If you’ve been wondering what allows us to guarantee our egress windows against leaking, read on about our five step process.
STEP 1 – EXCAVATION
We excavate down to the footing to ensure proper drainage*. Many contractors will tell you this is not necessary and that you can save a lot of money by not having it dug so deep. Unfortunately, the money you save — AND MORE — will most likely be spent on repairs down the road. Without proper drainage, water will eventually seep into your basement. This is especially devastating if you have a finished basement.
*If you have very sandy soil, excavation to the footing may not be necessary to ensure proper drainage. In this case, our estimate will clearly state this, and will be priced accordingly. Most importantly, we will still give you the same great warranty!
STEP 2 – DRAIN TILE
For best results, we recommend a drain tile be installed at the bottom of the egress window well. This allows water to drain directly into the drain tile system. If an exterior drain tile system does not exist, we can dig beneath the footing and connect into an interior drain tile system. This extra step will extend our warranty from 10 years, to 20 YEARS!
STEP 3- DRAINAGE FABRIC LINER
Drainage fabric liner is installed in the excavated area, followed by washed rock, typically within 8 inches of the bottom of the new window.
After the rock is leveled, we install an additional layer of drainage fabric and cover this with another 4 inches of rock. The drainage fabric liner is extended up the sides of the window well, including between the excavated soils and the egress window well. This prevents soils and sediment from interfering with proper drainage.
STEP 4 – EXTERIOR DRAINAGE SHEETING OR FABRIC
Timber window wells are lined on the outside with dimpled drainage sheeting. This is a waterproofing material that allows water to drain down the side of the window well, providing a protective barrier, keeping water and soils from damaging the window well. Brick, stone or cement window wells are also protected with drainage fabric liner and washed rock surrounding the outer window well.
STEP 5 – BACKFILL
The excavated soils are back-filled and compacted. We remove and dispose of all excess dirt and debris and can restore your landscaping to pre-construction status, per the estimate specifications.
