Inspect and Clean Window Wells
Why It Matters
Clogged window wells fill with water during rain, eventually leaking into your basement and causing water damage.
Quick Guide
- 1
Gather your tools and materials
You'll need: Garden trowel. Materials required: necessary materials.
- 2
Perform the inspect and clean window wells
Clear debris from basement window wells and check that covers are intact and drains are clear.
- 3
Verify and clean up
Check that the work was completed correctly and clean up your workspace.
Tools & Materials
Tools
- Garden trowel
Community Tips
Remove debris and standing water immediately after rain, as stagnant water in window wells attracts mosquitoes and accelerates foundation damage through moisture infiltration. A garden trowel efficiently scrapes out packed sediment and leaf matter that standard vacuums cannot reach.
Never allow window wells to accumulate more than 2 inches of standing water, as this creates hydrostatic pressure that forces moisture through foundation cracks and basement walls. Metal window well covers like those from Bilco ($60-120) prevent debris accumulation and eliminate this risk entirely.
Installing a basic plastic window well drain system costs $15-40 per well and redirects water away from the foundation, preventing the $500-2,000 basement water damage repairs that commonly result from neglected wells. This low-cost preventive step eliminates the need for costly dehumidifiers and mold remediation later. ---