Can you cover an egress window well?

An egress window well allows basement windows to meet code requirements for emergency egress and ventilation. While some homeowners may wish to cover the window well for aesthetic or safety reasons, this is generally not recommended as it can obstruct the egress route and prevent the window well from properly draining water.

What is an egress window well?

An egress window well is a dugout area around a basement window that brings the window opening up to ground level. It allows the window to meet building code requirements for emergency egress by providing an accessible escape route from the basement.

Egress window wells must meet specific size requirements set by building codes. For example, the International Residential Code (IRC) requires egress window wells to have a minimum horizontal area of 9 square feet with a minimum horizontal projection and width of 36 inches. This provides sufficient space for a person to climb out through the window in an emergency.

In addition to allowing emergency egress, egress window wells also provide ventilation and prevent rainwater from pouring directly into basement windows. The well projects outward to move the window opening away from the below-grade foundation wall, allowing air circulation and light into the basement. Drainage material at the base directs water away from the foundation.

Can you cover an egress window well?

Generally, egress window wells should not be covered or obstructed in any way. Building codes prohibit covering window wells because it impedes emergency escape and rescues. A covered window well may also be subject to moisture buildup, wood rot, and mold growth without proper ventilation.

However, some homeowners wish to cover window wells for aesthetics or safety reasons. Some ways homeowners attempt to cover egress window wells include:

• Placing flower beds, shrubs, or mulch over the window well
• Installing a wrought iron or wire mesh cover
• Putting wooden planks or a solid lid over the well

If a homeowner wants to cover a window well, the best option is to install a polycarbonate plastic cover or window well egress cover. This allows light into the basement while preventing falls. The cover must be easily removable from the inside without special tools or knowledge, as required by code. Screens, grates, and other covers that require the use of keys or tools during an emergency are not permitted.

Building code requirements for egress window wells

The IRC provides specific requirements for the size, dimensions, and features of egress window wells:

• Minimum horizontal area of 9 square feet (exception for grade floor openings)
• Minimum horizontal projection and width of 36 inches
• Must allow window to fully open and provide minimum accessible net clear opening for egress
• Maximum depth of 44 inches from window sill to bottom of well (deeper wells require ladders)
• Constructed of corrosion-resistant materials (masonry, concrete, metal, plastic)
• Provide drainage from well

The IRC prohibits covers that can hinder egress and states:

“Window well covers shall permit the emergency escape and rescue opening to be fully opened. Ladders or steps shall be permitted to encroach a maximum of 6 inches into the required dimensions of the window well.”

This means any covering over the window well cannot prevent it from being fully opened from the inside. Other codes may have additional requirements – always check local building codes for specifics.

Options for covering egress window wells

If a homeowner wants to cover a window well for appearance or safety reasons, here are some code-approved options:

Plastic window well covers

Clear polycarbonate plastic covers allow light into the basement while preventing falls. The plastic is durable and protects the well from accumulation of debris or snow. Plastic covers must be readily removable from the inside without keys or tools.

Window well grates

Metal or plastic grates maintain visibility and ventilation while providing fall protection. Grates are installed using removable or breakaway hardware for emergency egress. Like plastic covers, grates must not require keys, tools, or special knowledge to exit.

Plant covers

Low-growing plants, vines, or shrubs can camouflage the window well without blocking egress. Care must be taken to keep plantings trimmed and thin enough for passage through the well. Plants should not contact or grow on the window.

Decorative fencing

Ornamental fences around window wells can prevent falls while maintaining visibility and ventilation. Fences must have large openings and allow the window to fully open without obstruction. A removable section may be needed for emergency access.

Window well steps

Adding stairs or a ladder inside deeper window wells still allows coverage options like grates or plants. The steps just facilitate egress through the well itself according to code requirements.

Safety tips for covered egress window wells

If covering an egress window well, here are some important safety guidelines:

• Check local building codes for all requirements in your area
• Only use code-approved window well covers that do not obstruct egress
• Covers must be removable from the inside without special knowledge, keys, or tools
• Provide proper drainage and ventilation to prevent moisture problems
• Inspect plastic covers and grates regularly for damage and clarity
• Keep plants and foliage trimmed away from window and egress route
• Ensure proper circulation through decorative fences or rails
• Practice using the egress route through the covered window well

Improper covers that fully enclose an egress window well may appear attractive but can be dangerous in an emergency. Always consult your local building department before covering openings that are designed for escape and rescue. With careful selection of materials and proper installation, window wells can be stylishly concealed while still meeting the building code.

Conclusion

Covering an egress window well is generally not permitted, as it obstructs the emergency escape and rescue opening required by code. Homeowners who wish to cover window wells for appearance or safety should use removable covers like plastic panels or grates that do not impede egress. Covers and steps inside the well must allow occupants to fully open the window and exit without special tools or keys. With careful attention to building codes and safety, basement egress windows can be creatively covered while still functioning properly for emergency escape.