necessary), and the connection of the well to your foundation’s drainage system.
How deep should the gravel be in a window well?
Drainage & Backfill Procedures Use pea gravel or ¾ inch or smaller free-draining rock, around the well stopping approximately 1 foot down from the top of the window well.
How long does it take to install a window well?
The average lead time to replace a window well is 1-2 weeks and the work itself takes 1-2 days. We have found that time is of the essence when people need window well replacements need so we have devised a way to help you expedite the process without sacrificing quality or efficiency.
What size window well do I need?
To meet egress window requirements, the window well should be 64 inches wide by 36 inches in projection and between 3 to 5 feet deep (based on how far above/below grade the window will sit). For aesthetic purposes, it’s best to center the egress window in the window well.
Should I put pea gravel in my window wells?
Do not pour the pea gravel into the window well since it could break the basement window.
What should be in a window well?
Window well covers should be constructed from sturdy, high-quality material, such as plastic or metal. A window well cover that is made from metal (typically, aluminum or steel) is referred to as a grate and is implemented to protect against intrusion.
Can you grow plants in a window well?
My favorite partial shade annuals are viola, coleus, begonias, polka-dot plant, perilla, and fuchsia! These little plants will thrive in your window wells. If you want to make those window wells look even better you should consider these egress window wells.
