You may need to replace your window well if your basement floods unexpectedly, but what are other telling signs that may signal the need for this home improvement project?
It is best to take care of a window well replacement before it causes expensive damage to your home, as investing in a watertight, properly draining system is much more affordable than flood damage repair.
Learn to recognize the signs it is time to replace your window well, and know what to expect.
Signs Your Well Is Aging
Look at the fixture from the outside — you may see many signs of wear and tear, such as bumps, scrapes and rust. These are a real negative if you are trying to sell your home – curb appeal is key.
A beat-up liner does not automatically spell disaster, but if you also notice signs of moisture leaking into your basement, this might be the deciding factor in favor of the replacement. Even if you do not spot any condensation or moisture, signs of mold growth around or beneath the basement window can signal that the product has stopped functioning properly.
Digging Up the Current Window Well
Replacing a window well might seem straightforward, but actually carrying out the project is time-consuming and requires skill and knowhow. Without these, you might end up with a flood. It is best to hire a professional, who will start with excavating the soil around the current window well and detaching the well from the home’s cement foundation.
Reworking the Drain System
The professionals need to inspect the drainage system you have in place. If it is not functioning correctly, they may have to keep digging in order to install a new drainpipe that either enters the home’s foundation and connects to the sump pump, or drains out and away from the foundation. Once this is complete, a layer of gravel about four inches deep is spread over the top of the drain, forming the base where the new product will sit.
Installing a New Window Well
After cleaning and smoothing the foundation wall if necessary with mortar or paint, the team will fit the new well in place and securely fasten it to the foundation with a masonry drill and pegs. Another layer of gravel should be added to the bottom, then the previously excavated soil placed back around the edges of the new fixture, providing support and completing the project.
Contact Windowell Expressions with all of your window well concerns, and receive a free estimate for professional, efficient and correct installation.
