5 Warning Signs Your Window Well Needs to Be Replaced

Window wells are a home feature that is often out of sight and, as such, out of mind. However, industry experts advise against ignoring your window wells, as waiting until a major problem arises can lead to significant issues.

All homeowners need to learn to identify the warning signs of a failing window well before it causes serious basement flooding, pest issues, or health concerns. 

Window wells aren’t just aesthetic, rather, they help maintain your home’s structural integrity, drainage system, and emergency egress compliance, so keep an eye out for the following 5 signs that something is wrong with your window wells:

Structural Damage and Rust

Naturally, the first indicator that your window wells need to be replaced is if you notice any structural damage or rust. Discoloration or rust streaks along the inside of the well, flaking metal or blistering paint, and loose bolts, screws, or detachments are what you should be looking for in particular.

Rust compromises the well’s structural strength, especially during periods of heavy rain or snow, which can lead to basement flooding or sharp edges breaking off that can cause injury. If structural concerns are already widespread and deep by the time you notice them, your well should be replaced and not just patched. 

Pooling Water and Drainage Issues

The second issue that can alert you to a more widespread concern with your window wells is any pooling water or drainage issues. Standing water at the bottom of the window well, damp soil or mildew odors, and flooded wells after storms (even with covers) can all be signals of a larger problem.

This is important to address because it indicates poor or blocked drainage, potentially due to clogged or damaged pipes. This increased the risk of basement flooding, wall damage, mold growth, and other health issues. 

On top of this, the foundation or window frame can become damaged over time, which leads to more repairs being needed. Always call out the best window well contractor to inspect and clean, or replace the drainage system if you aren’t sure of the status of your window wells. 

Cracked or Bowing Well Walls

The third issue to keep an eye out for is any cracked or bowing window wells. Vertical or horizontal cracks in plastic, concrete, or metal window wells can all be indicative of a larger issue. Additionally, any bulging, denting, or uneven pressure can indicate a similar problem. 

This can create a larger issue as cracked or bowed walls may collapse, especially when subjected to heavy snow or soil pressure, leading to damage to the basement window itself. At the very least, this can impede the emergency exit routes of your home, which is why it should be addressed promptly.

Window Well Cover Issues

Any type of issues with the covers of your window wells, including one that doesn’t sit flush, is cracked, has fog, or is missing entirely, should raise your eyebrow. Additionally, noticing any water, leaves, or small animals within the well itself can indicate a wider issue. 

Window well covers are essential for keeping out debris, pests, and water. Warped or poorly fitting covers can be a sign that the window well itself has shifted or deteriorated over time, which can be a safety hazard if someone steps on a cracked or unsecured cover. 

A window well cover should fit snugly and securely, but if the well’s current shape is preventing it from fitting properly, then a replacement may be the smarter long-term fix. 

Missing or Unsafe Egress Ladder

The fifth issue you may notice with your window wells is an unsafe, or perhaps even missing, egress ladder. If there is no ladder present in a window well deeper than 44 inches, you already have an issue. Should you have a ladder but it has rusted or wobbly rungs in addition to being loose or improperly anchored, then there is also an issue. 

Many building codes require that ladders be present, accessible, and functional for emergency escape scenarios. A missing or non-compliant ladder can be a major safety concern for a homeowner. Ensure that a code-compliant ladder is installed and maintained around your well if it is not already.

Conclusion: Preserve the integrity of your home 

Even small signs of deterioration of your window wells can indicate a bigger problem coming down the line. If you happen to notice rust, pooling water, or various structural issues, it might be time for a replacement and not just a repair. 

Contact a trusted provider to schedule an evaluation of your window wells if you are even unsure, as they can install rust-free and code-compliant systems that are built to last.