When proper drainage isn’t possible, water can quickly and easily find its way into your basement and other areas of your home. Leaking window wells can cause several issues, which can lead to even more serious problems. To avoid issues like mold and mildew or damage to the walls and foundation of your home that will leave you spending thousands of dollars in repairs, it is important first to figure out the cause and source of your leak.
Find out more below about why your window wells could be leaking.
Reasons Why Window Wells Leak
If you find a leak in your home, you must find the source and cause for your leak as soon as possible.
Unsatisfactory Grading — If the ground surrounding your home does not slope away from your foundation, you can almost always count on leaks in your future. Whichever way your yard slopes, the water will follow. If it’s toward your house, rain, snowmelt, or sprinkle water will find its way into your wells.
Clogged Drain — Over time, and without regular upkeep, uncovered window wells can collect leaves, dirt, garbage, and other debris that can compromise proper drainage. Moreover, critters, insects, and other small animals, such as rodents or birds, love to make window wells their home. Because there isn’t much traffic or disturbance, it’s a perfect place to build clog-causes nests.
Old Windows — While windows, in general, are not designed to be waterproof (even new windows can leak), old, rusty, or rotted windows have an especially hard time keeping water out.
How to Stop the Leaks
Once you have determined the source of the leak, it’s imperative to address it as soon as possible. The sooner you handle the issue, the less it will cost to repair.
Grade Your Yard — To avoid major issues that can affect your foundation and window wells, make sure your yard is graded correctly. Make sure your home is located on the highest point on your property, with the surrounding ground sloping away from the base of your home. The downhill slope will direct water away from your home to avoid collecting water near its base.
Clean Wells Regularly — Regular maintenance is essential for functioning window wells. Make sure to clear away leaves, twigs, weeds, nests, webs, and anything else that is out of place. Keeping your wells clean will help eliminate clogs that can lead to leaks. Learn more about how to clean your window wells here.
Cover Wells — To help keep debris, snow, rain, and other water out of your window wells, consider placing covers or grates on them. Additional benefits include increasing your home’s security and keeping your children and animals safe from falls.
Contact Windowell Expressions
Protect your beloved investment, your home, with functioning window wells from Windowell Expressions. We provide the highest quality products that your home needs, like window wells, covers, and liners that come in a wide range of styles and designs. Hide the ugly on your home by contacting Windowell Expressions today.
