Weakness, yellowing from the sun and incorrect sizing are all common troubles with plastic bubble-style window well covers, but this product from Window Well Covers solves all of them. Extremely customizable in size and shape, the unit comes with UV protection to prevent yellowing, along with a full lifetime warranty if it ever breaks.
It can be hard to find a pre-made grate-style cover to fit your particular window well, and that’s where this product from Window Well Experts comes in. Surprisingly light and easy to install, the units are infinitely customizable to your specific window well shape and size, leading to a perfect fit every time.
They also come with an optional openable hatch in the middle in case someone needs to climb out a basement window during an emergency. The cost to outfit most standard-size window wells with one of these covers ranges from $300 to $500.
What to Consider When Buying a Window Well Cover
Not installing window well covers can have detrimental effects not only on your home but also on people walking around your home. “We have seen flooded window wells, window wells with baby skunks in them, horrible personal injuries and deaths that have occurred from uncovered or improperly covered window wells,” says Faltinson.
Kathy recommends keeping these important things in mind when selecting window well covers for your home.
- Will it fit your unique well?
- How much weight will the window well cover hold?
- Is it made from quality materials and durable?
- Will it keep your window well dry?
- Do you need ventilation?
- Is the cover egress compliant?
In order for a window well cover to do its intended job, it needs to fit properly. Take measurements before you decide on the one you’re purchasing.
“If a window well cover doesn’t fit correctly, it will not keep out rain, ice and snow,” says Faltinson. “An ill-fitting cover will not support a weight load properly, nor will it keep out pests and wildlife.”
You also need to think about the climate you live in. Make sure to purchase a cover that will withstand and block out the elements such as wind, sun, rain and snow. Lastly, take safety into account. Windows that require a well cover may be the escape route to the rooms they lead to. Every cover should follow code and allow a person to escape in the case of an emergency.
Why You Should Trust Us
I’m a DIY expert who’s covered a range of topics for Family Handyman readers. My carpentry work and skills have allowed me to understand what homeowners need to look for in the products they buy. I understand the impact a major home repair can have on people and I use that to guide my recommendations.
We consulted with Kathy Faltinson, the Marketing Manager at Window Well Experts. She has worked at the company for the past 14 years and has an extensive sales and practical marketing background. Window Well Experts is a family-owned company with a nationwide reach that builds custom egress solutions such as window wells, window well covers, basement windows and other accessories.
How We Found the Best Window Well Covers
We researched many different window well covers on the market to gather a comprehensive list of options for every window scenario. Then, we spoke to a window well cover expert to understand what features buyers should be looking for when they shop. Finally, we combed through user reviews to see how real people interact with window well covers that they’ve purchased and put to the test.
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