As winter settles into Fort Collins, homeowners need to turn their attention to one often-overlooked area of home protection—window wells. Proper window well maintenance isn’t just about appearances; it’s about keeping your basement safe from leaks, protecting your foundation from water damage, and ensuring that your egress routes remain clear in case of emergencies.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to prepare your window wells for the harsh Colorado winter, with tips based on best practices and industry expertise.

Why Winterizing Your Window Wells Matters?

When snow and ice accumulate in poorly maintained window wells, they can:

• Lead to basement flooding

• Cause cracks in foundation walls

• Block emergency exits

• Increase the risk of mold and water damage

• Damage window well covers or liners

Proactively preparing now helps you avoid costly repairs later—and ensures your family stays safe and dry all season long.

Pre-Winter Window Well Prep Checklist

Here are the steps every Fort Collins homeowner should take before temperatures drop:

1. Clear Out Debris

Start by removing leaves, twigs, and other organic matter from your window wells. Debris buildup clogs your drainage system, prevents snowmelt from draining properly, and can contribute to mold growth.

Pro Tip: Schedule regular cleanings in fall to prevent water backup when the snow starts melting.

2. Add Fresh Gravel for Drainage

Place 6–8 inches of clean gravel or crushed stone at the bottom of each window well. This helps water drain away from the foundation and prevents ice from pooling near your basement windows.

Make sure the gravel sits below the window sill to avoid direct contact with the window frame.

3. Trim Back Vegetation

Nearby shrubs, vines, and plants may not seem like a big deal—but when winter winds blow, that vegetation can drop debris directly into your wells. Cut back any overgrowth to keep things tidy and to improve airflow around the window area.

4. Inspect Basement Windows and Seals

Cracks around your basement window can allow cold air, moisture, and pests into your home. Check the caulking and seals, and re-caulk as needed. A weather-tight seal prevents water intrusion and improves energy efficiency.

5. Examine Your Window Well Covers

Your window well covers are the first line of defense against snow, ice, and wildlife. Inspect your covers for:

• Cracks or brittleness

• Loose fittings or fasteners

• Warping or sagging

If you notice damage or your covers are not properly secured, consider upgrading to custom metal window well covers or polycarbonate models designed to withstand snow load and UV exposure.

6. Check the Surrounding Grading

Water should always flow away from your foundation, not toward it. The ground around your window wells should slope outward to prevent pooling during snowmelt.

If the soil has shifted or settled, regrade the area before snow sets in.

7. Consider Adding a Sump Pump

For homes that experience frequent water buildup in the basement or window wells, a sump pump may be a worthwhile investment. It actively removes water and keeps the area dry—even during heavy snowmelt.

During Winter: Ongoing Maintenance

Even after prep work is done, winter brings its own challenges. Continue to:

• Clear snow and ice regularly from the window wells (and covers) to prevent buildup.

• Make sure emergency exits remain accessible and unobstructed.

• Check for ice dams or excessive weight that could crack covers or damage the well walls.

Trust a Local Expert in Fort Collins

As a trusted window well company in Fort Collins, CO, Window Well Solutions specializes in helping homeowners prepare for every season—including Colorado’s unpredictable winters. Whether you need custom window well covers, liner replacement, or professional maintenance, our team ensures your home stays protected from the elements.

Ready to Winterize?

Contact Window Well Solutions today for a free estimate on winter prep services and window well maintenance in Fort Collins. Your basement—and your peace of mind—will thank you.

FAQs About Winter Window Well Maintenance in Fort Collins

Q1: How often should I clear snow from my window wells in winter?

A: Ideally, after each snowfall—especially if snow accumulation exceeds a few inches. Keeping the area clear helps prevent weight damage and maintains emergency egress.

Q2: What’s the best type of window well cover for Colorado winters?

A: Polycarbonate or custom metal window well covers are ideal. They’re strong enough to handle snow loads and are designed to resist UV damage and freezing temperatures.

Q3: Can clogged window wells cause basement flooding?

A: Absolutely. If your window well doesn’t drain properly due to debris or frozen gravel, melting snow can seep into your basement and damage flooring or drywall.

Q4: Should I DIY my window well prep or hire a professional?

A: Some tasks (like debris removal) are simple DIY projects, but inspection, sealing, and cover replacement are often best handled by professionals to ensure long-term protection.

Q5: Do I need to maintain window wells if I have covers installed?

A: Yes. Covers help a lot, but snow and ice can still build up. Occasional clearing and inspections are necessary to keep everything functioning properly.