Window wells are recessed exterior excavations that allow natural light into basement windows that would otherwise be below ground level. They are typically semi-circular or rectangular shaped and installed directly in front of basement windows. Window well covers are lids that go over the top opening of the window well to prevent debris, animals, and rain or snow from falling into the window well space. But should these protective covers have vents to allow airflow? There are good arguments on both sides of this question.
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Reasons Window Well Covers Should Be Vented
Here are some of the main reasons why having vents in window well covers is beneficial:
Allows Airflow to Prevent Mold/Mildew
One of the prime reasons experts recommend using vented window well covers is to allow airflow. While window wells allow basement windows to be above ground, they can also create a confined humid space between the window and cover. Without proper airflow, this stagnant area is prone to mold, mildew and bacterial growth which can lead to decaying window frames, unpleasant odors, and potential health hazards for those with allergies or respiratory issues if the spores spread indoors.
Vented covers allow fresh dry air to flow into the window well space while venting out damp stale air. This helps prevent the moist conditions that breed mold and mildew. Home improvement sites often recommend looking for covers with vents or grates to allow this beneficial airflow.
Allows Water Drainage
Another reason vented covers are advisable is they allow rainwater drainage. As a recessed area next to the foundation, window wells can collect rain runoff or melting snow that seeps in between the window and the soil. Vented covers allow this water to drain out through the vents before it can pool at the base of the well and leak into the basement or damage the window.
Solid covers tend to trap moisture inside the window well, encouraging leaks, flooding, and damage over time as water rots the sill and the bottom of the window frame. Proper drainage is key to prevent this deterioration and vented covers promote needed drainage.
Promotes Air Circulation for Comfort
Vented window well covers also encourage beneficial air circulation for comfort. The vents allow fresh outdoor air to come into the window well space and circulate inside through the open basement window. This movement of air helps keep the space feeling fresh and prevents a stuffy, stagnant feeling.
Proper ventilation and air exchange also helps keep basement air quality healthy and prevents a musty smell. So for comfort and pleasantness, vented covers are the way to go.
Reasons Window Well Covers Should Not Be Vented
On the other side of the debate, here are some reasons why window well covers may be better off without vents:
Prevents Pests from Entering
One of the main cases against ventilation in window well covers is that it allows easy access for pests. Unwanted visitors like spiders, centipedes, mice, and snakes can more easily enter the window well space through open vents. This can be disturbing for homeowners and a solid cover better blocks these nuisance animals from getting in.
Some covers come with ventilation grates that have very fine screens to allow airflow while keeping pests out. But most basic vented covers have openings large enough for determined insects and rodents to squeeze through. So homeowners dealing with recurring pest problems may prefer a solid, non-vented cover.
Insulates Better Against Temperature Changes
Solid covers also provide better insulation against outdoor temperature swings. Unvented covers will insulate the window well area against cold drafts in winter and help keep it cooler in summer sun by not allowing direct airflow. This can help cut down on energy costs for heating and cooling as less outdoor air flows through the basement window into the living space.
Homeowners in extreme climates may find non-vented covers provide welcome insulation against icy winter or sweltering summer weather. The still sealed airspace acts as an insulating buffer against temperature changes.
Keeps Out Blowing Snow, Dust, and Debris
Window well covers without vents also protect better against blowing elements like snow, dust, and debris. Openings in vented covers allow snowflakes, dirt, leaves, pollen, and other objects to enter the window well space when caught in heavy winds. This can allow buildup of debris that blocks sunlight to the basement window.
By presenting a solid, unbroken barrier, non-vented covers keep the window well area clearer and prevent outside particulate matter from clouding or dirtying the glass. Homeowners who live in areas with frequent wind storms and dirt blown in from surrounding open land often choose solid covers to block these intrusions.
Key Factors to Consider
When deciding between vented and unvented covers, there are a few important factors to take into account:
Climate Conditions
Consider your local climate. Hot, humid areas are prone to more mold and mildew growth so the ability to ventilate to prevent this is important. Cold windy climates may benefit more from an insulated solid cover. Evaluate ventilation needs based on typical weather patterns where you live.
Window Frame Quality
The quality of your window frames also affects venting needs. Older wood-framed windows are more prone to rot with trapped moisture and need more airflow. Newer vinyl-framed windows resist moisture damage better so ventilation may be less crucial. Factor the window’s susceptibility to water damage when deciding on cover vents.
Pest Pressures
Think about how problematic pests are on your property when considering vents. In rural settings near open land, unscreened vents can allow more pest intrusions. But in urban settings further from insect and rodent habitat, ventilation may be less of an issue. Weigh the pest risks against the benefits of vents.
Orientation of Window Well
The orientation of the window well also impacts ventilation needs. Wells on the sunny side of the home get much more heat and daylight exposure so benefit more from venting to prevent overheating and stuffiness. Shady well locations are less prone to heat/moisture buildup so solid covers may suffice.
Use of Basement
Also factor how you use your basement into the decision. For frequently occupied living spaces like recreation rooms, venting to promote better air quality and comfort may be worthwhile. But for rarely accessed spaces like storage rooms, pests and debris intrusion may be more important to block with a solid cover. Prioritize venting if you spend a lot of time down there.
Recommended Materials for Vented Covers
If you opt to go with a vented window well cover, here are good materials choices:
Plastic Covers
| Pros | Cons |
| – Economical | – Can warp/bend over time |
| – Lightweight | – Less durable |
| – Easy to modify with vent holes | – Can crack/discolor |
Plastic well covers are inexpensive, lightweight and easy to install. Plastic lends itself to being drilled with custom vent holes for drainage and airflow. However, thinner plastic can warp out of shape over time and may need occasional replacing. Look for sturdy polycarbonate plastic rated for long life.
Steel Covers
| Pros | Cons |
| – Very durable | – Prone to rusting |
| – Long-lasting | – Can conduct heat/cold |
| – Withstands impact | – Harder to modify with vents |
Steel covers provide maximum durability, outlasting plastic models many times over. Quality steel has unparalleled strength and impact resistance. But uncoated steel corrodes from moisture exposure. Seek hot-dipped galvanized or stainless steel covers or budget for new paint every 2-3 years to combat rust.
Wood Covers
| Pros | Cons |
| – Natural appearance | – Requires refinishing over time |
| – Easy to cut vents into | – Can warp/split from moisture |
| – Good insulator | – Not as durable as plastic/steel |
Painted wood covers provide a natural look and excellent insulation against heat/cold. Wood also makes drilling custom vent holes simple. But wood tends to warp and crack over time and needs refinishing. Use naturally rot-resistant cedar or redwood and check condition annually.
Conclusion
Overall, vented window well covers have distinct advantages for airflow, drainage, comfort and preventing moisture buildup and associated problems like mold growth. But in certain situations, the pest protection, insulation and windborne debris blocking of solid covers may take priority.
Take stock of the climate, pest pressures, window construction and window well location when deciding between vented or non-vented models. For most homeowners, vented covers benefit the health and comfort of basement spaces worth the small tradeoff in insulation and pest exclusion that non-vented covers provide. Carefully weigh these factors before choosing the best covers and vents for your window wells.