How a well fills up

A window well is a metal or plastic liner set into the ground around a below-grade window, with gravel at the bottom and, ideally, a drain tied into a perimeter drain system. When it works, rain falls into the well and soaks through the gravel. When silt packs the gravel, the drain is clogged or missing, or roof runoff pours straight in, the water rises like a bathtub.

Basement windows aren't built to hold back standing water. Once the level reaches the bottom of the frame, water seeps around it, under the sill and sometimes through a cracked pane. In a heavy storm with hail, the weight of ice and debris can break the window and let the water rush in.

Because this water came off the ground surface, it counts as contaminated. That changes what you can keep in the room.

During and right after the storm

  1. Stay clear of electrical hazards

    If water is near outlets, power strips or a baseboard heater, shut off that circuit at the panel before you enter the room.

  2. Slow the inflow if it's safe

    Once the lightning has passed, bail or pump the well from outside and clear leaves or hail off the top of the gravel.

  3. Redirect the roof water

    Move the downspout extension or splash block so roof runoff stops pouring toward the well.

  4. Photograph inside and out

    Capture the water level in the well, the window and the wet room for your records.

  5. Pull wet carpet and pad quickly

    Surface water is contaminated, so porous flooring it soaked usually has to come out instead of being dried.

Quick facts about window wells

Water category
Surface water entering a basement is generally treated as contaminated
Most common cause
Clogged gravel or drain, plus roof runoff aimed at the well
Insurance
Surface water is often handled differently from plumbing leaks; ask your agent
Covers
Clear covers keep out leaves and some rain but must be removable for egress

Stopping the next one

  • Clear leaves and debris out of every well each spring and fall.
  • Pour a bucket of water into each well and watch whether it drains in a reasonable time.
  • Make sure the soil around the well slopes away from the house.
  • Extend downspouts so they empty well away from wells and foundation walls.
  • Add a clear, egress-rated cover over wells that collect debris.
  • Ask a contractor whether the well drain connects to anything or just ends in gravel.

General information for Lakewood, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.