Window Well
An excavation around a below-grade window that provides light, ventilation, and emergency egress access from basement rooms.
Window wells are essential for basement bedrooms that require egress windows. The Ontario Building Code requires that window wells provide adequate clearance for a person to escape through the window. Wells must extend at least 760 mm from the building wall and provide a clear opening of at least 0.38 m².
Wells deeper than 600 mm below grade typically require a permanently attached ladder or steps. Proper drainage is critical — a gravel base and weeping tile connection prevent water accumulation that can lead to basement flooding.