Maya Ellison
Window well covers are sheets of material that fit over window wells to prevent people, animals, dirt, debris, snow, and rain from falling in. They are usually made of metal or plastic and can be flat, domed, or sloped. Installing window well covers can be a DIY project, but it requires careful planning and precise measurements to ensure a proper fit and long-lasting protection. This guide will walk you through the steps to secure plastic window well covers, from measuring and choosing the right type of cover to marking installation points and drilling holes for a secure fit.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Installation | Measure the window well, choose a suitable cover, position the cover, mark drill points, drill holes, secure the cover, check for stability, test drainage |
| Materials | Metal, plastic (polyethylene, polycarbonate), stainless steel, concrete, wood |
| Tools | Drill, drill bits, mounting clips, screws, anchors, hammer, marker/pencil, measuring tape, level |
| Benefits | Keep out rain, leaves, snow, debris, animals, pests; prevent basement flooding; enhance home's exterior; protect children and animals from falling in |
| Considerations | Shape, material, strength, weight capacity, durability, security, light permeability, cost, local building codes |
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What You'll Learn
Measure the window well
To secure a plastic window well cover, you must first measure the window well to ensure a proper fit. This process does not require any special tools or equipment, and you can use simple items found in most homes. A tape measure with both inches and feet will be useful. It is also good to have a notepad and pencil handy to write down the dimensions as you go, preventing mistakes.
Firstly, measure the width of the window well at both the front and back, where it touches the house. Note the widest width. Then, measure from the side of the house to the outside edge of the window well in at least two places. It is important to measure from the wall to the outside edge of the well at its widest point.
Next, you should measure the height of the window well. If your window is above the lip of the well, measure the distance from the lip of the well to the top of the window frame on both the left and right sides. If the top of the window is higher than the top of the well, measure the window height from the ground to the top of the window.
Finally, note the shape of the window well. Most are either rounded, have square (or nearly square) corners, or form a U shape with gently rounded corners. Also, check if the back edge of the cover needs to slip into the window opening in the foundation and below the siding. Take photos directly above and in front of the window well to ensure no obstructions will affect the functionality.
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Choose the right cover
Choosing the right window well cover is essential for functionality and protection. Before purchasing a window well cover, it is necessary to carefully measure your window well. Measure the width at its widest point, the height from the ground to the top edge, and the projection, or distance from the exterior wall to the outer edge of the window well. Most window well covers will need to be attached to the well itself, so accurate measurements are crucial to ensure a snug fit.
Once you have the measurements, you can choose a cover that fits perfectly. There are two main types of below-ground window wells: those that allow sunlight through small or medium-sized windows and are usually mounted high on the basement wall, and oversized "egress" wells with larger windows for emergency escape. Consider the function and style of the cover. Clear covers provide more light, while metal provides more durability and security. If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, for example, a bubble cover that provides extra height might be a good option.
The shape, material, and strength of the cover are also important considerations. Plastic window well covers are usually transparent, allowing light into the basement, and can be flat or domed. Polycarbonate plastic is a good choice as it is stronger and more durable than other plastics. Metal covers, on the other hand, are typically flat horizontal grates that let in light while preventing falls. If you want to prevent children or animals from falling into the window well, choose a strong metal grate or thick plastic cover rated to hold more weight. For basic protection against pests and precipitation, a thin plastic cover will suffice.
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Mark installation points
Marking the installation points is a crucial step in the installation process, ensuring a secure fit for your plastic window well cover. Here is a step-by-step guide to marking the installation points:
Place the Cover Over the Window Well
Position the plastic window well cover over the window well. Ensure it aligns perfectly with the edges of the well. The cover should sit evenly on all sides, maintaining symmetry for both aesthetic and functional purposes.
Use a Marker to Mark the Installation Points
With the cover securely in place, use a marker or pencil to indicate the points where the cover's mounting hardware will be attached to the well. These marks will serve as your guide for the drilling process.
Double-Check the Alignment
Before proceeding, it is essential to verify the alignment of the cover and the marked installation points. This step ensures that your drilling will be accurate and aligned with the mounting hardware.
Select the Appropriate Drill Bit
Choose a drill bit that corresponds to the size of the mounting screws provided with your plastic window well cover. Using the correct drill bit size is crucial to ensure a secure fit and avoid any damage to the window well or the cover itself.
Drill Carefully at the Marked Points
Now, use your drill to create holes at the marked points. Ensure that the holes are deep enough to securely accommodate the screws. If you are drilling into a metal or concrete window well, be sure to select the appropriate drill bit to prevent any damage.
Secure the Cover to the Window Well
Finally, place the cover back over the well, carefully aligning it with the holes you have drilled. This step ensures that the cover is firmly attached to the window well, creating a secure and functional barrier.
By following these steps, you will effectively mark the installation points for your plastic window well cover, contributing to a safe and successful installation process.
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Drill holes
Drilling holes is a common method used to secure plastic window well covers. However, it is important to note that drilling and anchoring into the siding can lead to water infiltration, causing issues with rotted wood and mould over time. If you still wish to proceed with drilling, here is a step-by-step guide:
- Take measurements: Before drilling, carefully measure the width of your window well at the front and back, noting the widest point. Also, measure from the side of the house to the outside edge of the window well in at least two places.
- Mark drilling points: Based on your measurements, mark the areas where you will drill the holes. Ensure these points are stable and will not compromise the structure of the window well.
- Prepare the tools: Use a good-quality masonry bit for drilling through concrete or cement. If you are drilling into the cover itself, use a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the nails or screws you will use to secure the cover.
- Drill the holes: Place a piece of wood underneath the marked drilling area to prevent damage to the cover. Drill through the wood and the cover, creating holes that are barely larger than the diameter of your nails or screws.
- Secure the cover: After drilling the holes, inspect the nails or screws you will use to secure the cover. The holes should be just large enough to accommodate them snugly. Attach the cover to the window well using these fasteners.
- Test and inspect: Once the cover is installed, test its security by applying gentle pressure to ensure it is firmly attached. Inspect the cover for any signs of warping or bending, and make sure it fits correctly.
Remember to take the necessary safety precautions when operating power tools and always wear appropriate protective gear.
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Secure the cover
Securing the cover is the most important step in the installation process. Before securing the cover, it is important to measure the window well accurately and choose a suitable cover. Once you have the right cover, follow these steps:
Mark the Installation Points:
Use a marker or pencil to mark the points where you will be drilling. These marks should be on the window well frame or the foundation wall, depending on the design of your cover and where it needs to be secured. Make sure the cover is correctly positioned and aligned perfectly with the edges of the well.
Select the Right Drill Bit:
Use a drill bit that matches the size of the mounting screws provided with your cover. If you are drilling into a metal or concrete window well, be sure to use the appropriate drill bit to avoid damage.
Drill Carefully:
Drill holes at the marked points, ensuring they are deep enough to securely hold the screws. Be careful not to damage the cover or the well during the drilling process.
Place the cover back over the well, aligning it with the holes you drilled. Attach the mounting hardware and screws to secure the cover in place. Be careful not to overtighten the screws, as this could damage the cover or the well.
Test the Installation:
Once the cover is secured, test its stability by gently pushing on it to ensure it is firmly in place. Also, test the drainage by pouring a small amount of water onto the cover to check if it drains properly without pooling.
Securing the cover properly is essential to ensure the safety and protection of your basement or window well area.
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Frequently asked questions
Measure the width, projection, and height of your window well. Record these measurements and choose a plastic cover that fits your window well snugly.
Mark the installation points with a marker and double-check the alignment. Drill holes for the mounting hardware, ensuring they are deep enough to securely hold the screws. Place the cover over the window well, aligning it with the holes you drilled.
The type of drill you will need depends on the material of your home's exterior. For example, use a masonry bit for concrete foundations and a wood drill for wooden frames.
Check that the cover is properly sloped to allow water to run off. If the slope is correct, inspect the drainage system of the window well and clear any blockages.
