Tools and Materials
Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.
Know Before You Shop for Your Window Well
There are two kinds of below-ground window wells: Models that allow sunlight through small- or medium-sized windows are usually mounted high at the top of the basement wall. Oversized “egress” wells have windows large enough to use as an emergency escape.
Measure the Window Well for a Cover
Measure the width of the window well at both the front and back, where it touches the house. Note the widest width. Then measure from the side of the house to the outside edge of the window well in at least two places.
Note the shape of the window well. Most are either rounded, have square (or nearly square) corners or form a U shape with gently rounded corners. Also, check to see if the back edge of the cover needs to slip into the window opening in the foundation and below the siding.
Do Window Well Covers Need to be Attached?
Yes, window well covers need to be attached to the wall of the house and to the sides of the window well. Plastic window well covers usually feature pre-drilled holes to make it easier to secure the cover. Many basement window covers also include clips to attach the cover to the well.
Is it Good to Cover Window Wells?
Yes, it's a good idea to cover window wells for a variety of reasons. Covering your window wells can help keep rain, snow and debris from collecting in the well. Built-up moisture could lead to leaks and deterioration of your window frame. Basement window covers also help keep children and animals from falling into the well. They allow natural light into your basement and help insulate your windows, and can help keep intruders — human and animal — out of your home.
If you’re concerned that small children may fall on and through a lightweight window well cover, choose a model capable of supporting more than 100 pounds.
Should You Cover Window Wells in Winter?
Yes, if you get rain and snow in the winter, it's a good idea to cover your window wells with plastic window well covers. Uncovered window wells can fill with snow and cause leaks and mold, which can lead to foundation damage. Without window well covers, basement window wells may be camouflaged beneath the snow, and that can lead to dangerous falls and entrapment for people and pets alike. Window well covers can also improve heat retention and lower your heating costs if you're losing a lot of heat from your windows.
The shape of some window well covers helps keep them from bending, so make any cuts as small as possible. We trimmed only the back flange by drilling 1/4-inch holes at the corners of the notches and using a hacksaw so it slides into the window recess.
How to Install Your Window Well Cover
Follow these five steps to install a window well cover.
