The Fundamental Problem with Window Wells – And How We Can Help

Window wells can be an excellent solution for allowing natural light into an otherwise gloomy basement, but they are not without their problems. While you may appreciate having the extra light while you are doing a load of laundry or working out in your makeshift gym, certain issues may make you wish that you could trade in your window wells for some artificial light for the basement instead.

If you have window wells in your home, you are no doubt familiar with how easily they can fill up the leaves, debris and even critters. Window wells can be tricky to clean because they require you to reach down below ground level causing frustration and often an achy back.

But there is a worse potential problem with window wells – and that’s water. Unlike the glass in an aquarium, windows are not designed to be completely leak-proof, so if your window wells are not draining properly, the result could be water leaking into your basement. This could end up damaging drywall, flooring and other items in your basement and it could even be the beginning of some pretty serious foundation problems.

Frequently, when people notice that water is entering their basement through the window wells, they have their windows replaced needlessly. The spend time and money only to become frustrated when they realize that replacing their windows hasn’t solved the problem. The actual problem had to do with the window well drainage system – or lack thereof.

Maintenance of window wells

Because of the potential problems with window wells, it is important that you inspect them regularly and clear them of any debris that accumulated in them. If you want to clean them less often, consider getting some window well bubbles from your local hardware store. These will help keep leaves and other debris from collecting inside the well.

If during the inspections of your window wells, you notice that they are not draining well after heavy rainfall or melting snow, your best option is to call in the experts at Conterra Foundation.

How we can help with window wells that aren’t draining properly.

Retrofitting window wells is a fairly straightforward procedure. It begins with excavating the wells right down to the weeping tile. A PVC drain will allow water to flow from the window well to the weeping tile rather than into your home. Liquid rubber is then used as a seal around the drain.

For severely leaking window wells, the Conterra team may also add an air-gap membrane for additional protection.

If you have noticed that water is not draining out of your window wells, getting it fixed as soon as possible is critical if you wish to avoid water damage in your home and potentially much more costly repairs. For an estimate in retrofitting your window wells with new drainage, contact Conterra Foundations today.