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how long do galvanized window wells last

by Fernando Mills Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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According to the American Galvanizers Association, you can expect galvanized steel your window well is made of to last for an average of 75 years, depending on the soil conditions in your area.

Full Answer

Why choose a galvanized steel window well?

Thanks to its ribbed construction and rolled top, the small window well has enhanced resistance against caving in. The stone look galvanized window wells are ideal when you want the strength of a one-piece galvanized steel window well.

What is the warranty on a galvanized metal well?

All our galvanized metal wells (economy and heavy-duty series included) come with a 30-year warranty. If you are not sure as to the size and shape of the well you need, please, call us. Our experts will help you choose the right item. * Gauge – the thickness of the metal that the well is made of.

What is a window well used for?

A window well is a U-shaped, ribbed metal or plastic product available in most home hardware stores. It’s designed to fit around basement windows, providing a space between the window and the surrounding earth to allow light into sub-grade structures. In some cases, window wells also provide an emergency point of egress.

What is the best material for a window well?

Standard galvanized steel is the most widespread material for metal window wells and window well extensions. We provide all shapes in a wide variety of sizes, from vent sized to extra-large sized egress wells in varying heights. Window Well Experts have one of the largest portfolios of window wells in the USA.

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Do galvanized window wells rust?

And this current happens when two metals that are not alike (your water well, which is made from galvanized metal, and rebar or steel window buck) are touching or in close contact. The first metal to decompose is your water well, which is why it's rusting.

What is the best material for a window well?

Corrugated steel wells are the most common option. They are galvanized to prevent rust and are very durable. Heavy-duty plastic wells are the most durable option when compared to traditional steel wells. This material is designed to never rust or dent, ensuring they will last for years.

What kind of metal are window wells made of?

galvanized steelStandard galvanized steel is the most widespread material for metal window wells and window well extensions.

How long do window well covers last?

15 yearsHow long will the window well covers last? WindowWellExperts.com manufactures our “Unbreakable” clear plastic window well covers using special U.V. Formula to protect the covers for up to 15 years in direct sunlight against yellowing, fading, or becoming brittle.

Should I put rocks in my window well?

Backfilling is a vital part of most egress window well installations. After digging out the hole to install your well, you fill it with gravel or broken rock chunks to support the window well itself, improve drainage and prevent damaging frost heaves in the winter.

What gauge metal are window wells?

18 gauge galvanized steelSquare window wells are 18 gauge galvanized steel that is guaranteed for 30 years. All measurements are inside dimensions, and these wells have a 4″ radius on the corners.

What are the different types of window wells?

The Different Types of Window WellsTo Be Precise... The window well is the hole dug in front of a basement window. ... Plastic. Plastic has the benefit of being cheap and relatively easy to install. ... Steel. Corrugated steel is tough, strong, and has a cool industrial appearance. ... Fiberglass. ... Concrete.

How do I choose a window well?

Measure the window's length and width, then add six inches to the width and eight inches to the length for the well's dimensions. The well itself should be deep enough for the window well wall you've picked out and plan to install.

What is another name for window well?

You may have heard the term “egress” when talking about window wells and wondered what exactly it is. Generally speaking, egress window well covers would be the same thing as any other window well cover. An egress window is one that is simply large enough to get out of in case of emergency.

Are plastic window wells any good?

These covers are completely safe and they 100% prevent things (or little ones) from falling in the basement window well. Plastic window well covers allow light in so that your already dark basement doesn't lose one bit of the sun. Plastic basement window covers also deter intruders — which is always a good thing.

How much weight can a window well cover hold?

In addition to keeping out dirt and debris, the covers also prevent people from accidentally falling into the window well. Sturdy and durable, Premier well covers can withstand up to 500 lbs of weight (not designed for heavy foot traffic).

Should you cover window wells in winter?

After melting, the water can seep into the basement and promote mold growth. Cleaning around the window well can be dangerous, especially when it's covered by snow and ice. That means you need to make sure to cover your window well before every winter.

Why use galvanized window wells?

They are a more affordable way to add much-needed light and ventilation to your basement. Thanks to their versatile shapes and sizes, you can find literally any shape & size of galvanized window well.

How far should a small window well extend?

Foundation vent wells are used to prevent dirt, water and debris from obstructing basement ventilation. Your small window well should extend at least 2″ on either side of the foundation vent.

What material is used for window wells?

Standard galvanized steel is the most widespread material for metal window wells and window well extensions. We provide all shapes in a wide variety of sizes, from vent sized to extra-large sized egress wells in varying heights.

Is a window well egress code compliant?

Window wells with projections 24 and 30 inches are not egress code compliant. We are America’s #1 window well manufacturer and would love to help you with your project. Get in touch with our team at 1-888-650-9355 or fill our form to request your free online quote.

What is a window well?

Let’s start with the basics. A window well is a U-shaped, ribbed metal or plastic product available in most home hardware stores. It’s designed to fit around basement windows, providing a space between the window and the surrounding earth to allow light into sub-grade structures.

Why do we need to maintain window wells?

The primary concern for maintaining window wells relates to debris (most often leaves and other organic matter) that falls into the well , clogging the drainage system. This can result in a back up of water, which exerts pressure against the glass.

Why do I need to check my window wells in winter?

During winter months, check your window wells to ensure that compacted snow or ice isn’t blocking your drainage system. Soil enters the well and plugs the drain: Soil can enter the well and cause problems if the window well is the wrong size. If it’s too narrow, soil may push in from the sides.

Why do you put a plastic well in a window?

Once drainage has been taken care of , the plastic or steel window well is placed in the hole to prevent the earth from falling back in. The remaining space surrounding the window well is filled with dirt which should be compacted and graded so that water drains away from, not towards, the window.

How deep is a window well?

Usually, this hole is dug to a depth of around 1 foot beneath the bottom of the window sill . Before the window well itself is installed, it’s important to consider drainage.

What happens if a well is too short?

If it’s too narrow, soil may push in from the sides. Or if the well is too short, water may wash over the sides, carrying soil with it, and plugging the drain. Remember that window wells are available in all shapes and sizes so be sure to measure your window and consult an expert before installation.

Can a window well be placed against a basement wall?

Window wells should always fit tightly against the basement wall. Water on the floor beneath the basement window: To determine whether drainage is the problem, run water from a hose into the well to see how quickly it drains away. The water level may rise above its base, but shouldn’t approach the bottom of the window.

How often should I replace window wells?

You may have to replace them every couple of years, which can end up costing more than their higher quality counterparts. High quality window wells can last years, or even decades with proper maintenance and care.

What is a window well?

What are Window Wells? Window wells are holes in the ground that connect the basement to the outside world. Some people also refer to them as window dug-outs, as dirt and debris are removed from the area where basement windows will go.

Why do we need window wells in basements?

Window wells emerged as a way to provide an extra escape route in case of fires, and they also provide natural light to rooms within the basement.

Why put off window well replacement?

Putting off window well replacements can allow dirt, rocks, and water to collapse inward, getting rid of your basement’s source of natural light, and cutting off an escape route in case of an emergency.

Do window wells need to be replaced?

If your window wells are reinforced with metal or plastic sheets that contain cracks or holes, or they appear to be rusty and dissolved, it is very important that you get your window wells replaced as soon as possible.

Fiberglass With Class

Fiberglass has just as many options as metal window wells, but also comes with its own unique benefits. They’re protective, and keep out water, dirt, animals, and roots. Fiberglass is also exceedingly durable and lightweight, and installation is a breeze. One major difference between metal and fiberglass window wells is the price.

Which Is Better?

We’ve addressed metal vs. fiberglass window wells and asked what’s the difference? Well, it’s less about their differences than how one can better serve your particular needs. Both will keep your window well free from the hassle of leaks, invasive varmints, and debris, but in the end, it all comes down to which suits your needs and style better.

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1.What Are Galvanized Window Wells? - Windowell …

Url:https://www.windowellexpressions.com/what-are-galvanized-window-wells/

3 hours ago  · my house is 30 yrs. old. how long are those galvanized window wells supposed to last? (they're galvanized so maybe they should last forever?) also,one of the wells,right in front of the house,in plain view,was put in crooked so one side is probably 4 in. higher than the other. the well cover that's on there now looks like crap since the wall is brick and the cover goes down at …

2.Metal Window Wells | Extremely Durable Galvanized Steel …

Url:https://windowwellexperts.com/window-wells/metal-window-wells/

4 hours ago  · According to the American Galvanizers Association, you can expect galvanized steel your window well is made of to last for an average of 75 years, depending on the soil conditions in your area. You may also come across the term G90 galvanized steel, which speaks to the thickness of the actual coating that is applied during the hot-dip galvanizing process.

3.Window Wells | How They Work, Maintenance, and More

Url:https://www.squareone.ca/resource-centres/getting-to-know-your-home/window-wells

33 hours ago  · The Cons of Galvanized Window Wells. One of the biggest cons to installing galvanized window wells is that they are not very attractive. They are plain to look at, and can even be a downright eyesore! Another con is that in some cases, depending on the size and depth of your metal window well, the metal may not be enough to hold back the ground.

4.Window Well Replacement - Welcome to Window Well …

Url:https://windowwellguardian.com/window-well-replacement/

33 hours ago  · Galvanized window wells are the most standard window well option on the market. They have everything you’d want in a window well; they’re durable, they last for up to 30 years, and they don’t rust. When it comes to window wells, these are the total package.

5.Metal VS Fiberglass Window Wells, What's The Difference?

Url:https://windowwellsupply.com/metal-vs-fiberglass-window-wells-whats-the-difference/

32 hours ago  · Made from rust-resistant galvanized steel Suitable for all metal window wells SMALL WINDOW WELLS: Foundation Vent Wells (Crawlspace Square, Semi-Circle, and Elongated Wells) LARGE WINDOW WELLS: Large Egress and Non-Egress Compliant Shapes available: elongated, half-circle, U-shaped 30 Year Warranty View More PhotosGet a Free Estimate

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