Many homeowners have egress windows installed in order to turn their basements into usable living spaces. These windows offer many benefits for basements. They provide a source of natural light that can completely transform the space. They are also a source of ventilation and most importantly, a safety feature for the home.
It can therefore be devastating to wake up to a flooded basement and ruined property. Recovering from this kind of damage can be expensive and time-consuming. If your leaky egress windows are the cause of the flooding, the following are some things you can do to stop the leaking.
- Caulking
This is often the first thing that homeowners will think of when faced with a leaky basement window. While it will give immediate results, it is not a long term solution. You need to address the root cause of the leaking to prevent further damage such as rotting of the window frame or damage of the foundation wall. Further repairs are therefore necessary.
- Have your window and foundation inspected
A leaky window may be a sign of a much deeper problem with your foundation. It is therefore always a good idea to call in an experienced foundation contractor to have your window and foundation inspected. They will be able to locate the cause of the problems and determine the best approach to resolving the issue.
- Install a window well
Window wells are an effective way to keep moisture away from the foundation and your basement windows. This is especially important if your window is below grade.
The window well should include features that will assist in the drainage of the water away from the window. These include layers of gravel and a drainage system beneath.
- Have a window well cover installed
If you already have a window well, your problem may be the result of the window well-becoming clogged with dirt and other debris. You would have to clean your window well regularly to prevent it from clogging. If you want to avoid this, simply have a window well cover installed. Window well covers prevent dirt and other debris from getting into the window well. They will also help to make the window well safer for pets and children by preventing them from falling into it.
These are just a few ways to help resolve leaking in egress windows. Discuss your problem with a professional waterproofing contractor to find out which options are available to you.
Contact the professionals at A.M. Shield Waterproofing today! (516) 294-8400
