How Much Does It Cost to Install or Replace a Window Well in 2025?
This project can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $4,200, so take a look at what could affect this price and get a quote from a pro.
A window well is a recessed area in the ground that surrounds a basement window.
They let you escape in the event of a fire or other emergency.
You’ll pay more for fiberglass or concrete window wells.
Plastic and steel window wells are lower-cost options.
This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
Window wells are essential for brightening up your basement and providing a safe emergency exit. Replacing a window well costs an average of $2,200, with most homeowners paying between $1,800 and $3,000, depending on factors like size, materials, and location. Understanding these cost factors can help you budget effectively and ensure your basement stays protected from water damage while enhancing safety and comfort in your home.
Window Well Installation Cost Factors and Breakdown
Materials for window well installation include the window well itself and, potentially, the window. If you're installing windows, as well as the window wells, you'll spend more on both materials and labor.
Materials
The materials you choose for your window well significantly impact both cost and functionality. Common options include plastic, steel, fiberglass, and concrete:
Plastic ($700 – $1,000): The most affordable option, plastic wells are lightweight and easy to install but may not be as durable in the long term.
Steel ($800 – $1,800): Steel wells offer superior strength and durability, making them a popular choice for homeowners seeking longevity.
Fiberglass ($1,000 – $2,200): Fiberglass wells are resistant to rust and corrosion, providing a balance between durability and maintenance.
Concrete ($1,500 – $2,800): Custom concrete wells offer maximum durability and can be designed to match your home's exterior but come at a higher cost.
Choosing the right material is crucial because it serves as the primary defense against soil pressure and water intrusion. Additionally, consider the appearance, as the window well will be visible from your basement windows.
Don't forget to factor in the cost of the window itself, which ranges from $100 to $700, depending on the type and size you select.
Installation
Labor costs average between $500 and $1,500, making up about 50% of your total project cost. This covers:
Removing the old window well
Excavating the area if necessary
Installing the new window well
If you're also installing an egress window, expect to add $50 to $150 per window in labor costs. Factors that can influence labor costs include the size of your window well, accessibility of the installation site, and any additional work such as connecting to drainage systems.
Getting a Permit and Meeting Code Requirements
Most local building codes require a permit for window well and egress window installation to ensure safety standards are met. Permits typically cost between $50 and $100, but fees can be higher in some areas. A professional window installer near you will handle the permitting process on your behalf, making it hassle-free for you.
In some cases, especially for extensive work or unique site conditions, you may also need to hire a land surveyor or structural engineer (around $500 each) to address specific challenges. These experts ensure that your project complies with all regulations and is structurally sound, giving you peace of mind.
Installing an Egress Window
If you're installing a window well, it follows that you'll need to install an egress window, too. These two jobs are often part of the same project, which reduces overall cost. The type of window you choose has a direct impact on the total project price. The cost of an egress basement window is between $100 and $1,000 or more, depending on the type and size of window you choose.
| Type of Window | Cost Range | Average Cost (All-in) |
|---|---|---|
| Picture window | $65 – $700 | $250 |
| Single-hung window | $100 – $400 | $375 |
| Double-hung window | $150 – $650 | $425 |
| Casement window | $150 – $1,000 | $350 |
| In-swing windows | $350 – $700 | $525 |
Window Features
Upgrading to double-paned windows ($200 to $500 for single-hung styles) enhances insulation and energy efficiency compared to single-paned windows. Triple-paned windows ($300 to $800 each) offer even greater thermal performance, which can lower your energy bills in extreme climates.
Adding a low-E (low-emissivity) coating increases the cost by about 10% per window but helps reflect heat, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
For additional energy efficiency, consider weather stripping ($130 to $400 per window). It seals gaps, prevents drafts, and improves your home's comfort year-round. These features can make your basement more comfortable and reduce long-term energy costs.
Adding Window Well Covers
Installing window well covers is a smart way to keep out rain, debris, and pests, helping to maintain a clean and dry basement. Window well covers come in various materials and styles:
Plastic Covers ($70 – $200): Lightweight and affordable, they allow light into your basement but may be less durable.
Polycarbonate Covers ($200 – $300): Durable and UV-resistant, offering a balance between strength and transparency.
Metal Grates ($300 – $700): Provide robust protection and ventilation but may reduce natural light.
Consider your needs for light, protection, and aesthetics when selecting a cover. Custom designs are also available if you have unique window well dimensions or specific style preferences.
Adding a Window Well as Part of a Larger Project
If you're planning to finish your basement and add living space, installing a window well and egress window is an excellent opportunity to enhance safety and natural light. By bundling these installations with your basement renovation, which typically costs $7 to $23 per square foot, you can save on labor costs and streamline the project. Coordinating these efforts allows contractors to work more efficiently and ensures all aspects of your basement meet building codes and work seamlessly together.
New vs. Replacement
Replacing a window well costs between $1,800 and $3,000, with most homeowners paying around $2,200. This cost is comparable to installing a new window well, depending on the materials and labor involved.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro for Window Well Installation
While installing a window well yourself may seem like a cost-saving option, it often involves excavating near your foundation and making structural changes to your home. Mistakes can lead to foundation damage, water intrusion, or code violations, which can be costly to fix. Hiring a professional ensures:
Proper Installation: Experienced contractors have the skills to install the window well correctly and efficiently.
Code Compliance: Professionals are familiar with local building codes and will ensure your window well meets all safety requirements.
Permitting: They can handle the permitting process on your behalf, saving you time and ensuring all legal requirements are met.
Peace of Mind: Professional installation reduces the risk of future problems, protecting your investment.
Considering the complexity and risks, it's wise to hire a qualified window well installer to ensure the job is done right.
How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data
No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
A window well should be at least 8 inches deeper than the bottom of your window and extend at least 6 inches wider on both sides. To determine the minimum dimensions, measure your window's width and height, then add 12 inches to the width and 8 inches to the height. For egress windows, building codes generally require the window well to be at least 36 inches long and wide, and between 3 and 5 feet deep, to provide safe emergency exit access.
While not all window wells require a drain, having one can significantly reduce the risk of water pooling and leaking into your basement. If you live in an area with heavy rainfall or poor soil drainage, connecting your window well to a drainage system like a French drain or sump pump is highly effective. The cost to add a drain typically ranges from $500 to $1,000. Ensuring your window well is properly graded also helps water flow away from your foundation. If you notice standing water or moisture in your window well, it's a sign that you may need to improve the drainage to protect your home from potential water damage.
You can keep your basement window wells in good condition by regularly clearing debris out of them or by installing window well covers so that debris can't get in to begin with. You'll also need to remove snow and ice buildup as soon as possible so it doesn't clog the drain or cause damage as it expands. Keep the drain clear, too, and take care of blockages right away. And check the seals on the liner, replacing the caulk if you notice any degradation.
For minor surface rust on a metal window well, you can:
Clean the Rust: Use steel wool and white vinegar to scrub away rust.
Prepare the Surface: Clean and dry the area thoroughly to remove loose particles.
Apply Primer: Coat the area with a galvanized metal primer to prevent future rust.
Paint: Once the primer is dry, apply two coats of acrylic latex paint designed for metal surfaces.
However, if the rust is extensive and affects the structural integrity, it may be more cost-effective and safer to replace the window well. A professional can assess the condition and recommend the best course of action.
Consider replacing your window well if you notice problems like leaks through the basement window, water pooling in the well, rust on metal wells, or cracks in concrete, plastic, or fiberglass wells. These issues indicate that the window well is no longer effectively keeping water and debris away from your window. Prompt replacement can prevent water damage to your basement and foundation, saving you money on costly repairs down the line.
Installing a window well typically takes professionals one to three days, depending on the size and complexity of the project. Replacing an existing window well is often quicker, often completed in one day. More extensive installations—such as adding a new window well, connecting to a drainage system, or installing custom materials—may take up to three days. Knowing the time frame helps you plan accordingly and minimizes disruption to your daily routine.
