How To Install Basement Window Well

A basement window well provides natural light and ventilation to your basement, and can be a great way to improve the overall look of your home. Installing a window well is a relatively straightforward project that can be completed in a weekend with the right tools and materials.

Materials you'll need:

Window well kit
Gravel
Landscaping fabric
Caulk
Level
Tape measure
Shovel
Tamper
Circular saw or reciprocating saw
Hammer or nail gun

Steps:

Choose the right window well kit.

There are many different types of window well kits available, so it's important to choose one that is the right size and shape for your basement window. The kit should also be made of a durable material, such as concrete, plastic, or metal.

Excavate the hole for the window well.

The hole should be large enough to accommodate the window well kit, plus about 6 inches of clearance on all sides. The hole should also be level, so use a level to make sure it is even before you begin digging.

Install the window well kit.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing the window well kit. In general, this will involve setting the kit in the hole and securing it with stakes or bolts.

Backfill the hole with gravel.

Fill the hole around the window well kit with gravel. The gravel will help to drain water away from the window well and prevent the soil from eroding.

Install landscaping fabric.

Cut a piece of landscaping fabric to fit over the gravel. The landscaping fabric will help to keep weeds from growing in the window well.

Caulk the window well.

Apply a bead of caulk around the edge of the window well to seal it and prevent water from leaking in.

Install the window.

Install the window in the window well according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Tips:

If you are not comfortable installing a basement window well yourself, you can hire a contractor to do it for you.
Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when installing the window well kit.
Caulk the window well around the edge of the window to prevent water from leaking in.
Install a window well cover to protect the window well from debris and water.