Leaking Window Wells: Causes, Prevention, and Repair

Window wells are an essential component of many basement windows, providing natural light and ventilation to below-grade spaces. They are often made of metal or concrete and are designed to keep soil away from the window while also allowing water to drain away from the foundation. However, window wells can also be a source of water intrusion into the basement if not properly installed or maintained. In this blog post, we will discuss 10 popular topics related to leaking window wells, including causes, prevention, and repair.

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How to prevent water from entering window wells

Preventing water from entering window wells involves proper installation and maintenance. During installation, it is crucial to ensure that the well is properly sealed to the foundation to prevent gaps. It is also important to install a drainage system that allows water to drain away from the foundation. Regular maintenance is also necessary to prevent clogging of the drainage system. This can be done by periodically cleaning the drainage system and ensuring that the well is free of debris and leaves.

Causes of leaking
window wells

Leaking window wells can be caused by various factors, including poor installation, clogged drainage, and damaged or deteriorated materials. Improper installation is a common cause of leaking window wells, as it can lead to gaps between the well and the foundation, allowing water to seep in. Clogged drainage is another common cause of leaking window wells, as debris and leaves can accumulate in the drainage system, preventing water from draining properly. Lastly, damaged or deteriorated materials, such as rusted metal or cracked concrete, can also cause water to seep into the basement.

Signs of water damage around window wells

Signs of water damage around window wells include moisture or water stains on the walls or floor of the basement, musty odors, and visible mold or mildew growth. Additionally, if you notice rust on the metal window well or cracks on the concrete, it may indicate that water is penetrating the window well and entering the basement.

Importance of proper drainage for window wells

Proper drainage is essential for window wells to prevent water from entering the basement. A drainage system should be installed around the window well to allow water to drain away from the foundation. The drainage system can be a perforated pipe or a gravel-filled trench that directs water to a sump pump or a drainage outlet away from the house.

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Leaking Window Wells

Materials to use for sealing window wells

Various materials can be used to seal window wells, including silicone caulking, foam backer rod, and hydraulic cement. Silicone caulking is a flexible material that can be applied to the gaps between the window well and the foundation to prevent water from entering. Foam backer rod can be used to fill larger gaps before applying silicone caulking. Hydraulic cement is a fast-drying material that can be used to fill cracks and gaps in the concrete window well.

Common mistakes to avoid when installing window wells

Common mistakes to avoid when installing window wells include improper sizing, inadequate drainage, and incorrect installation. Improper sizing can lead to gaps between the window well and the foundation, which can allow water to seep in. Inadequate drainage can also cause water to accumulate in the well, leading to water intrusion. Incorrect installation can also result in gaps between the well and the foundation, and it may also compromise the structural integrity of the window well.
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How to repair a leaking window well

To repair a leaking window well, you will need to identify the source of the leak and address it accordingly. If the leak is due to a gap between the window well and the foundation, you can apply silicone caulking or foam backer rod to seal the gap. If the leak is due to a crack in the concrete window well

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