What can I use for window well covers?

When it comes to selecting window well covers, homeowners have several options to choose from depending on their needs and budget. Window well covers are an important part of any home as they help protect the window well area from debris, pests, and weather damage. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the most popular types of window well covers, their key features, pros and cons, and prices to help you determine which option may work best for your home.

Plastic Window Well Covers

Plastic window well covers are a lightweight, budget-friendly option made from polycarbonate or PVC plastic. Here are some key considerations for this type of cover:

• Pros:
  • Inexpensive – plastic covers range from $50-$150 on average
  • Lightweight and easy to install
  • Transparent to allow light
  • Withstands weather and resists corrosion
• Cons:
  • Can warp, discolor or become brittle over time
  • Not as durable as other materials
  • May not withstand impact damage
  • Can develop condensation

Overall, plastic covers provide an affordable and user-friendly option, but they have a shorter lifespan than other materials and may need replacing every 4-6 years.

Best Plastic Window Well Cover Models

Some of the top picks in plastic window well covers include:

• Bilco Polycarbonate Cover – $90
• Egress Pros Plastic Cover – $60
• Frost King PVC Cover – $75

Steel Window Well Covers

Steel covers provide maximum security and protection for window wells. Here are the main pros and cons:

• Pros:
  • Very durable and long-lasting
  • Withstands impact damage
  • Provides greatest weather protection
  • Made of galvanized or stainless steel
• Cons:
  • More expensive – $200-$500 on average
  • Heavier to install
  • Vulnerable to rust if not galvanized
  • Not transparent

Steel covers are a worthwhile investment for high security and lifelong protection, although the cost is higher.

Best Steel Window Well Cover Models

Recommended steel window well cover options include:

• Well-Cover Secure Steel Cover – $249
• Boyle’s Basement Steel Cover – $475
• Protector Steel Guard Cover – $329

Wood Window Well Covers

For a natural look, wood covers can blend in with landscaping while protecting window wells. Considerations include:

• Pros:
  • Matches other wood landscape features
  • More decorative option
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Sturdy protection
• Cons:
  • More expensive – $300-$600 on average
  • Heavy and may require professional installation
  • Can warp or decay over time if untreated
  • Not transparent

Wood covers bring elegance but require proper sealing and maintenance. Cedar and redwood are popular choices.

Best Wood Window Well Cover Models

Leading wood window well cover options:

• Permaview Redwood Cover – $329
• Forever Redwood Cedar Cover – $598
• Wellsider Western Red Cedar Cover – $479

Corrugated Metal Window Well Covers

Corrugated metal covers provide a middle ground option between affordability and security:

• Pros:
  • Durable galvanized steel construction
  • Corrugated shape adds strength
  • Low maintenance
  • Cost effective – $150-$300 range
• Cons:
  • Not transparent
  • Prone to rust over time
  • Not as decorative as wood
  • Can sustain dents

These covers resist impact while providing long-term protection at a moderate price point.

Best Corrugated Metal Window Well Cover Models

Top choices in corrugated metal covers include:

• Easy Window Well Corrugated Steel Cover – $179
• BOWA Corrugated Galvanized Cover – $219
• Basement Backup HD Steel Cover – $289

Plexiglass Window Well Covers

Plexiglass, or acrylic, covers allow light transmission at an affordable cost:

• Pros:
  • Inexpensive at $75-$150
  • Transparent for sunlight
  • Easy DIY installation
  • Withstands weather and impact
• Cons:
  • Prone to scratching
  • Can become brittle over time
  • Not as durable long-term
  • Higher UV light damage risk

Plexiglass is affordable and easy to install yourself, but scratches easily and needs replacing every 4-5 years.

Best Plexiglass Window Well Cover Models

Highly rated plexiglass window well covers include:

• Well-Cover Acrylic Cover – $99
• Basement Window Defender Cover – $125
• Clearguard Plexiglass Cover – $140

Polycarbonate Window Well Covers

Polycarbonate covers provide transparent protection at a higher durability than standard plastic or plexiglass:

• Pros:
  • Impact resistant material
  • Transparency allows sunlight
  • Longer-lasting than other clear covers
  • Withstands weathering
• Cons:
  • Higher cost than basic plastic – $120-$250 range
  • Still prone to scratching
  • Can become brittle and fade over time
  • Requires fastening system

Polycarbonate strikes an effective balance between durability, light transmission, and cost.

Best Polycarbonate Window Well Cover Models

Leading polycarbonate window well cover options:

• Glacier Window Well Polycarbonate Cover – $179
• Basement Defenders Polycarbonate Cover – $219
• WellGuard Max Polycarbonate Cover – $249

Window Well Cover Comparison

To summarize key differences, here is a comparison table of window well cover types:

Window Well Cover Type	Material	Durability	Transparency	Avg. Cost
Plastic	PVC or Polycarbonate Plastic	4-6 years	Transparent	$50-$150
Steel	Galvanized or Stainless Steel	10-15 years	Not Transparent	$200-$500
Wood	Cedar, Redwood	10-12 years	Not Transparent	$300-$600
Corrugated Metal	Galvanized Steel	7-10 years	Not Transparent	$150-$300
Plexiglass	Acrylic	4-5 years	Transparent	$75-$150
Polycarbonate	Polycarbonate Plastic	7-10 years	Transparent	$120-$250

This comparison can help weigh the tradeoffs of cost, durability, appearance, and transparency for your specific needs.

Key Considerations For Choosing a Window Well Cover

Here are some important tips when selecting a window well cover:

• Measure the dimensions of your window well carefully to ensure a proper fit. An ill-fitting cover will not provide adequate protection.
• Consider your climate and weather conditions. Frequent snow, storms, or rain call for the strongest sealing protection.
• Review the manufacturer’s product specifications. Look for impact resistance ratings, load capacity, and warranty terms.
• Plan for long-term durability rather than the lowest cost option if this window well gets heavy use.
• Choose steel or wood covers for high security properties or areas with potential risk of damage or break-ins.
• Select transparent polycarbonate or plexiglass covers if preserving natural light in the window well is a priority.
• Determine whether you plan to DIY install or hire a professional. Some covers require more complex fastening.
• Pick a color or finish that blends with your home exterior, landscaping, and overall aesthetic.

Taking these factors into account will help you select the ideal window well cover for your specific home and needs.

How To Install Window Well Covers

Once you’ve chosen the right type of cover, here are some general installation steps:

1. Clean and prepare the window well area by removing any dirt or debris.
2. Measure the inside dimensions carefully and verify them against the cover size.
3. Place the window well cover into the opening to test the fit. It should fit snugly without large gaps.
4. Mark and drill any necessary holes for the mounting hardware, bolts, or fasteners if required.
5. Apply caulk, sealant, or adhesive around the edges and mounting locations as needed depending on the cover type.
6. Attach the window well cover securely in place based on the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. For extra insulation, apply foam backing rods around the edges before fastening the cover.
8. Seal any remaining gaps with additional caulk or spray foam insulation for optimal energy efficiency.
9. Check that the cover is aligned properly and opens/closes easily if hinged.

With the right tools and safety precautions, many standard window well covers can be self-installed. However, larger steel or wood covers may require professional expertise.

Conclusion

Safeguarding your window wells with secure, durable covers is an essential home maintenance task. Plastic, steel, wood, corrugated metal, plexiglass, and polycarbonate covers all have unique advantages and disadvantages to weigh. Being informed on the different material options, costs, weather protection, and ease of installation will ensure you select the optimal cover type for your needs and budget. With the right window well cover in place, your home will be better protected from damage and the elements for years to come.