What Are Window Well Covers?
If your home has a basement with partial or full below-ground windows, you may have window wells installed. Window wells help provide protection for these windows by creating a recessed space to allow light in and allow for the windows to open for ventilation.
Window well covers are designed to protect the window wells from having moisture from rainfall and snow collect and potentially cause flooding in your basement. They also are advantageous for shielding humans and pets from falling in and getting trapped. When shopping for window well covers, Lowe’s has the right choice for your window wells.
Do I Need Window Well Covers?
There are two main reasons for having window well covers, protection and security. A quality window cover will help ensure that your window well is no longer a collection spot for yard waste or trash. A cover that is intelligently designed for your well shape and is fitted correctly will help you avoid basement moisture problems and possible damage from heavy rains and snowfall.
The second advantage to having window well covers is security. The peace of mind the covers can bring from not having to worry about children or a family pet accidently falling into the well cannot be measured. They also are a deterrent against outside intruders. And if you need to use your basement windows as an escape route, window well covers can be removed with a lever release or a pin removal.
In some areas local building codes may require window covers to be installed. Always check your local building codes for any regulations about size and types of covers, as well as rules about window wells and egress.
What Is the Best Window Well Cover?
If you are considering adding window well covers to your home, there are three important concerns that you must take into account: the shape, the material and strength. Read below for information on each one to find which would be best for your project.
Window Well Shape
Window wells can come in a variety of shapes. Lowe’s has window well covers that can protect your space no matter what the size and shape.
Make sure that you measure each of your window wells before shopping for covers to ensure a proper fit.
Window Well Cover Materials
Plastic: Plastic window well covers are made from polyethylene and polycarbonate. They are normally clear to semi-transparent, to allow for light to filter through. Polycarbonate is the stronger of the two and can manage extreme weather better. Along with the differing well footprints, these covers can be flat or domed.
Metal: For more protection against falls from children and pets, a metal well cover is the choice. These grates are designed to let light in and keep unwanted visitors out. While adding security, they will allow moisture from rain and snowfall to collect in the well, so it is recommended that the drainage is up to the task. Metal grates are available in an adjustable form to fit most size wells. Metal cover are more expensive than plastic, but have a longer service life.
Window Well Strength
The strength of your window well cover is a key element. If you just need a simple cover to protect against pests and rainfall, then a plastic well cover should work well. To prevent falls from kids and animals, a stronger well cover of metal or thick plastic should be your selection. Some metal grates can support up to 400 pounds. Whatever kind you choose, making sure it fits properly will help with the success of your installation.