Window Well Installation & Upgrades

Several warning signs indicate it's time to replace your window wells: 1) Visible rust, cracks, or deterioration of the window well structure; 2) Water pooling in the well or seeping into your basement after rainfall; 3) The well pulling away from your foundation wall, creating gaps; 4) Soil or debris continuously falling into the well despite regular cleaning; or 5) Inadequate depth that doesn't meet current building codes for emergency egress. If your home is more than 15-20 years old with original window wells, it's also worth having them inspected, as older installations often lack modern drainage features critical for Calgary's climate. We offer free assessments to evaluate your current window wells and recommend appropriate solutions.

For Calgary's climate, we primarily recommend galvanized steel and high-grade polyethylene/composite window wells. Galvanized steel offers excellent durability (20+ year lifespan), superior strength, and modern ribbed designs that resist bowing from soil pressure. Polyethylene/composite wells are completely rust-proof, provide better insulation properties, and often feature more attractive designs. For historic homes, we also offer custom-built stone window wells that provide both aesthetic appeal and functionality. All our installations include critical drainage components specifically designed for our freeze-thaw cycles, including gravel drainage beds, weeping tile connections where possible, and protective covers to prevent snow and debris accumulation.

Yes, even well-designed window wells require some maintenance to ensure long-term performance. We recommend: 1) Seasonal cleaning (spring and fall) to remove leaves, debris, and other blockages; 2) Annual inspection of drainage systems to ensure they're functioning properly; 3) Checking the seal between the well and foundation wall annually; and 4) Clearing snow accumulation during winter months to prevent excessive weight and water issues during thaws. For homes with window well covers, occasional cleaning of the covers maintains light transmission. With this basic maintenance, quality window wells should perform effectively for 15-25 years depending on the materials used.

Standard window wells are primarily designed to keep soil away from basement windows and provide some natural light, typically with depths of 14-24 inches. Egress window wells, by contrast, are specifically designed to meet building code requirements for emergency exits, featuring larger dimensions (typically at least 36 inches in projection from the foundation), greater depth, and often include steps or ladders for emergency escape. In Calgary, egress wells are required by code for basement bedrooms and living spaces. These larger wells not only improve safety but also allow for larger windows, dramatically increasing natural light in basement areas. Our team can help determine which type is appropriate for your specific situation and ensure all installations meet current building codes.

Window well replacement in Calgary typically ranges from $800-$2,500 per window well, depending on several factors. Standard window well replacements with basic drainage usually fall in the $800-$1,200 range, while full egress window well systems with advanced drainage features generally cost $1,500-$2,500 each. Factors affecting cost include: the window well size and material; excavation depth and complexity; drainage system requirements; foundation waterproofing needs; window condition (which may need upgrading); and accessibility issues. Most homeowners replace 2-4 window wells at once, which provides some economies of scale. During your free consultation, we provide a detailed quote based on your specific needs with no hidden costs or surprises.