What a window well does
A window well is the metal or plastic surround that keeps soil away from a basement window that sits below ground level. It lets in light and air, and in many homes it also gives a basement bedroom a way out in an emergency. That last job is the reason to take winter seriously: a well packed with snow and ice is not much of an exit.
Why wells fill up with snow
- Wind blows snow into the well and it packs down.
- Snow sliding off the roof lands right beside the foundation.
- Snow cleared from the driveway, walkway or side path is often thrown or piled along the side of the house, on top of the wells.
- In a thaw, meltwater runs into the well, then freezes solid when the temperature drops again.
The risks of a buried well
A full well holds snow against the window and the foundation. When it melts, the water has nowhere to go but down the side of the wall or against the window seal, and that is a common way for water to get into a basement in late winter. Ice can also crack an older window or jam it shut. And if the window is meant as an emergency exit from a basement bedroom or apartment, it needs to open and the well needs to be clear enough to climb out.
If you rent out a basement unit, this matters even more. Our guide to snow removal for basement apartments and side entrances covers the rest of the route your tenant uses.
Simple ways to keep wells clear
- Check the wells after every big storm and after windy days, not just when you remember.
- Scoop snow out by hand with a small plastic shovel. Avoid chipping at ice next to the glass with anything sharp.
- Never pile shovelled or blown snow on top of the wells. Pick a spot for snow away from the foundation.
- Mark wells with a stake or flag before the first snowfall, so anyone clearing your property can see where they are.
- Consider a clear window well cover. Covers keep most snow and leaves out while still letting light in. If the window is an emergency exit, choose a cover that can be opened easily from below, and follow the maker's instructions.
- Make sure the gravel or drain at the bottom of the well is clear in the fall, so meltwater can soak away.
If water is already coming in through a window or the wall, or the window is cracked or will not open, call a qualified contractor or waterproofing company. These are general tips, and a professional can tell you whether the well needs a drain, a new cover or better grading.
Grading, downspouts and the sump pump
Window wells work best when the ground around the house slopes away from the foundation and the downspouts discharge well away from the wall. If a downspout empties near a well, the well collects that water too. Our guides on why ice forms under downspouts and frozen sump pump discharge lines explain how water around the house turns into winter problems.
Other things to keep clear at ground level
While you are checking the wells, look at the other low spots along the house: furnace and water heater vents, the gas meter, the dryer vent and the heat pump. Each can be blocked by drifting snow or a snow pile. See keeping furnace vents and gas meters clear of snow and keeping your heat pump clear.
Tell us where the wells are
Snow cleared from a driveway or walkway has to be put somewhere, usually along the edges and on the lawn. When you request a quote, mention any window wells, vents or outlets beside the driveway or path, and mark them for the season. That way they can be noted from the first visit.
How a seasonal plan helps
Window wells are easier to keep clear when the driveway and walkway are already handled. A seasonal snow removal plan clears your driveway automatically from December 1 to March 31 whenever 5 cm or more falls. In long storms we come back for return visits, the City windrow at the end of the driveway is cleared, and you get a timestamped photo after every visit.
Prices (all plus HST):
- Single or 1.5-car driveway: $650 to $725 for the season
- Double driveway: $815
- 3-car, paver or stamped driveway: $1,050
- Walkway and steps: from $150, or $175 for a walk plus up to 6 steps; sidewalk $90
- Seasonal salt, including freezing rain and refreeze visits: $175
- Pet-safe de-icer: $120
- Priority early-morning clearing: $125
- Season extension from November 1 to April 15: add $95
Prefer to pay only when you need it? Per-visit snow removal is $70 to $85 a visit. Seasonal plans take a 30% deposit with the balance before December 1, and seniors and front-line workers save 5% on seasonal plans. We carry $2,000,000 in liability insurance, are registered with WSIB and are LPMA members.
Get a quote
Every quote is measured from City of London maps, and residential quotes come back within 1 business day. Ask for a free quote or call or text (548) 639-2069.
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