Basement Waterproofing Case Studies: Failing Window Well Threatens Basement in Aurora, Ontario
Challenge
When you think of a basement leak, a window well isn't typically the first area of concern to come to mind. But when you think about how window wells fail, it makes complete sense why they could lead to water seepage.
A customer in Aurora, Ontario, has a basement window well that would fill up with water like an aquarium. The vertical drain was clogged and didn't allow water through, and there were several times water had gone through the window into the basement.
The homeowner was concerned about mould forming or the window giving way, so he decided to reach out to Clarke Basement Systems. One of our System Design Specialists, Ben Wallis, travelled to the home and inspected the window well and basement. Ben determined that the customer needed a new drain excavated and a replacement well.
Solution
Company Owner and Foreman Don Clarke started the repair by removing the old, bent window well. Over the years, water would freeze around the metal and expand, causing the frame to shift and warp. Don excavated a new vertical drain tested it before installing a new SunHouse® Window Well. This unique window well is made of durable plastic and resists damage from UV rays. It won't crack or degrade over time and is flexible enough to shift with the changing seasons.
The customer is thrilled that he doesn't have a fish tank outside of his basement window anymore. His home is protected, and he was happy to see our company owner completing the repair.