How To Measure For Window Well Cover

Measuring for a window well cover is a straightforward process that can save you time and money. Accurate measurements are essential to ensure a proper fit, which is crucial for keeping debris, pests, and water out of your window wells and basement. Here's how to do it right.

Gather Your Tools

Before you begin, collect the necessary tools. You'll need:

• A measuring tape (a metal one is best for accuracy)
• A notepad and pen or pencil
• Possibly a level (especially if your window well edges appear uneven)

Determine Your Window Well Shape

The first step is to identify the shape of your window well. Common shapes include:

• Rectangular/Square: Four straight sides and four corners.
• Semicircular: A half-circle shape.
• Custom/Irregular: Any shape that doesn't fit neatly into the above categories. These may have curves, angles, or other unique features.

Knowing the shape will guide the measurements you need to take.

Measuring Rectangular/Square Window Wells

For rectangular or square window wells, you'll need to measure the length and width.

Step 1: Measure the Length

Place the end of your measuring tape at the inside edge of one side of the window well. Extend the tape to the inside edge of the opposite side. Record this measurement as the length. Repeat this measurement at different points along the length to check for variations. Use the largest measurement you find. Measure inside the well, from edge to edge.

Step 2: Measure the Width

Now, measure the width of the window well. Place the end of your measuring tape at the inside edge of one side of the window well. Extend the tape to the inside edge of the opposite side. Record this measurement as the width. As with the length, take measurements at different points along the width and use the largest measurement.

Step 3: Account for Overhang (Optional)

Decide if you want any overhang. Overhang provides extra protection by extending the cover beyond the edge of the well. If desired, add the specified overhang amount (usually 1-2 inches per side) to both the length and width measurements.

Measuring Semicircular Window Wells

For semicircular window wells, you'll need to measure the width (diameter) and the height.

Step 1: Measure the Width (Diameter)

The width of a semicircular window well is the distance across the widest part of the semicircle. Place the end of your measuring tape at the inside edge of one side of the semicircle. Extend the tape to the inside edge of the opposite side, making sure to pass through the center point. Record this measurement as the diameter. Measure at multiple points to ensure accuracy and use the largest measurement.

Step 2: Measure the Height

The height is the distance from the base of the semicircle (the straight edge) to the farthest point along the curved edge. Place the end of your measuring tape at the center of the base. Extend the tape up to the farthest point on the curve. Record this measurement as the height. It’s often easiest to visualize a straight line upward from the center of the base.

Step 3: Account for Overhang (Optional)

Add any desired overhang to the diameter. This typically involves adding a few inches to each side. Also consider the height of your cover; a higher dome will accommodate larger objects that might fall in the well before being blocked. In general, one measures the diameter, then adds to the radius (half the diameter) to accommodate height.

Measuring Custom/Irregular Window Wells

Measuring custom or irregular window wells requires a bit more attention to detail. The goal is to create a template or series of measurements that accurately capture the shape.

Step 1: Create a Sketch

Start by sketching the outline of the window well on your notepad. This doesn't need to be perfectly to scale, but it should accurately represent the shape and any unique features.

Step 2: Identify Key Points

Identify key points along the perimeter of the window well. These points should represent the most extreme or defining features of the shape, such as corners, curves, and angles.

Step 3: Measure Distances Between Key Points

Measure the distances between each of the key points. Record these measurements on your sketch. Also, measure the depth of the well at various points to determine a general average, or simply measure at the deepest part.

Step 4: Take Additional Measurements for Curves

If your window well has curves, take multiple measurements along the curve to accurately capture its shape. You can do this by dividing the curve into smaller segments and measuring the length of each segment. Also consider measuring the distance from the straight line connecting the endpoints of the curve to the farthest point on the curve (the height of the curve).

Step 5: Consider Professional Assistance

For very complex shapes, you might consider seeking professional assistance. A contractor or window well cover specialist can take accurate measurements and create a custom-fitted cover.

General Tips for Accurate Measurements

• Measure Twice, Cut Once: This old adage applies perfectly here. Double-check all your measurements to minimize errors.
• Use a Consistent Measuring Point: Always measure from the inside edge of the window well.
• Account for Obstructions: Note any pipes, wires, or other obstructions that might interfere with the cover.
• Round Up: If your measurements fall between two numbers, round up to the nearest fraction of an inch (e.g., 1/8 inch). This ensures the cover won't be too small.
• Consider the Material: The material of the cover can also affect the required measurements. Rigid covers typically need more precise measurements than flexible covers.
• Take Photos: It's always helpful to take photos of your window well to provide context for your measurements.

Applying This Knowledge

Knowing how to measure accurately for a window well cover directly impacts your ability to maintain your home effectively. You can:

• Save Money: By ordering the correct size cover the first time, you avoid costly returns and reorders.
• Prevent Water Damage: A properly fitted cover prevents water from entering your basement, reducing the risk of mold, mildew, and structural damage.
• Improve Home Security: Window well covers can deter intruders from entering your home through the basement windows.
• Enhance Curb Appeal: A clean and covered window well looks much better than one filled with debris.

These steps are applicable to both homeowners and professionals such as contractors or landscapers who work on properties requiring window well maintenance.

Checklist for Measuring Window Well Covers

• Identify the shape of your window well.
• Gather your tools: measuring tape, notepad, pen/pencil, level.
• Measure the length, width, and height (depending on shape).
• Account for any overhang you desire.
• Note any obstructions inside the well.
• Round up measurements to the nearest fraction of an inch.
• Double-check all measurements before ordering.
• Take photos for reference.