A layer of gravel at the bottom of most window wells allows natural drainage. Adding a window well to your home is a possibility if water is still a problem. If you don’t have access to a well, consider installing a rain barrel. Rain barrels are a great way to collect rainwater and store it for later use. They can also be used for other purposes, such as watering lawns.
Table of Contents
Where do window well drains drain to?
Some newer homes have window well drains tied to the drainage tiles located either inside of the building. If you have any questions or concerns about your drain, please contact your local building department.
Do all window wells need a drain?
Every window well should have a drain to allow water to exit the window well and not build to a level that causes a basement seepage problem. The drain should be at least 3/4″ in diameter. They are available in a wide variety of sizes and colors. If you are installing a new well, you will want to make sure that the tile you purchase is the same size as the existing tile.
It is also a good idea to check the manufacturer’s specifications for the type of tile that is being installed. Some manufacturers will not allow you to install a tile larger than the size specified on the product label, so be sure to double-check the specifications before you buy.
How deep should a window well drain be?
It’s time to dig the hole in which you’ll place the window well. The hole should be at least six inches from the window’s exterior. The hole should be five inches deeper and six inches wider than the original window well, but not so deep that you can’t see through it. Once you’ve dug your hole, you need to fill it with gravel.
You can use any type of gravel, including gravel from your yard. If you don’t have any gravel on hand, consider buying some from a garden center or garden supply store. It’s a good idea to use a shovel to dig the gravel into the ground, as it will make the job a lot easier later on.
Why does my window well fill up with water?
Weeds, leaves, dirt, and other debris clog window wells, causing them to fill with water. The water enters your home through the window. If you have a leaky window well, you may be able to fix it yourself, but it will cost you a lot of money. You may also need to hire a professional to do the work for you.
Why are window wells ribbed?
A window well is a barrier made of ribbed metal or plastic that prevents water from pooling by your basement windows. If your basement window is below the grade of the ground, you can prevent it from flooding.
Do basement window wells have drains?
He said that the drain could potentially need to be replaced over time. The home also had a leaky faucet and a broken shower head, according to a news release from the sheriff’s office.
What do you put in the bottom of a window well?
The loose gravel at the bottom of the well helps with drainage. It should not be allowed to become too small or it will cause the water to collect in the well. It is possible to replace gravel periodically or to clean it before putting it back in.
If you are using a well pump, make sure that the water level is not too low. If it is too high, the pump will not work properly and you will have to pump more water from the source.
How far above grade should a window well be?
The window well needs to be between 1 to 4 inches above the final grade to be installed. The window well should be mounted flush against the wall and caulked to create a sealed seal.
If you are installing a new roof, you will need to make sure that the roof is installed in a manner that will not allow water to seep into the basement.
If you do not have access to a roofing contractor, then you may want to consult with a structural engineer to determine the best way to install your roof.
How long do window wells last?
The average lifespan of a window well made of galvanized steel is 75 years. If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, it may be a good idea to install a rain gutters to prevent water from entering your home.
