Metal window wells are the premier choice for basement windows. They are praised for their robust safety features and ability to brighten subterranean spaces with natural light — transforming dark basements into welcoming environments.
If you’re new to the world of window wells, you might not realize the breadth of material options available. This guide delves into the various types of window wells, focusing on why metal is often the superior choice for homeowners.
What are window wells, and why do we need them?
A window well is a semi-circular excavation surrounding a basement window. Its primary function is to prevent soil from blocking the window, thus facilitating proper moisture drainage away from the home’s structure. More than functional, these wells are critical in ensuring compliance with safety regulations — particularly regarding egress windows.
Egress windows, which are larger openings designed as escape routes, are mandatory in most basement living spaces to provide a safe exit during emergencies. A well-placed window well is crucial for these windows to function effectively, ensuring they meet legal standards and are genuinely usable in a crisis.
Moreover, window wells play a pivotal role in enhancing the livability of below-ground rooms. By allowing natural light to infiltrate the basement, these wells reduce the reliance on artificial lighting, making these spaces brighter and more energy-efficient.
Each of these benefits underscores why installing the right window well is a valuable investment in enhancing your home’s functionality and comfort.
Common window well materials
When choosing materials for window wells, homeowners have several options, each with unique advantages and challenges.
Plastic
Plastic window wells are budget-friendly and easy to install, making them a popular choice. However, they lack durability and visual appeal, tending to degrade quickly.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass combines lightness with strength, offering diverse design options and longer-lasting use than plastic, though at a higher cost. It’s ideal for those looking for style without the weight of traditional window well materials.
Concrete
Durable and stable concrete window wells are ideal for those seeking longevity. They are heavier, harder to install and more expensive than other materials, but their durability offers a lasting solution.
Wood
Increasingly popular for its natural look and warmth, wood can be a durable choice if treated to resist rot and water damage. However, it requires ongoing maintenance to preserve its beauty and functionality.
Metal
The most popular material for window wells is corrugated steel, known for its durability and weather-resistant properties. Metal wells are not only tough but also versatile, fitting into a variety of architectural styles. They are easy to install and maintain, making them a top choice for new constructions and renovations.
Each window well material brings something different to the table — whether it’s the affordability of plastic, the lightweight durability of fiberglass, the robustness of concrete, the natural charm of wood, or the unmatched resilience of metal. As we delve deeper, we’ll explore why metal, in particular, often outshines its counterparts in both functionality and cost-effectiveness.
7 benefits of metal window wells
Metal window wells top the list as the most common choice among various materials available, and for good reasons:
1. Price and accessibility
Metal window wells stand out for their affordability and accessibility. Available in various shapes and sizes, they are readily found at local home improvement stores, eliminating long wait times for custom builds. You can easily purchase a metal well suitable for your project without delay.
2. Weatherproof
Metal excels in weather resistance. It effortlessly sheds snow and rain, and even extreme heat and intense sunlight have little effect on its integrity, making it a reliable choice regardless of the climate.
3. Durability
Constructed from materials like galvanized steel or corrugated metal, metal window wells are built to last. They often remain functional for at least 30 years, withstanding environmental stresses without needing replacement.
4. Stability in temperature fluctuations
Unlike other materials that swell in the heat and shrink in the cold, metal maintains its shape and size across temperature changes. This stability prevents structural damage to the surrounding soil and window wells, enhancing longevity.
5. Easy installation
Metal wells are notably easy to install compared to timber and concrete. They come pre-formed to fit existing holes, allowing for straightforward insertion and simple backfilling. Installation requires basic tools to secure the well to the foundation.
6. Superior water resistance
Metal is less likely to leak compared to other window well materials, which is crucial for preventing basement flooding. Its excellent water resistance ensures moisture stays outside, safeguarding your basement against water damage.
7. Aesthetic flexibility
Though metal wells may lack visual appeal in their raw form, they are easily enhanced with decorative liners. These liners are available in a variety of designs, allowing customization to fit personal tastes and improve the basement view, transforming a plain metal well into an attractive feature.
With these compelling advantages, metal window wells not only fulfill functional needs but also offer versatility and long-term reliability, making them a top choice for homeowners looking to enhance their basement’s safety and aesthetics.
Windowell Expressions enhances your home’s aesthetics and safety
While metal window wells offer undeniable benefits, their industrial appearance might not always align with your home’s aesthetic. That’s where Windowell Expressions steps in to bridge the gap between functionality and style.
We provide an extensive range of high-quality window well liners, available in various shapes, sizes, and designs, ensuring that every homeowner finds the perfect match for their specific needs. Our offerings don’t stop at liners; we also provide decorative foundation liners and adjustable window well grates, enhancing your home’s safety and appearance.
We excel in crafting window well covers from UV-treated Lexan polycarbonate, reinforced with lightweight aluminum for extra durability. These covers boast a robust 250-pound weight capacity and feature frames that resist rust, ensuring longevity and maintenance ease.
At Windowell Expressions, customization is key. We are dedicated to tailoring our well covers and liners to meet your unique requirements, though we also have a selection of standard sizes ready to go.
Whether updating your existing window wells or embarking on a new installation, we’re your go-to resource. Our products improve the functionality and safety of your home and enhance its visual appeal.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to Windowell Expressions today to explore our full suite of solutions and take a significant step towards safeguarding and beautifying your residence with our expertly designed window well accessories.
