Egress window wells and ladders
The well is half of a working egress window. If it's too small, floods or has no way to climb out, the window doesn't do its job.
An egress window below grade needs an area well outside it so the window can open fully and a person can stand in the well and climb out. Wells are made of galvanized steel, plastic composite, or poured or stacked concrete and stone. Wells used for egress have their own size rules, separate from the window.
How big does the well need to be?
The model International Residential Code calls for a well with at least 9 square feet of floor area, measuring at least 36 inches out from the wall and 36 inches wide, and big enough for the window to open all the way. Sioux Falls' adopted amendments require a permanently attached ladder or steps in any well deeper than 48 inches, usable with the window fully open. Under the model code, ladder rungs need an inside width of at least 12 inches and can't be more than 18 inches apart vertically.
Why do window wells flood?
- No drain, or a drain that was never connected to the foundation drain tile
- Too little gravel in the bottom of the well
- The yard slopes toward the well instead of away from it
- Downspouts emptying right beside it
- The top of the well sits too low, so surface water runs in
- Snow drifts that melt in place during a spring thaw
The model code requires egress wells to drain to the foundation drainage system or another approved method, with an exception for well-drained soils. Ask the contractor how the well will drain.
When should a well be replaced?
- Steel that's rusted through at the bottom or the seams
- A well that has tipped toward or away from the house
- A gap between the well and the foundation that lets soil wash in
- A well too small for the window to open or for someone to stand in
The contractor prices the job after seeing the wall, the yard and the room. We don't quote prices, and a number given over the phone before anyone has looked at the foundation is only a rough starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Does every egress window well need a ladder?
In Sioux Falls, a ladder or steps is required where the well is deeper than 48 inches. Shallower wells don't need one, though some homeowners add steps anyway.
Can a window well be replaced without replacing the window?
Yes. If the window and opening are fine, the old well can be dug out and replaced with a larger or better-drained one.
Related services
- Egress window installation
- Cutting and enlarging openings
- Window well covers
- Basement bedroom code compliance
More background: Sioux Falls egress window guide.
Finishing the basement or adding a bedroom down there?
Call and get connected with a local contractor who cuts and installs egress windows.