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GJ MacRae Foundation Repair

Solutions for Window Well Filling with Water: What to Do?

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Written and Edited By Gavin MacRae

window well fitting solutions

Table of Contents

Why Do Window Wells Fill With Water?

Wondering why your window well keeps filling up with water after rain? It’s a common issue in the GTA, especially during storms or snowmelt. Poor grading, clogged gutters, or a missing drain system can all cause excess water to pool around your basement windows. When that water can’t escape, it puts pressure on your foundation and may lead to a basement window well leak — one of the most common causes of basement flooding.

If you’ve searched “Why is water leaking through my basement window?” or “How do I stop my window well from flooding?” — you’re not alone, and you’re in the right place.

Problems Caused by Flooded Window Wells

Standing water in a window well isn’t just annoying — it can cause serious damage. Water can seep into the basement, ruin window frames, stain the glass, and even promote mold growth. If left untreated, these issues often lead to expensive foundation repairs.

Looking for help? See how our basement waterproofing services can solve your water problems for good.

Window Well Filling with Water? Here’s What to Do

Let’s break it down simply: if your window well floods every time it rains, here are three smart fixes that can make a big difference.

1. Install a Window Well Cover

Looking to stop rain or snow from getting into your window well? A durable window well cover is one of the best investments you can make.

These covers act like a protective lid, keeping out water, leaves, and debris. They’re especially important during Toronto’s rainy fall and snowy winters. Bonus: they also prevent pets or kids from falling in!

2. Install a Proper Drainage System

If your window well has no drain — or it’s clogged — the water has nowhere to go. That’s when flooding starts.

  • Install a French drain or connect a drainpipe to your weeping tile system.
  • Ensure the area is backfilled with gravel for proper filtration.
  • Make sure water flows away from your home — not toward it.

Pro Tip: Pair your drain with a window well cover for double protection.

3. Perform Regular Window Well Maintenance

A little maintenance goes a long way. Clean out your window wells seasonally to remove leaves, dirt, and other debris that can block the drainage system.

Ask yourself:
“When was the last time I checked my window wells?”
If it’s been a while, now’s the perfect time to inspect them — before the next rainstorm hits.

Speak to a Local Waterproofing Expert

Voice search queries like:

  • “Who fixes window well drainage near me?” 
  • “Window well flooding solutions in Toronto” 
  • “Basement window leaking water in storm — help!” 

often lead homeowners right to GJ MacRae. We’ve been waterproofing homes in the Greater Toronto Area for over 45 years. 

Still worried about water in your window well? 

Let the pros at GJ MacRae handle it before it becomes a bigger issue. Our custom drainage systems and waterproofing solutions are designed specifically for the GTA’s climate and soil conditions.

Want personalized help? It’s time to contact experts and fix your window well because until now, it’s only the theory you learned; implementing it using different tools needs experts. Contact our team now for a free quote.

Call today or request a quote online. Don’t wait until you have a flooded basement!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why put rocks in windows well?

Adding rocks at window wells helps filter dirt and mud, which would otherwise contribute to clogging the weeping tile system. Besides, it also allows water to dissipate into the ground slowly, preventing water from seeping into the basement through the window frame.

Does the window need drainage?

Of course, window wells need drainage and prevent water from accumulating inside and causing damage to your home. While most window wells have a drainage system that consists of a vertical drain pipe connecting to a weeping tile system under your foundation.

Can you pour concrete in a window well?

Well, it depends on the purpose and method. If the intention is to install a window well, the process involves digging a hole around the window, placing a layer of gravel at the bottom, and pouring concrete between plywood planks to create the well’s floor. On the other hand, constructing a brick window well entails pouring a concrete footing below the frost line and laying bricks atop it. However, specific considerations must be considered if the goal is to fill an existing window well with concrete. These include ensuring the well has proper drainage and ventilation and taking precautions to avoid damaging the window or the foundation during the concrete filling process.

Gavin MacRae is a professional foundation repair and basement waterproofing expert with over 20 years of experience in the field. He has extensive knowledge about foundation issues such as settlement, and cracks as well as expertise in repair techniques. Gavin is also highly skilled in basement waterproofing using interior and exterior methods. He has worked with hundreds of homeowners to provide permanent solutions to foundation and basement problems.