Guide
Basement Window Well Replacement in Wichita, KS
An old well can rust, tilt and fill with water. Replacing it is also the moment to meet the code.
- Ladders and covers
- Drainage that works
- When to replace
Licensed and insured. Many years in business serving the greater Wichita area.
Signs it is time
- Rust or cracks in the metal
- Soil pushing the well away from the wall
- Water standing at the bottom
- A window that no longer opens fully
What the Wichita code says
Wells deeper than 44 inches need a ladder or steps, and wells deeper than 30 inches need a guard or a rated cover. The well must connect to the foundation drain or sit on at least 12 inches of washed gravel (Ordinance 50-833). The standard well size is 9 square feet with a 36 inch minimum projection and width (Prairie Village).
Steps to replace one
- Dig out. Remove the old well and loose soil.
- Fix the drain. Tie to the foundation drain or add gravel.
- Set the well. Anchor it to the wall and seal the top edge.
- Add the cover or ladder. Match the code for your depth.
- Grade. Slope soil away.
Budget note: digging runs $50 to $200 per cubic yard, and a cover is near $600 (Angi*).
Pair it with a window upgrade
If the window is small, replace it too. See egress window installation.
Keep reading
Back to the home page, or browse all basement services.
Questions about window wells
Do all wells need a cover?
Ones deeper than 30 inches need a guard or cover (Ordinance 50-833).
Can the cover lock?
A cover on an egress well must open with no more than 30 pounds of force, so it cannot need a key (Ordinance 50-833).
Why does my well fill with water?
Usually poor drainage. A gravel base or a drain connection helps.
How much does a cover cost?
Angi lists about $600 (Angi*).
Can I reuse the old well?
Sometimes, if it is sound and the code is met.
Who does the work?
We do. See contact.
Ready to plan your basement?
Call or send the form, and we will walk through your own basement before we price it.
* Costs are estimates from the linked outside guides, not a quote from us.