Why do old houses have window wells?

Since the basement is underground, a window well is created to make space for the window. Window wells are notorious for letting in water, gathering leaves and snow, and being a falling hazard from the outside. The key to preserving windows in older homes is to keep up with the maintenance.

Do old window wells have drains?

Even decades ago, when builders installed window wells, they usually took care to deal with underground water. “Typically window wells have a drain that is connected to the foundation drainage system or drains to daylight somewhere in the yard,” Dennison said.

Does my house need window wells?

Depending on local building code, particularly if the basement has a bedroom or is used as a rental unit, a window well may be required outside an egress window. An egress window is a window large enough to be used as an emergency alternate entrance/exit.

How can I improve my window wells?

You can use stone pavers, brick, or more naturally-shaped rocks. Plant ivy or another clinging plant on the wall of an egress window well. Once it has all grown over, you’ll have some greenery to look out on!

How do you keep water out of window wells?

Here’s what you can do to keep as much water away from your house as possible:

Fix grading to make sure it slopes away from the foundation.
Keep your gutters clear of debris and in good working condition.
Extend downspouts away from the house to keep roof runoff from pouring next to the foundation.

How do you keep water out of egress window wells?

Do window wells keep water out?

Even brand new windows won’t stop the water from coming in. Window wells were originally designed to solve this problem, but they do the exact opposite when they are left uncovered. Leaves, dirt, and other debris prevent water from the ground, rainfall, or melting snow from draining.

Does every basement window need a window well?

A window can also be an unlikely but crucial exit. Windows with a base at or below ground level require wells, which is why they’re typically associated with the basement. Then again, “daylight” basements have floors that are flush with the earth and don’t require wells.

How can I hide my window wells?

Plant deciduous shrubs around the perimeter of the window well, spaced at least 12 inches away from the sides of the well. These can hide the window well while allowing necessary light filter in through the window. Choose medium-sized varieties that do not grow too quickly or become so tall that light is blocked.

What do you need to know about window wells?

Let’s start with the basics. A window well is a U-shaped, ribbed metal or plastic product available in most home hardware stores. It’s designed to fit around basement windows, providing a space between the window and the surrounding earth to allow light into sub-grade structures.

Is it possible to replace an old window well?

When possible we recommend removing and replacing old window wells. If you or your water proofing contractor determine that this can not be done, it is possible to extend your current window well by purchasing a similar sized unit to wrap around the older unit to increase the height.

Why do I need a window well in my basement?

If your home has a basement, you’re almost guaranteed to have a window well. Window wells are designed to let natural light into the basement. While a quick day-time load of laundry is made easier by window-well lighting, there may be times you wish you didn’t have window wells at all.

How to find the best window wells at Menards?

Window Wells Window Wells(20) Sort By: Best Match Best Match Price Low to High Price High to Low Title (A-Z) Title (Z-A) Brand Name (A-Z) Brand Name (Z-A) Top Seller Filter & Sort Sort By: Best Match Best Match Price Low to High Price High to Low Title (A-Z) Title (Z-A) Brand Name (A-Z) Brand Name (Z-A)

What are window wells and what do they do?

A window well is a U-shaped, ribbed metal or plastic product available in most home hardware stores. It’s designed to fit around basement windows, providing a space between the window and the surrounding earth to allow light into sub-grade structures. In some cases, window wells also provide an emergency point of egress.

Do you have window wells in your basement?

If your home features a basement with windows at, or just below, ground level, chances are you also have window wells. These semi-circular cut-outs surround your windows, allowing light into the basement. But, like any home system, window wells require maintenance and professional implementation.

What should I put on my Window well?

Homeowners interested in preventative maintenance should consider a window well cover. While various types are available (mesh, plastic bubble covers, grill-type, etc.), their purpose remains simple; prevent debris from entering the window well by providing a physical barrier between the well and the elements.

How big does a window well have to be?

But, how do they work? When installing a window well, the first step is to excavate the earth surrounding the window. Usually, this hole is dug to a depth of around 1 foot beneath the bottom of the window sill. Before the window well itself is installed, it’s important to consider drainage.