Window wells are set into the ground and can fill with water during rainstorms unless equipped with proper drainage. Without effective drainage, water pressure or age can lead to leaks.

If the basement windows and window well are not correctly installed, the likelihood of leaks increases significantly.

Cracked windows, damaged seals, or compromised window wells can all lead to leaks, moisture, and even mold or mildew growth.

Over time, even high-quality windows can deteriorate. Failing to maintain your windows can result in leaks due to breakdowns.

Melting snow applies consistent pressure on basement windows, leading to slow, persistent water drips that can stress even the healthiest windows.

Many homeowners are unaware that lawn sprinklers can damage ground-level windows. Similar to melting snow, they can create constant water pressure against the windows and cause pooling in window wells.

Heavy rainfall and flooding pose significant risks, especially if your window well lacks a proper cover. Such conditions can exert pressure on windows and allow water to seep through small cracks.

A leaking window well can cause humidity levels in your basement to rise suddenly. This discomfort can lead to additional problems.

Humid conditions are ideal for mold and mildew, which can take hold in any organic materials left in your basement. If the wells remain damp, mold can spread to the walls or even penetrate them if they aren’t solid.

While you may find mold undesirable, insects thrive on it. If mold and mildew are not addressed, you could find yourself with unwanted guests like mold mites, termites, and cockroaches.

Humid air requires more energy to heat or cool than dry air. Homeowners often notice minor leaks in their basement window wells or crawl space vents when they see an unexpected increase in energy costs, sometimes up to 15%.

If water intrusion is significant, it can damage items stored in your basement. Boxes and furniture can become waterlogged, potentially ruining important documents or sentimental items.

In addition to these issues, a leaking window well can make your basement and home environment uncomfortable. Taking action to address the leak promptly is crucial for maintaining a healthy and pleasant living space.

The best approach to dealing with a leaking window well is to prevent it from happening in the first place. While complete avoidance isn’t always possible, there are several steps you can take to maintain your window well and minimize the risk of leaks.

1. Keep Drainage Clear
   Ensure that the drainage in your window well is free from debris to prevent clogs.
2. Treat Exposed Wood
   Regularly apply a mold-resistant varnish to any exposed wood to protect it from moisture.
3. Conduct Regular Maintenance Checks
   Perform yearly or biannual inspections to ensure that all components of your window and well are in good condition. Regular checks allow you to catch minor issues before they escalate into major problems. During your inspections, look for:

1. • Blocked drainage
   • Weathered or peeling sealant
   • Cracks in the frame
   • Rust in the window’s mechanisms
   • Slimy deposits on the inner windowsill

If you notice any of these signs, contact a professional to assess the window and well. They can confirm proper installation and identify any potential problems.

Once you've determined that you have a leaking window well in your basement, it's crucial to act quickly to resolve the issue. The best way to address the problem is to have a Wet Basement Services professional evaluate your basement and windows to pinpoint the likely cause of the leak.

It may be tempting to ignore a small leak, but doing so can lead to bigger issues down the line. Here are some common solutions a professional might recommend for dealing with a leaking window well:

If your basement windows feature large wells, drainage ducts may be a suitable option. While you can install these yourself, it’s advisable to have professionals handle the job to ensure it’s done correctly and to avoid further complications.

You can fill in any cracks you find on your own. To do this, use a thin chisel to slightly widen the cracks and then fill them with a mixture of five parts cement to one part water. However, it’s best to leave this task to a professional.

If the windows were improperly installed or are too worn to repair, it may be necessary to replace them entirely.