Some Facts On Window Well Covers

A window can be one of the easiest ways for a criminal to enter a home, especially when it is a basement window. The challenge is many large basement window wells are required to be put in place by the IRC 2000 Egress Code, which states that windows with a sill height that is below ground elevation must have a window well that is at least 9 square feet with a horizontal projection of 36 inches.

This is a huge and vulnerable doorway into the privacy of your home, which is understandable, but this egress area can also be protected and designed to deter criminals and critters by placing an egress window well cover over the well.

These can also help prevent water damage and snow fill in a well, depending on the style you get whether it's polycarbonate, steel or other material. Steel covers, include mesh, rebar and other forms of covers, which sometimes have holes in them to allow sunlight through. They also help prevent accidents and protect children and small pets from falling into what can equate to a 3-4 foot deep hole next to your home, and most homes have numerous well enclosures. While the window wells are there for your safety incase of a fire or other emergency escape situation, it also allows emergency crews to easily enter your home.

This escape is made easier with the use of safety escape ladders, so don't overlook the idea of purchasing one. Most homes should come with at least one ladder as an escaper route, but it's not a bad idea to have more than one.

Certain basement window covers are custom fit for better protection and when properly built can hold more than 300 pounds. This is not the case with a lot of poorly made covers that rust easily and do not hold much weight. Rubberized coated window well covers are often better because unlike painted or sand blasted covers, they include UV protection, anti-rust and corrosion protection for maximum life and maximum protection.