On a scale of 1-10, how clean are your window wells right now? Do you know off the top of your head, or would you have to go check? If it’s been a minute since you’ve paid attention to your window wells, you’re not alone. Most homeowners neglect their window wells until they’re forced to pay attention to them, and then there’s a lot of extra hassle. Instead, Windowell Expressions is here to help you establish a regular, easy routine for keeping your window wells clean.
Why should you keep your window wells clean? Well, you don’t exactly know when you’ll need to use them. In the event of a fire, intrusion, or other disasters, you may need to rapidly exit your home. You don’t want to wait until there’s an emergency to realize there is a mountain of trash and debris in your window well, or that a litter of kittens has set up shop in your rear window well. A messy, clogged window well can also create damage, leaks, and pest problems that could threaten the safety and security of your home.
So take our word for it and begin adopting these tips and tricks to keep your window wells clean.
1. Remove Debris.
Using a rake or grabber, regularly remove debris from your window well. Tumbleweeds and bush trimmings are common, as well as loose trash and kids’ toys. Once the largest debris has been removed, climb into the window well to pick up the small remaining debris that can’t be reached or grabbed with a rake.
2. Check Fit & Seal.
Your window well should fit snugly against the foundation of your house. Any gaps can introduce moisture and pests. Your window itself should be well sealed and free of cracks. This inspection should take place 1-2x a year at least to quickly identify damage. If you find any damage in the fit or seal of your window well, you may be able to repair it yourself with caulk or you can play it safe by calling our experts at Windowell Expressions for window well repairs.
3. Create Space.
If you have planted bushes or other plants near the opening of your window well, you’re likely to find more debris in that window well. Consider moving or trimming plants near the window wells, and mowing your lawn with care to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating in your window well. You may also experiment with stepping stones, pavers, or concrete near your window wells.
4. Cover.
The best way to keep your window well as clean as possible is to add a custom-fit window well cover to the opening of your window well. Even a grid metal grate will prevent most debris from falling in, or you can go for a bubble window well cover to eliminate anything from entering your window well. Covers also have the added benefit of making your window wells more safe from falls and injury.
Check up on your window wells regularly to keep your home beautiful and your loved ones safe.