Your egress window well cover is your basement’s line of defence. It provides the required escape route during emergencies, protecting your basement from water intrusion, improving air circulation, and allowing natural light to brighten up lower living spaces.
That’s why routine window well maintenance preserves function and prolongs their lifespan — saving you from costly repairs or safety concerns.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most effective maintenance practices for your egress window well cover, basement window well ladder, and the surrounding structure, so your home stays in top condition.
Clean out debris regularly
The simplest and most important maintenance step is keeping your window wells clear of debris. Leaves, twigs, mulch, and other organic materials collect in window wells throughout the year, especially in fall, spring, or after storms.
Over time, the buildup traps moisture, invites pests, or clogs your drainage system. When that happens, water accumulates and seeps into your basement — leading to mildew, wall damage, or rot.
Clear out your wells at least once a month. Use your hands or a garden trowel to remove leaves, trash, and other debris. After major storms, check that your egress window well cover hasn’t shifted and that no snow or branches have collapsed into the space.
Evaluate your drainage
A functioning drain at the bottom of the window well prevents water from pooling and causing structural damage. Poor drainage is one of the most common causes of basement flooding. If your window well doesn’t have a drain or it’s blocked, water will pool at the bottom, pressuring the window seals and surrounding foundation.
Pour a few gallons of water into the well to test your drainage system and watch how quickly it disappears. If the water remains longer than a few minutes, you likely have a blockage or improperly sloped drainpipe. You may need to flush out the pipe or replace compacted or dirty gravel.
If there are serious drainage problems, contact a waterproofing professional to reroute or reinforce the system.
Check your egress window well covers
Covers serve a dual purpose: keeping out moisture and debris while allowing light into your basement. Clear covers help maintain brightness. Over time, they can crack, warp, or become cloudy due to UV exposure and weather fluctuations. If your cover doesn’t sit flush anymore or looks discolored, it may need to be cleaned, adjusted, or replaced.
Wipe your cover with mild soap and water every few months to prevent dirt and grime buildup. Inspect it for visible damage like cracking or separation at the edges. A cover that doesn’t lift easily from inside may also pose a safety risk during emergencies.
If you’re noticing signs of wear, consider upgrading to a more durable clear egress window well cover that’s custom-fit to your well.
Inspect the basement window well ladder
The ladder inside your well ensures that you or your loved ones can safely climb out during emergencies. If your basement window well ladder is loose, rusting, or bent, it may fail when needed most. Egress wells deeper than 44 inches need ladders to meet safety codes, so inspect them regularly for compliance.
Look closely at the ladder’s connection points to ensure it’s securely mounted to the well wall. Check for corrosion on the rungs or supports. If the ladder shifts when you pull on it or if the surface feels slick from mud or moisture, clean and tighten it immediately. Replacing an old or worn-out ladder now may prevent bigger problems later.
Monitor for signs of pest activity
Window wells often attract insects, rodents, and other pests. The enclosed, shaded environment is a perfect nesting spot when there is water and organic matter present. Common signs of infestation include chewed insulation, burrow holes, droppings, or disturbed gravel.
Clear the area and take preventive measures if you notice any of these signs. This could involve trimming back overgrown vegetation, sealing gaps in the window frame, and making sure your egress window well cover fits tightly to block entry. Avoid placing mulch or compost near the window well, and keep the surrounding area clean.
Examine the well walls and liner
If you have a decorative liner or exposed concrete walls, check them regularly for signs of wear. Cracks, fading, or separation from the foundation could indicate a need for repair or replacement. A well-maintained liner improves aesthetics and helps manage moisture levels and air quality.
Look for any discoloration or flaking on the liner’s surface. If the liner appears to be pulling away from the wall or bubbling in certain areas, these could be signs of water damage or poor installation. High-quality liners made of polyurethane tend to last longer and require less frequent attention.
Even the best materials need occasional cleaning and inspection to remain effective.
Clear snow and ice in winter
During snowy Utah winters, your window wells become especially vulnerable. Snow accumulation and ice buildup block light, prevent emergency exits, and put added stress on the egress window well cover and ladder. Leaving snow to pile up also increases the risk of flooding when it melts.
After each snowstorm, gently sweep snow off the cover using a soft broom or plastic shovel. Avoid rock salt or harsh de-icers, which may corrode metal parts or damage clear plastic surfaces. If ice forms along the well walls or ladder, remove it carefully without chipping at the material.
Know when to upgrade or replace
Not every part of your window well system will last forever. If your cover consistently slips, your ladder feels unstable, or water isn’t draining properly, it might be time to upgrade. Investing in a new custom egress window well cover or a reinforced basement window well ladder pays off in terms of safety and reduced long-term maintenance.
Evaluate whether your current setup meets local code requirements and fits the specific needs of your home. If not, custom solutions can address size inconsistencies, extreme weather concerns, or aging materials that no longer serve their purpose.
Stay consistent with your maintenance routine
A little bit of routine attention goes a long way. Set reminders each season to inspect, clean, and evaluate your egress system. It’s easy to overlook the window wells until something goes wrong — but staying proactive prevents headaches later.
Whether you’ve lived in your home for years or recently installed new features, make window well maintenance part of your home care checklist to keep your system reliable and up to code.
Get expert support from Windowell Expressions
Maintaining your window wells doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Windowell Expressions, we offer durable, custom-built solutions to protect your basement and enhance your home’s appearance. Whether you need a new egress window well cover, a secure basement window well ladder, or advice on long-term window well maintenance, we’re here to help.Our team specializes in clear, code-compliant, attractive upgrades that withstand the elements. Contact us today for a quote or to explore your options for safe, smart improvements.
