How to Build an Egress Well Cover

Egress windows are large windows that, as the name suggests, you can exit from if the need arises. When installed in a sunken basement wall, an egress window will exit into a window well. The well, in turn, leads up to the yard, and anyone leaving by the egress should be easily able to climb out. However, while an egress window and well are great for safely escaping your home, it's also a good safety precaution to put a cap on top of your well to keep out debris and stop people from accidentally falling into the well.

Measuring tape
Metal grate
Hacksaw
Plexiglass sheet or fine wire mesh
Screws
Construction adhesive
Hinge
Drill driver

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the top of the egress window well. Make a small drawing of the well, noting the measurements on it. Make your cap at least one inch larger on three sides of the well so it covers the well entirely.
- 2
  Lay out your grate. The grate acts as the basic cap over your well. If the grate isn't sized for your well, cut it to size with a hacksaw. For additional protection, and to keep leaves and debris from falling into your well, you can glue a piece of plexiglass over the top of the grate, or wrap the grate in fine mesh.
- 3
  Place the grate over the top of the egress well and check for gaps. Once the grate is in place, attach a hinge to the well wall and the grate. The hinge, or multiple hinges if you want to add additional strength, must allow the grate to be pushed up so a person can climb out of the well.
- 4
  Exit through the egress window. Oil the hinges for ease of use.

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