As the leaves change colors and fall from the trees, it’s important to start preparing your home for the upcoming winter season. One area often overlooked is the window wells surrounding your basement windows. If not properly maintained, these can quickly become filled with leaves, debris, and even water.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss some easy and effective ways how to keep leaves out of window wells and prevent any potential damage or clogged drains.
Can You Keep Leaves Out Of Window Wells?
Clearing leaves out of window wells can be a tedious and frustrating task for any homeowner. Not only are they unsightly, but they can also cause damage if left unattended. Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to keep leaves out of your window wells.
One common solution is to install window well covers, which come in various materials such as metal or plastic. These covers prevent leaves and debris from falling into the well and require minimal maintenance. Another option is regularly cleaning out leaves and debris using a small handheld rake or vacuum.
Whichever method you choose, keeping your window wells clear of leaves is important for maintaining the safety and aesthetic of your home.
Why Should You Keep Leaves Out Of Window Wells?
As autumn approaches, we marvel at the breathtaking beauty of fall leaves, painting nature’s canvas in warm, vibrant hues. However, when those leaves start to fall, they can create a big problem in window wells. While leaves may seem harmless, they can quickly accumulate and clog up your window wells.
This blockage can cause serious issues, such as water buildup or serious damage to your window wells. Moreover, piled-up leaves in window wells can attract pests, such as insects and rodents, which can wreak havoc on your home. Therefore, keeping leaves out of your window wells is essential to prevent the accumulation of leaves and avoid these unpleasant situations.
7 Ways to Follow on How to Keep Leaves out Of Window Wells
1. Clean the Window Wells Regularly
The simplest way to prevent leave buildup is by regularly cleaning your window wells. This should be done at least once a month during the fall season and after any major wind or rainstorms. Use a small broom or handheld vacuum to remove any debris and dispose of it properly. If there is any standing water, be sure to drain it. This will prevent leaves from becoming saturated and blocking the drain.
2. Install Window Well Covers
Installing covers is one of the most effective ways to keep leaves out of your window wells. These come in various materials and styles, such as plastic, mesh, and metal. Window well covers also provide protection against animals and debris and can improve insulation and energy efficiency. Most covers can be easily installed by simply snapping or screwing them onto the well’s frame.
3. Trim Any Overhanging Branches
Another way to prevent leaves from falling into your window wells is by trimming any overhanging branches or plants surrounding your home. This can be done with a pair of pruning shears or hired professionals. By removing any potential sources of leaves and debris, you’ll drastically reduce the amount of maintenance required for your window wells.
4. Use a Leaf Blower
If you have a lot of trees or simply don’t have the time to clean your window wells manually, a leaf blower can be a helpful tool. Use a low setting to blow leaves away from the wells and into a compost pile or leaf bag. Wear eye and ear protection, and work from a ladder if necessary. This method can also clear out any existing leaves before installing covers.
5. Spread an Antimicrobial Coating
Another way to keep leaves out of window wells and reduce the need for cleaning is by spreading an antimicrobial coating on the surface. This can be done with a brush or spray bottle and will help inhibit the growth of mold and mildew.
It also has the added benefit of making your windows easier to clean in the future. Be sure to use a product designed specifically for window wells, and follow all manufacturer instructions for application and safety.
6. Place a Retaining Wall Around the Window Wells
For those looking for a more permanent solution, you can consider building a small retaining wall around your window wells. This will help keep leaves away from the well’s opening and reduce potential clogs. Be sure to use appropriate materials for the area, such as stone, brick, or concrete blocks.
7. Install a Drainage System
If your window wells tend to fill with water and debris after heavy rains, installing a drainage system can be an effective solution. This involves creating channels and trenches around the well to direct the water away from your home’s foundation and landscaping. Installing a sump pump may also be necessary to ensure the water is moved away quickly.
By following these tips, you can easily keep leaves out of window wells and reduce the need for regular maintenance. This will help protect your home from potential damage or clogs and make sure that your windows stay clear and ready for the winter season.
They can also enhance the overall appearance of your home’s outdoor areas, making it an even better place to enjoy the fall weather and changing colors of nature.
5 Considerations Things When You Need to Keep Leaves out Of Window Wells
1. Install a Window Well Cover
The best way to keep leaves and other debris out of window wells is to install a window well cover. Window well covers are designed to fit over the top of the window, creating a barrier preventing leaves and other debris from entering the well. The covers also help to keep animals and small children out of the well, making them an ideal safety feature.
2. Install Gutter Extensions
Another way to keep leaves out of your window wells is to install gutter extensions. Gutter extensions are designed to extend the length of your gutters so they can reach further away from your home, which helps prevent leaves and other debris from entering your window wells.
3. Clean Out Your Window Wells Regularly
Cleaning out your window wells regularly is another important step in keeping them free of leaves and other debris. It’s important to remove any leaves or debris accumulated in the well as soon as possible, as this will help prevent water from pooling in the bottom of the well, which can cause damage over time.
4. Trim Trees Around Your Home
Trimming trees around your home is another great way to reduce the amount of leaves that enter your window wells each year. By trimming branches near your home, you’ll be able to reduce the number of leaves that fall into your window wells during autumn when trees shed their foliage.
5. Use Leaf Blowers or Rakes To Remove Leaves From Window Wells
If you find yourself dealing with a lot of leaves in your window wells, it may be necessary to use leaf blowers or rakes to remove them quickly and efficiently. Leaf blowers are great for removing large amounts of leaves at once, while rakes can be used for more detailed work, such as removing smaller pieces of debris from hard-to-reach areas within the window well.
Benefits of Keep Leaves out Of Window Wells
Keeping leaves out of your window wells might seem insignificant, but doing so can bring many benefits to your home. Firstly, it’s important to note that clogged window wells can cause water damage to your home’s foundation. When leaves, dirt, and debris build up in the window wells, it can prevent water from draining out, leading to indoor flooding.
Secondly, clearing out the debris from your window wells can also prevent pests from making a home in them. Rodents and insects are attracted to dark, damp places, making window wells the perfect home. Lastly, clean window wells can enhance the beauty of your home.
With a clear view of the natural light pouring in from the outside, your basement can be transformed into a cozy living space. In short, maintaining clean window wells has both practical and aesthetic advantages that will benefit your home in the long run.
Some Common Mistakes People Make When Trying to Keep Leaves out Of Window Wells
Maintaining window wells can often be neglected, but it is crucial in removing unwanted debris such as leaves, dirt, and insects. However, some people make mistakes that can make the situation worse. For example, using a flimsy cover that the wind can easily blow off is ineffective at keeping leaves out.
Additionally, failing to clean the window well regularly can cause debris to build up and obstruct the drainage system. It’s important to remember that window wells serve an important purpose in your home, so it’s important to keep them clear and free of clutter. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can enjoy a clear view outside your window while protecting your home from potential water damage.
Conclusion
By following the tips outlined above, you can keep your window wells clear of leaves and debris, prevent any potential damage or clogged drains, and keep your home safe and dry. Remember to clean your wells regularly, install covers if possible, trim any overhanging branches, use a leaf blower if necessary, and seek professional help.
With a little effort and maintenance, you’ll have one less thing to worry about during the changing seasons. Thanks for reading our post about how to keep leaves out of window wells.
