Basement Window Wells: Safety, Natural Light and Ventilation

Basement window wells are perfect for allowing a little sunshine into the lower level of a home. Take these steps to ensure proper installation or preservation of an existing window well.

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By: Caroline Shannon-Karasik

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A basement window well can be a welcome source of light. Here's how to let in a little sunshine — and keep your basement secure and ventilated.

Window wells are made from a variety of materials, including metal, wood and concrete (concrete is the most durable). A new basement window well is most often a do-it-yourself home project with the most difficult part being the digging of the hole.

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Pre-existing window wells require thorough maintenance to ensure outdoor dirt, debris and water do not enter the space. Take extra precaution by using a window well cover to protect your basement from water damage.

Basement windows can be an important egress system in the event of an emergency. But if you can get out, that means intruders can get in. Look for locking systems, from a simple window bar to a whole-home alarm, to protect your safety and security.

Next Up

Interior Basement Drainage Systems

Learn about the different systems that can waterproof your basement including French drains and sump pumps. Read on to find out how these interior drainage systems work, which type is appropriate for your home, whether it is a DIY task or you need a pro, and about how much it costs.

How to Waterproof a Basement Interior and How Much It Will Cost

Waterproofing your unfinished basement is good for the health of your home and for you. Learn how to identify the cause of a wet basement and the best way to fix it.

How to Build Finished Walls in a Basement

Looking to finish your basement and turn it into extra living space? Learn the steps and costs needed to turn cinderblock walls into finished walls.

How Much Value Does a Finished Basement Add?

A finished basement is a home improvement project you get to enjoy twice: for the added living space, and again at resale when you're paid back for much of the project.

How to Re-Cover Metal Columns in Wood

If the columns in your home are all function and no style, then dress them up. Learn how to install a simple wood wrap to turn boring columns into cool architectural features.

2024: Basement Kitchen Design Ideas and Construction Costs

Building a kitchen in a basement takes some special planning and considerations. Here’s what you need to know and what you might expect to pay.

2024: The Best Types of Basement Flooring and How Much They Cost

Explore today's choices for finished basement floors including luxury vinyl tile, hardwood, carpet, porcelain tile, specially dyed concrete and yes, even laminates.

How to Prevent a Flooded Basement and How Much It Will Cost to Fix

Waterproofing a basement can prevent structural damage, improve air quality, lower utility bills and make a finished basement a possibility. Learn how common water problems occur, how to fix them and how much you might expect to pay for remedies such as sealing, foundation repair and regrading your landscape.

How Much Does It Cost to Finish a Basement?

By increasing living space without adding square footage, a basement remodel can be a budget-friendly option if a home extension is not an option. Learn what goes into finishing a basement, who can help and what you might expect to pay.

How to Replace a Window

When it's time to replace an outdated, inefficient window, it can be hard to know where to start, so we’ve got everything you need to know to get the job done.

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