Window Wells Harbor Critters, Debris Also Potential Safety, Security Hazard

Colder weather is trapping critters in window wells across the nation. Potential for children or adults falling into a well is always present. One easy solution is window well covers. Window wells are tailor-made to trap everything from the errant field bunny looking for shelter to an errant kid looking for hiding places. Theyre a natural repository for all sorts of debris and precipitation

December 29, 2004 -- Colder weather is trapping critters in window wells across the nation. Potential for children or adults falling into a well is always present. One easy solution is window well covers.
   
Window wells are tailor-made to trap everything from the errant field bunny looking for shelter to an errant kid looking for hiding places. Theyre a natural repository for all sorts of debris and precipitation. Snow, for example, can accumulate in the wells and intensify heat loss from the home. And, they can be an inviting point of entry for burglars and robbers.
   
Not so easy is making the decision about which cover to buy. Big Box stores carry a variety of standard sized covers that are generally economical and somewhat functionalbut many lack aesthetic appeal and durability.
   
At the other end of the spectrum are custom-designed window well covers that look good and last long, at a premium price.

Selecting a suitable window well cover can be perplexing. Following are Top 10 tips to help you decide:
1. Address strength and durability. Generally, the more youre willing to spend, the more strength and longevity you buy. If you want the cover to support the weight of a child or adult, a major safety consideration, youll want a higher-end plastic or metal cover. And, how long does it need to last without discoloring or falling apart?
2. Assess less-obvious functionality. Other important functional issues include sloping to allow water run off, ability to cover windows that extend above the walls, construction that prevents wind vibration, and ability to eliminate up to 15% of heat loss through the windows. Think about what you want the cover to cover in terms of specialized functional needs.
3. Assess aesthetics. A good-looking window well cover can add to property value. Think about form versus function. If, for example, you want the cover to look good for appraisal or resale purposes, buy accordingly.
4. Consider security. Crime statistics show that 4% of burglars gain access through basement windows. Think about the security benefits of a locking window well cover.   
5. Consider emergency safety. Think about egress issues when buying a cover. Type of installation and locking systems will determine the ability to exit in case of a fire or other emergency.
6. Get fit. Decide how well you want the cover to fit, both a form and function consideration. Well-fitting covers help ensure best function (e.g., no gapping that allows in excessive moisture) and, obviously, can look better than the result of fitting a square peg into a round hole.
7. Examine ventilation. Proper ventilation prevents condensation and heat buildup. Determine the importance of ventilation and buy accordingly.
8. Get light. Some covers block considerable lighteither because of the type of construction or rapid discoloration. Decide how much light you want, and select a cover that wont easily discolor.
9. Mount up. Think about whether the cover will be mounted to the well or wall. Generally, the less standard your requirements, the more customization will be required.
10. Clean up. Ease of cleaning either the well or the cover should be factored into the buying decision. Easy cover removal, self-cleaning aspects and portability are factors to consider.
   
A well-covered window well can add peace of mind, safety, security and value to your property.

Media Contacts:
Mark Lusky, 303-321-2911
Glynn Kierstein or Wendy Trachta, 303-429-7002

Glynn Kierstein, president of Comfort Concepts, Inc., manufactures Coverwell custom window well covers. Reach him tollfree at 1-877-772-4251 (303-429-7002 inside Colorado); e-mail protected from spam bots.

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