What Are Basement Window Covers Called?

If you’ve ever searched for a cover for a basement window, you’ve probably noticed something confusing right away—there isn’t just one name. In fact, basement window covers go by a few different names, and the correct term depends entirely on what type of basement window you have.

Understanding that distinction is key, because buying the wrong type of cover can mean wasted money, poor fitment, or protection that doesn’t actually solve your problem.

Let’s break it down.

Not All Basement Windows Are the Same

Before you can figure out what your basement window cover is called, you first need to identify how your window is positioned relative to the ground.

There are two common scenarios:

1. Basement windows that sit just above ground level

2. Basement windows that are below ground level and surrounded by a window well

Each one uses a different type of cover—and they serve different purposes.

Basement Windows Just Above Ground Level: Dome Covers

If your basement window has a small “reveal” and sits slightly above the soil line, you’re typically looking for a basement window dome cover.

What Are Dome Covers?

Dome covers are clear or lightly tinted plastic covers that mount over the window itself. They’re designed to create a protective shell that sheds water away from the window opening.

Why Dome Covers Are Common on Older Homes

These windows are most often found on older houses, where:

• Window seals may no longer be watertight

• Frames may have shifted over time

• Minor leaks are common during rain or snowmelt

In these situations, a dome cover acts like a small roof—keeping water off the window entirely, rather than trying to seal it out.

Best Use Case

• Preventing water intrusion

• Protecting aging basement windows

• Windows that are not in a window well

Basement Windows Below Ground: Window Well Covers

If your basement window is below ground level and surrounded by a metal, plastic, or concrete enclosure, that enclosure is called a window well—and the cover you need is called a window well cover.

What Is a Window Well Cover?

A window well cover sits on top of the well and spans the open area between the house and the ground. These covers can be made from plastic, polycarbonate, or steel mesh.

What Window Well Covers Do

While some covers help with water management, their primary purpose is safety and debris prevention:

• Preventing people from falling into the well

• Keeping pets from getting trapped

• Blocking leaves, trash, and snow buildup

The Best Option: Mesh Steel Basement Window Well Covers

Among all window well cover types, mesh steel window well covers offer the best balance of safety, durability, and light.

Why Mesh Steel Covers Stand Out

High-quality mesh steel covers:

• Are strong enough to support human weight

• Allow natural light to reach the basement window

• Have mesh openings small enough to block pets and debris

For example, Feldhawk mesh steel window well covers are rated to hold up to 400 lbs, making them a serious safety solution—not just a cosmetic add-on.

When Mesh Beats Plastic

Plastic and polycarbonate covers can crack, yellow, or collapse under weight. Mesh steel covers are built for:

• Long-term durability

• Code-friendly safety

• High-traffic or family homes

So… What Are Basement Window Covers Called?

Here’s the simple answer:

• Dome covers → For basement windows just above ground level

• Window well covers → For basement windows below ground

• Mesh steel window well covers → The strongest, safest option for window wells

Choosing the right name—and the right product—comes down to understanding your window’s location and purpose.

Once you know that, protecting your basement becomes a whole lot simpler.