​How to Prep Your Window Well for Winter: A Step-by-Step Guide

As winter approaches, it’s time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. One area that often gets overlooked is your window well. A well-maintained window well can protect your basement from flooding, prevent structural damage, and keep your home energy-efficient during winter. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your window wells are ready to withstand the season.

1. Clear Out Debris

Over the fall, leaves, dirt, and other debris can accumulate in your window well, obstructing proper drainage. Start by cleaning the well to remove anything that could trap moisture or cause blockages.

Tip: Wear gloves to protect your hands and use a small rake or shovel for efficient cleanup. A shop vacuum is excellent for removing finer debris.

2. Install or Inspect Window Well Covers

A sturdy window well cover is your first line of defense against snow, ice, and debris during winter. If you already have covers installed, check for cracks or gaps that could let moisture in.

Tip: Opt for clear polycarbonate covers that are durable and allow natural light into your basement. Ensure they fit snugly to prevent snowmelt from entering.

3. Add Gravel to Improve Drainage

Over time, the gravel at the bottom of your window well can compact or wash away, reducing its effectiveness. Fresh gravel enhances drainage and prevents standing water.

How-To: Add a 2-3 inch layer of clean, coarse gravel to the bottom of the well for optimal drainage.

4. Seal Basement Windows

Inspect the basement window itself for any cracks, gaps, or worn seals. Cold air and moisture can enter through these vulnerabilities, increasing energy bills and the risk of water damage.

Action: Use weather stripping or silicone caulk to seal any gaps around the window frame.

5. Check for Proper Grading Around the Well

Ensure the ground surrounding your window well slopes away from your house. Poor grading can lead to water pooling near the foundation and seeping into your window well.

6. Trim Nearby Plants and Shrubs

Overhanging branches or shrubs can drop leaves, snow, and debris into your window well. Trim any plants near the area to keep it clean and unobstructed.

Reminder: Keep at least 12 inches of clearance around the well for easier maintenance.

7. Monitor During Winter

Even with the best preparation, heavy snowfalls or ice buildup can still pose risks. Check your window wells periodically throughout the winter to ensure they remain free of snow and ice.

Quick Tip: Use a broom (not a shovel) to gently remove snow from the covers to avoid damaging them.

By following these steps, you can protect your basement and home from the challenges winter brings. A little effort now can save you time, money, and stress later. For high-quality window well covers and liners, explore our selection at Window Well Supply, where we offer durable solutions to keep your home safe year-round.

Stay warm and worry-free this winter with a well-prepped window well!