Tag Archives: window well maintenance
Managing Snow in Window Wells: Essential Winter Tips!
While window wells are important for basement ventilation and emergency egress, they are also vulnerable to snow accumulation and ice formation. This can lead to blocked exits, water infiltration, and even damage to your home’s foundation. Maintaining your window well during the cold season is not just about convenience — it’s about safety and protecting your investment!
This month, we’re uncovering what to do when you find snow in window wells, along with the best preventative measures to avoid build-up. Here’s how to get snow out of window wells, keeping them clear and functional all winter long!
Common Issues from Snow in Window Wells
Window wells are designed to allow natural light and ventilation into finished basements, but during winter, they can become traps for snow. As flakes accumulate, they may block the window well, preventing light from entering and potentially obstructing emergency exits. This accumulation also exerts pressure on the egress window, leading to cracks or other structural issues.
Water Infiltration and Foundation Damage
The most significant risk associated with snow in window wells is water infiltration. As temperatures fluctuate, snow melts and refreezes, creating ice dams that prevent proper drainage.
Water then seeps into the basement, causing damage to walls, flooring, and personal belongings. Over time, repeated water infiltration can compromise the integrity of the foundation, leading to costly repairs.
Emergency Egress During Extreme Weather
Window wells serve as key emergency exits in case of fire or other emergencies. During extreme weather conditions (e.g., heavy snowstorms), blockage from snow in window wells might hinder escape routes, posing a serious safety risk.
As a homeowner, it’s essential that your window well remains clear of snow and ice to maintain a safe, accessible egress path.
How to Keep Snow Out of Window Wells
Here are some effective strategies to ensure your window wells remain snow-free throughout the winter!
Install Window Well Covers for Winter
One of the best ways to prevent snow from accumulating in window wells is by installing a window well snow cover. There are two main types: removable and permanent.
Removable covers are ideal for homeowners who want flexibility. They can be easily taken off during warmer months and reinstalled before winter. Permanent covers, on the other hand, provide year-round protection. These models are often more durable, making them suitable for regions with heavy snowfall — especially here in the Northeast.
When selecting window well covers, consider choosing options with materials that can withstand harsh winter conditions, such as polycarbonate or reinforced plastic. These materials are not only durable but also allow light to penetrate, maintaining natural illumination in your basement.
Check for Proper Drainage
Drainage is crucial in preventing water from accumulating in window wells, which can easily lead to leaks and foundation damage. A well-designed drainage system ensures that any melting snow is efficiently directed away from your home.
Start by regularly inspecting and cleaning your drainage system to be sure it is free of debris; you might also choose to install a gravel base to facilitate water flow and prevent clogging.
Another option is to incorporate drainage pipes or channels that lead water away from your foundation. Note that these systems must be properly sloped for effective water movement!
Upgrade Your Window Well Design
Improving the overall design of your window well will further minimize snow entry. For example, you might opt for built-in snow guards to deflect snow from getting inside the well space. It’s also a good idea to make certain that your window well is appropriately sized and positioned to reduce exposure to snow drifts; if you’re unsure about this, the Egress Solutions team is happy to help with an inspection!
Insulation is an option, as well. To prevent ice formation, you could apply weather-resistant sealants around the edges of the window well for added protection.
How to Clear Snow From Window Wells
When clearing snow in window wells, personal safety should always be the top priority! Snow removal can be physically demanding and potentially hazardous, so it’s important to take several precautions.
First, be mindful of your physical limits and avoid overexertion. Take breaks as needed and remember to stay hydrated. We recommend wearing insulated gloves, sturdy boots with good traction, and a warm hat. Consider using safety goggles to protect your eyes from snow glare and debris, as well.
Next, make sure you’re using the right tools and equipment; this makes snow removal more efficient and helps prevent damage to your window wells and surrounding structures.
Use a snow shovel with a plastic blade to avoid scratching or damaging the window well. For larger areas, a snow blower can be effective — but always exercise caution to avoid hitting the window well edges!
Another tip: be gentle when removing snow near the window well to prevent damaging either the well or the window itself.
Step-by-Step Guide for Removing Snow in Window Wells
1. Assessing Snow Accumulation: Before even starting, evaluate the amount of snow and plan your approach. This will help you determine the best tools and techniques to use.
2. Removal Techniques: Remove any snow from the top and work your way down. Use a sweeping motion to clear snow away from the window well, ensuring you don’t pile it against the house.
3. Checking for Hidden Snow or Ice: After the initial clearing, inspect the area for any hidden snow or ice that may have been missed. Pay special attention to corners and edges where snow can accumulate!
Post-Clearing Maintenance
Once the snow is fully cleared, it’s important to perform some maintenance checks to be certain everything is in good condition. Look for any signs of damage (i.e. cracks or rust) and address them promptly to prevent further issues.
Check that your drainage systems are clear and functioning properly to prevent water buildup. If you use window well covers, make sure they are securely in place and adjust them as needed to provide optimal protection.
Professional Assistance for Snow in Window Wells
While many homeowners can manage basic snow removal and maintenance of window wells, there are times when professional help is necessary to address more complex issues. Knowing when to call in the experts can save you time and money — and prevent further damage to your home at the same time!
– Persistent Water Infiltration: If you notice water consistently seeping into your basement despite your best efforts, it may indicate a more serious underlying issue. This could be due to improper grading, clogged drainage systems, or cracks in the foundation itself.
– Structural Damage: Visible signs of damage — such as cracks in the window well walls, rust, or warping — are clear signs that professional repair is needed. These issues can compromise the integrity of the window well and lead to bigger problems if not addressed ASAP.
– Ineffective Drainage: If your drainage system is not effectively channeling water away from the window well, it may require professional evaluation and repair. This could involve regrading the area, installing new drainage pipes, or repairing existing systems.
– Frequent Ice Formation: Persistent ice buildup in and around the window well can indicate insulation or design issues that need professional attention.
Who to Contact
When faced with water infiltration or other window well problems, it’s important to contact the right professionals for your specific situation.
– Waterproofing Specialists: These experts can assess and address issues related to water infiltration, ensuring your basement remains dry and protected. They can provide solutions such as sealing cracks, installing sump pumps, or improving drainage systems.
– Foundation Repair Contractors: If structural damage is present, a foundation repair specialist will evaluate the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate repairs to restore the integrity of your window wells and foundation.
– Landscaping and Drainage Experts: For issues related to grading and drainage, a landscaping professional with experience in drainage solutions can help regrade the area around your window wells.
– Egress Installers: Professional installers are experienced in all manner of egress systems, including window well care. An experienced team like the one here at Egress Solutions can manage everything from replacements to new installations, ensuring compliance with all local safety standards.
Winterize Your Window Wells with Egress Solutions
For homeowners seeking peace of mind and professional expertise, Egress Solutions is here to help! Our installers specialize in comprehensive window well services, from installation to maintenance and repair. We use only high-quality materials and proven techniques to deliver results that stand up to the harshest conditions.
Don’t wait for icy problems to pile up — take proactive steps now to protect your investment and guarantee the safety of your family. Contact Egress Solutions for a free quote today!
The Ins and Outs of Window Well Maintenance
Basement egress window wells let a lot of good things in — fresh air, natural light, and (if necessary) lifesaving emergency personnel. However, if improperly installed or maintained, a window well could let in things you’d rather keep out.
The most undesirable of these guests? H2O. While water damage represents a threat to any basement, it can be especially detrimental to finished basements. Without proper basement window well drainage, water can pool up and seep into the home, ruining property and weakening your foundation.
However, even if a window well drainage system is set up correctly, debris can create blockages and inhibit its ability to perform. The wet weather conditions of winter and spring place additional responsibility on homeowners to keep up with window well maintenance, ensuring their basements stay warm and dry.
About basement window well drainage
A well-installed window well is an asset, not a liability. However, its proper function is contingent on both the installer (set-up) and the homeowner (maintenance).
Waterproofing window wells begins with ensuring a proper drainage system is in place. There are two basic configurations to make note of.
Exterior drains
Exterior basement window well drains connect to an existing weeping tile system (aka French drains or drain tiles). Despite the name, modern weeping tile systems are not composed of tiles at all — but rather plastic piping (the term is based on the terracotta that was originally used).
A trench is dug underground around the perimeter of the home, angled away from the foundation. In this trench sits the weeping “tile” — plastic piping dotted with tiny perforations to allow groundwater to “weep” into it from above. That water is whisked away through the pipe to the nearest storm sewer (or another community-approved drainage point).
Interior drains
Interior basement window well drains similarly — except that they connect to weeping tile installed along the inside perimeter of the home, in a trench under the basement floor. Excess water is directed to a sump pump, a device that discharges it away from the property to a predetermined drainage area.
Don’t forget the window well cover!
A sturdy polycarbonate egress window well cover will deflect most moisture and debris away from the well and make the work of window well maintenance so much easier. For optimum results, pair with a quality window well grate, which allows for ventilation while the cover is open without sacrificing safety and security.
The Importance of Proper Window Well Gravel Depth
When it comes to ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of your basement window wells, one of the most crucial aspects to consider is the gravel depth within them. Gravel plays a significant role in drainage and preventing water from pooling, which can lead to a host of issues, including water damage to your home’s foundation and basement.
Gravel serves as a permeable layer that allows water to drain away from your window wells. Without adequate gravel, water can accumulate and exert pressure against the windows and walls, potentially leading to leaks and structural damage. Moreover, improper gravel depth can result in the growth of mold and mildew due to damp conditions, which can affect indoor air quality and pose health risks.
Tips for Maintaining Proper Gravel Depth
The recommended depth of gravel in a window well should be at least 4 to 6 inches. This depth allows for sufficient drainage while also providing a stable base to support the weight of the window well cover if one is installed. It’s essential to use clean, crushed stone or gravel that is free of fines or dust, as these can clog the drainage system over time. You’ll also want to follow the following tips:
– Check Depth Regularly: Over time, gravel can settle or become displaced. It’s a good idea to check the depth of your window well gravel annually and add more if necessary.
– Keep It Clean: Remove any debris, leaves, or other materials that may have accumulated in the window well. These can block water flow and reduce the effectiveness of the gravel layer.
– Consider a Drain: In areas with heavy rainfall or snowmelt, consider installing a drain at the bottom of the window well that leads to a sump pump or away from the house to further improve drainage.
– Level the Gravel: Ensure that the gravel is evenly distributed across the bottom of the window well. This helps prevent water from pooling in low spots.
– Inspect for Erosion: If you notice signs of erosion around the window well, it may be necessary to add a retaining structure or additional gravel to prevent further soil displacement.
By maintaining the correct gravel depth in your window wells, you can protect your home from water damage, extend the life of your window wells, and ensure that they continue to function as intended. Regular maintenance and attention to detail will go a long way in preserving the integrity of your basement windows and the overall health of your home.
How to clean window wells
Shovel away snow and ice
If your climate makes a habit of snow and ice, you should make clearance part of your winter window well maintenance routine. Heavy accumulations can overwhelm and clog window well drains, and may even inhibit your ability to escape your basement in the event of an emergency.
Even if you do have a window well cover (and you absolutely should), it’s a good idea to clear away snow and ice — not only for ease of exit but to allow that surely needed natural light through.
Remove leaves and debris
If enough leaves or debris do make it into your window well, they can form clogs and compromise proper egress window drainage. Depending on how significant the buildup is, you can remove it by hand or with a shop vacuum.
Clean or replace gravel
Over time, gravel can get gummed up as well. Usually, it is enough to shovel the gravel out of the well and rinse it off before reusing it. However, it can be replaced entirely.
Consider roof drainage
Inadequate roof drainage can impact basement window well drainage. Overflowing gutters and downspouts can quickly saturate the surrounding soil and overwhelm the system.
Recaulk liners
Window well liners will naturally start to separate from a home’s foundation over time, creating a gap where moisture can breach. If you’re up for some DIY window well maintenance, wipe away any dirt or mud from the area, and once dry, apply caulk to seal the window well anew.
Window well covers from Egress Solutions
Window well maintenance is important — but if you’ve been paying attention, there is a simple remedy to most egress window drainage and waterproofing headaches. Egress Solutions offers dependable egress window well covers from Boman Kemp and Rockwell to contractors and homeowners in New Jersey, Central and Eastern Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and Eastern New York. Get in touch with us and save your energy for a different rainy-day activity.