Window Well Replacement and Exchange
Window Well Exchange and Replacement CompanyExperienced Window Well Replacement, Exchange & Construction
-Do You Have Rusted Out Window Needs Replaced?
Basement Windows of Denver by Kruse Construction also specializes in window well replacements, also called window well exchanges.
From the smaller wells in older homes to the large ones in the newer homes, we can do it all! Receiving a quote from us is easy!
The best way to begin is to click the contact button on the upper righthand corner of this screen. All the information you provide us with goes directly to the owners of the company and never shared or outsourced. In most cases we can provide an accurate quote within 24 hours.
BEFORE & AFTER Window Well Replacement Pictures
➢ From Old Rusted Out Window Well
➢ To New Window Well Construction & Installation
Why is my window well rusting?
Most window well replacements are needed due to deteriorating, rusting wells. It can happen to just one well, several, or all of them, leaving you wondering why this is happening.
In short- this is happening due to electrolysis which is a direct result of new building codes implemented around the year 2000.
Problems with window wells rusting and corroding started to become a common occurrence and since then there has been extensive research done in order to figure out WHY it was happening and how to prevent it. Unfortunately, the facts are still not known widely enough to put this phenomenon to an end. To put it plainly; wells are deteriorating due to electrolysis which is caused when an attachment bolt(s) comes in contact with an electrical conductor (metal to metal contact). The reason for the sudden onset of this issue is due to changes in building codes. New building codes started to require additional rebar and new electrical code implemented the use of ufer ground, both of which act as electrical conductors. Unbeknownst to builders and the well manufacturers themselves at the time, this now increased the chances for electrolysis. It took several years to discover the problem and resulted in a lot of finger pointing and back and forth.
This can be very frustrating for homeowners because, unfortunately, builders very rarely take any kind of responsibility for the issue, leaving you holding the bag. Typically, by the time you notice the problem, it’s a lot worse than it appears….
The process of electrolysis begins on the dirt side of your well, causing the well to rust, easily eating through the flimsy well. Think of the rust like you would the tip of the iceberg, the majority of it is not visible to you. The rusting starts on the dirt side and eventually rusts through to the front/visible side, meaning there is quite a bit more rust than what you can see.
Other reasons to replace your window well…
You also may want to replace your window well because your current well does not meet code. In order for the well to be egress window code complaint, the projection of the window well should be 36”. This is especially important if the window well we are replacing is in a bedroom area or may be one in the future. Perhaps you think you don’t need one because your finished basement does not include a bedroom, but according to code, any basement over 200 square feet must have at least one safety escape route such as an egress an egress window, regardless if there is a bedroom or not.
In these cases, we highly recommend that you upgrade to make your window well code compliant.
Perhaps you are embarking on a landscaping project; this is another good time to consider replacing your window well. A lot of times landscapers will suggest that you replace your window well before encasing them in cement/decks/extensive landscaping. Or maybe you just want to upgrade your well to a more attractive well. Whatever the reason, we’ve got you covered!
We won’t let it happen again!
A lot of our customers are concerned about going through the process and then having the same problem again the future, but rest assured you are in good hands with Basement Windows of Denver. We take several steps to ensure that repeated electrolysis is avoided at all cost. This includes using a wider window well so we can avoid the rebar, sealing techniques and a high quality, thick well with a white waterproof coating just to name a few.
Along with all of our preventative measures, we do a test before and after installation for further insurance. We also warranty our work for your peace of mind.
Do I have to replace my rusted well?
The era of the internet allows access to endless information, but sadly some of the information we encounter on the internet is not accurate. While there may be some other reasons for damaged window wells, the majority of the time it’s rusting due to electrolysis. There is information on the web saying the reason is due to wear and tear, weather and water damage. There are suggestions out there to paint it, seal it and cover it. This is NOT accurate information; in fact, this could make things even worse.
Painting over the unsightly damage or installing a decorative window well liner is only a “Band-Aid Solution” and is not recommended at all. Window Well liners, not to be confused with the window well itself, are strictly for decorative purposes and would not allow you to see the damage in order for you to continue to monitor the problem.
There is no way to stop the rusting window well, so it will continue to worsen, to the point where it is in danger of collapsing, causing you more headaches and financial burden. Window well liners can also retain moisture and elements which increases the rate at which the well rusts, so we don’t recommend using them at all.
Another consideration when looking to replace your wells is the surrounding areas…
Is the window well encased in cement or a deck? Is there an AC unit nearby? What about trees, bushes, and other landscaping? Concerned about a sprinkler system? Basement Windows of Denver by Kruse Construction has experienced crew members and staff to help you deal with any possible obstacles. It is not uncommon for us to experience these types of issues, so rest assured you are in good hands!
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Basement Window Well Replacement
How much does it cost to replace a window well?
The cost to replace a window well typically ranges from $1,200 to $3,000, with many projects averaging around $2,200. Cost varies depending on the size and depth of the well, access to the installation area, and the type of window well system being installed.
Do rusted window wells need to be replaced?
Yes, rusted window wells should be replaced. Over time, older steel window wells can deteriorate and lose their structural strength, which may allow soil to collapse into the well or create safety concerns around the foundation or worse case scenario breaking through the window and damaging your basement.
Rusted window wells are a common item noted on home inspection reports, particularly in newer homes. Replacing the window well helps restore proper support around the basement window and improves the appearance and safety of the installation.
Why is my window well rusting?
Rusted window wells are actually a common issue, especially in homes built in the last couple of decades. In many cases, corrosion develops where the window well is attached to the foundation. When different metal components come into contact in the presence of moisture, a process called electrolysis can occur, which accelerates rust and deterioration over time.
Corrosion often begins on the soil side of the window well, where it is not easily visible. Because the damage starts behind the well, it can be much more advanced than it appears by the time rust becomes noticeable from the inside.
This is a common issue in many suburban homes throughout the Denver metro area and is frequently noted during home inspections when the metal begins to weaken or separate from the foundation.
Do you need a permit to replace a window well?
In many cases, replacing an existing window well with a similar size well does not require a permit, since there won’t be any structural or footprint changes. Permit requirements can vary depending on the city and the scope of the project.
For projects involving egress windows or structural changes to the foundation, permits and structural engineer drawings are required to ensure the installation meets local building codes and safety standards, which occurred when your home was first built. Since we are just replacing a damaged component, there is typically no need for a permit and inspection process.
Because requirements can vary between municipalities, and their guidelines often change over time, we can help homeowners determine whether a permit is needed.
How soon can I have my window well replaced?
The average lead time to replace a window well is 1-2 weeks. According to Colorado law, the dig site must have the utilities marked by “811” before we begin, so the soonest we, or any company, can get it scheduled is 3 days. We have found that time is of the essence when people need window well replacements so we have devised a way to help you expedite the process without sacrificing quality or efficiency.
Do rusted window wells need to be replaced during a home sale?
Yes. Rusted or deteriorating window wells frequently appear on home inspection reports, and buyers and sellers often need a written quote quickly for negotiation purposes. It’s commonly overlooked until the sale of the home, but since there is no way to fix the issue besides replacement, it must be done eventually to prevent catastrophic damage as it will eventually corrode enough to collapse, which can cause thousands of dollars in repair and clean-up.
We regularly work with homeowners, real estate agents, and inspectors to provide prompt, personalized estimates for window well replacement or egress window upgrades.
Our quotes are based on a careful evaluation of the existing window well condition, surrounding grading, and foundation details so all parties involved have a clear understanding of the scope of work and expected cost. Because we specialize in basement windows and window wells, we can typically provide accurate same-day estimates to help keep real estate transactions moving forward.
Can a rusted window well be replaced without replacing the window?
In most cases, yes. As long as the existing basement window is still functional and meets code requirements, a rusted or deteriorating window well can often be replaced without replacing the window itself very easily.
How long do window wells typically last?
If properly installed, steel window wells should last for decades. Some things that can contribute to their lifespan are soil conditions, landscaping, grading, moisture exposure, and exposure to sudden fluctuations of harsh elements.
At Basement Windows of Denver, we install high-quality window wells designed for long-term durability. That’s why we provide a lifetime warranty on every window well installation. We guarantee the wells will last for as long as you own your home, or we will replace them free of charge.
COMPANY
Basement Windows of Denver
Lakewood, Colorado 80226
(303) 955-2969
© 2021 Basement Windows of Denver
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