Consider the opportunities that arise when you transform your basement into a chic and profitable apartment. Not every homeowner is proficient in installing basement window wells. This is the reason why some homeowners decide to hire an expert to install it. On the other hand, those who prefer do-it-yourself projects may install window wells if they have the appropriate equipment and a useful guide. 

This blog will walk you through the thrilling process of utilizing vacant space, raising the value of your house, and taking advantage of the expanding real estate market—whether it’s for your kids or to enhance the profitability of your property. These instructions for basement window wells will assist hands-on homeowners in adding this lovely and useful feature to their houses.

Why Do Window Wells Need To Be Built?

The following are the main purposes for which window wells are built:

Natural Light

Basement rooms that would normally require artificial lighting can receive sunshine thanks to window wells.

Avoid Harm From Moisture

When windows are positioned at or below grade, window wells shield the windows from water damage. They permit appropriate drainage and grading away from the home while preventing dirt from building up in foundation wall holes.

Emergency Exit

There must be emergency escape places in at least two locations if the windows serve residential spaces. Because of these wooden window wells, windows can be utilized by residents as an escape route and as a point of entry for emergency personnel to access the home. Professional construction is required for these wells since improper construction might lead to more serious issues down the road. 

Materials For Window Wells

Although several materials may be used to make window wells, three materials are now quite popular: concrete, plastic, and metal.

Metal

The most common type of steel used to make metal window wells is galvanized steel, which resists rust and corrosion. Steel is a durable material that can withstand a lot of use for many years, but this window well material can rust if the corrosion-resistant coating becomes scratched or nicked.

Plastic

Plastic comes in a variety of eye-catching hues and is a material that won’t rust or corrode with time, making it an excellent choice for window wells. However, when exposed to the heat and UV rays of the sun, some forms of plastic can deform over time. When selecting the window’s material, bear this in mind. When selecting the material for window wells in areas that receive direct sunshine for a significant portion of the day, bear this in mind.

Concrete

Window wells made of precast concrete are robust, long-lasting, and immune to corrosion of any kind and solar damage. Furthermore, window wells made of concrete may be aesthetically pleasingly created by stamping them with distinctive designs. However, installation can be challenging since concrete window wells are sometimes quite heavy.

The Dimensions Of Your Window Wells

You will need a window well if your basement window opens outward for it to open correctly. Since the well has room, some homeowners add potted plants or garden accents to the landing for aesthetic appeal. Some just cover the plastic or mud landing with pebbles or gravel. Custom brick or stone window wells allow for the addition of concrete to the floor.

As a homeowner, your safety concerns and the size of your window will determine how big your wooden window wells should be. You might want to think about getting a window and window well that are simpler to reach in case of an emergency if you or a family member is elderly or disabled. You should take extra measures by installing a step stool, or a small ladder, or by extending your window so that it is closer to the ground and simpler to get out of if you think you could have trouble climbing through windows.

Benefits of Wooden Window Wells

Make sure a product will be worthwhile before investing money in it. You want it to function well and last over time. If your windows have wells, you’ve probably pondered why getting a cover for them is a good idea.

Prevent Window Damage

Window wells are a crucial component of walk-out window areas and basements because they offer an additional line of defense against flying branches and debris during inclement weather or high winds. Window wells can assist avoid floods caused by loose soil and debris obstructing drainage systems, in addition to preventing damage to window glass. For window wells to work correctly, they must be installed with about 6 inches of space above ground level to allow the cover to rest firmly on the window sill and sides. This offers long-lasting stability and the best defense against branches being carried by winds. Making use of window wells is a prudent choice that will improve any house.

Place For Indoor Plants

Window wells allow homeowners to put potted plants where they can receive sunshine, which is a great way to bring nature into the house. They enhance window wells that could otherwise go unnoticed with vivid color and texture. It’s simple to regulate soil temperature and moisture using window wells, which contributes to creating the ideal growing environment for houseplants. Furthermore, window wells let in plenty of ventilation so that plants may benefit from natural light while offering protection from wind, strong sunshine, and heavy rain. Because window wells enable water to naturally drain away, they let homeowners enhance their window spaces without losing air quality or running the danger of mold growth.

Increased Airflow

Getting a basement or other enclosed subterranean room well-ventilated can be difficult. You may introduce some fresh air into a stuffy basement by adding windows and window wells. Basement windows, which are your basement’s entry to the outside world, may prevent your space from feeling cramped if they are installed properly and kept clean regularly.

Structural Security

To stop water leaks, window well covers keep dirt and water out of your window wells and away from your windows. This maintains the structural integrity of the walls and foundation of your house. A wide selection of transparent, UV-resistant window well coverings are available that won’t obstruct the flow of natural light.

Conclusion

Water damage may be quite expensive, therefore averting it before it happens is essential. Inadequate installation might result in flooding of the window well. Your window well could not be flood-proof due to inadequate drainage, contaminated gravel layer, or improper window well size.