Wondering if your window wells are failing? Here are five signs Westmont, IL homeowners should watch for to know when it’s time for window well repair or replacement.
In Westmont, IL, window wells aren’t just for light—they’re a critical part of your basement’s drainage system. When functioning properly, they protect below-grade windows from soil pressure, collect runoff, and drain water away from your foundation.
But when they fail, they become one of the most common entry points for water into your basement. Left unaddressed, damaged or poorly functioning window wells can lead to leaks, mold, rot, and interior water damage.
Knowing the warning signs early can save you from expensive repairs down the road. Here are the top five signs it’s time to repair your window wells.
A properly functioning window well should never hold water. If you consistently see standing water in the well after rain, it’s a clear sign the drain at the bottom is clogged—or missing entirely.
Water that pools near your basement window creates pressure on the glass and frame, increasing the risk of seepage. In Westmont’s clay soil, water tends to drain slowly, making a clogged well even more vulnerable during heavy storms.
What to do: Clean out debris and replace the gravel base. If pooling continues, a professional drain pipe may need to be installed.
Metal window well liners are common in older Westmont homes. Over time, these liners can rust, bend, or pull away from the foundation wall. When that happens, soil and moisture can seep through the gaps and settle around the window.
Rust is more than cosmetic—it weakens the structure of the well and reduces its ability to hold back dirt or water.
What to do: Severely rusted or damaged liners should be replaced. A secure liner is essential to keeping pressure and soil away from the window and foundation.
If you’re seeing moisture, fog, or stains on or around the inside of your basement window—especially after storms—your window well may be failing to keep water out.
Cracks in the window frame or glass often result from water pressure or freeze-thaw cycles common in Westmont winters. Leaks can also occur when water overflows the well and seeps into the window seams.
What to do: Repair or replace the window, but don’t stop there—make sure the surrounding well is draining and protected with a cover to prevent future damage.
If you notice dirt, mulch, or grass spilling into your window well, it’s likely a sign that the well liner is too low or improperly secured. This not only reduces drainage efficiency but can clog the drain and accelerate the breakdown of the window frame.
It’s also a strong indicator of grading problems—meaning water is flowing toward the well instead of away from it.
What to do: Regrade the soil around the foundation to slope away from the window well, and install a deeper, more secure liner to contain the surrounding soil.
A clear, properly fitted cover is your first line of defense against debris buildup, snow accumulation, and rainwater pooling. Without one, leaves and dirt fill the well, clogging the drain and creating conditions for leaks.
In Westmont, where sudden storms and snowfall are common, uncovered window wells are a fast track to basement moisture.
What to do: Install a new polycarbonate window well cover that fits securely over the well and slopes away from the house to direct water runoff.
Most window well failures start with small issues: a loose liner, poor drainage, or missing cover. But once moisture gets into your basement, the damage accelerates quickly—especially in finished spaces.
If you’ve noticed any of the signs above, it’s time to act. Early repair can save you thousands in restoration costs and prevent mold, rot, and foundation damage.
At Accu-Dry, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing window well problems across Westmont and DuPage County. Our team handles everything from minor fixes to full replacements, ensuring your wells protect your home—not put it at risk.
We offer:
Whether your basement is leaking or you just want peace of mind before the next storm, we’ve got a solution that fits your home and budget.
Don’t wait for water to show up on your basement floor. If your window wells are showing signs of wear, clogging, or leaking, now’s the time to fix them.
Contact Accu-Dry today to schedule your free window well inspection in Westmont. We’ll help you stop leaks before they start—and protect your basement from the ground up.
