Feasible for experienced DIYers with proper tools and understanding of excavation, concrete work, and code requirements. Professional installation is recommended for optimal compliance and longevity due to critical drainage and egress considerations.
Installation requires careful excavation adjacent to the foundation, precise adherence to egress window well dimensions, proper connection to foundation drainage systems, and secure attachment to the existing foundation, all while maintaining DuPage County's 42-inch frost protection standards.
Project Guidelines & Rules
Project Administration & Site Preparation
5 Rules
Permits & Plans
A building permit is required for any structural alteration, including the addition of an egress window and window well. Detailed plans must be submitted to your local building department prior to commencement of work. (2024 IRC R105.1, R106.1)
Inspections
Required inspections typically include excavation/drainage, rough installation, and final inspection. Consult your local building department for specific inspection schedules. (2024 IRC R109.1)
Underground Utility Locates
Before any excavation, contact JULIE (Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators) at least 48 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) prior to digging to prevent damage to underground utilities. (Illinois Underground Utility Facilities Damage Prevention Act)
Foundation Protection
Excavation must not undermine the existing foundation footings. Maintain a minimum 1:1 slope for temporary excavations if not shored. (2024 IRC R403.1.1)
Frost Depth Consideration
Any drainage components connected to the window well that extend below grade must be protected from freezing, typically requiring burial below DuPage County's 42-inch frost depth. (DuPage County Standard, derived from 2024 IRC R403.1.4.1)
Window Well Dimensions & Egress Requirements
5 Rules
Minimum Horizontal Area
The window well must have a minimum horizontal area of 9 square feet. (2024 IRC R310.2.2)
Minimum Horizontal Projection/Width
The horizontal projection and width of the window well must each be a minimum of 36 inches. (2024 IRC R310.2.2)
Ladder or Steps Requirement
A permanently affixed ladder or steps are required if the vertical depth of the window well is greater than 44 inches. (2024 IRC R310.2.3)
Ladder/Steps Specifications
Ladders or steps must not encroach into the window well by more than 6 inches, have a minimum clear width of 12 inches, and comply with manufacturer's installation instructions. (2024 IRC R310.2.3)
Egress Window Operation
The emergency escape and rescue opening (window) within the well must be operational from the inside without the use of keys, tools, or special knowledge. (2024 IRC R310.2.1)
Drainage Systems
5 Rules
Connection to Foundation Drain
The window well drainage system must be connected to the building's foundation drainage system. (2024 IRC R310.2.4, R405.1)
Alternative Drainage
If connection to the foundation drainage system is not feasible, an approved alternative means of draining water, such as a dry well, may be permitted with specific approval from the local building department. The dry well must be sized appropriately for DuPage County's climate and soil conditions. (2024 IRC R310.2.4)
Gravel Backfill
A minimum 6-inch layer of clean, coarse gravel or crushed stone must be placed at the bottom of the window well, extending around the drain pipe, to facilitate water collection and drainage. (Industry Best Practice, supports 2024 IRC R310.2.4)
Drain Pipe Slope
All drainage pipes must be installed with a minimum slope of 1/8 inch per foot (1%) to ensure positive drainage. (Industry Best Practice, derived from general drainage principles)
Drain Pipe Material
Approved drainage pipe materials, such as perforated PVC or corrugated pipe with a filter sock, shall be used. (2024 IRC R405.1)
Installation & Structural Integrity
3 Rules
Attachment to Foundation
The window well must be securely anchored to the existing foundation wall in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions to prevent movement or collapse. (Industry Standard, ensures stability and safety)
Backfill
Backfill around the window well and foundation should consist of approved granular fill material, compacted in maximum 12-inch lifts, to minimize settlement and ensure proper foundation support. Avoid clay soils near foundation. (Industry Standard, supports 2024 IRC R401.1)
Waterproofing/Flashing
Ensure proper sealing and flashing around the egress window frame and where the window well meets the foundation to prevent water intrusion into the basement. Manufacturer's recommendations for window installation and waterproofing should be followed. (2024 IRC R703.8)
Electrical Considerations
2 Rules
General Applicability
The installation of the window well itself typically does not involve electrical components. (2023 NEC - General Non-Applicability)
Associated Electrical Work
Any new or modified electrical installations, such as exterior lighting or receptacles near or within the window well area, must comply with the 2023 NEC, including requirements for wet locations. (2023 NEC Article 406.9 for receptacles, Article 410 for luminaires)
Plumbing Considerations
2 Rules
General Applicability
The installation of a window well is not directly governed by the Illinois Plumbing Code as it pertains to storm drainage and does not involve potable water, sanitary drainage, or vent systems within the scope of the plumbing code. (Illinois Plumbing Code - General Non-Applicability, 77 Ill. Adm. Code 890)
Indirect Relevance
While the well itself is not a plumbing fixture, its connection to a foundation drain may interact with the building's overall storm drainage system, which is addressed in the IRC and general civil engineering practices for stormwater management. (2024 IRC R405.1)
Top Rated Windows & Doors Pros in Lake County
KMK Residential Restorations Inc.
