What Can I Use to Cover My Window Wells?

Why You Shouldn’t Leave Your Window Wells Uncovered

It’s common for homeowners to notice the dangers of an uncovered window well — and then do nothing more than throw a few wooden boards over the top.

On the surface, that seems like a quick fix. The boards are strong enough to hold a person’s weight, and it feels like you’ve solved the problem. But in reality, this approach comes with serious risks and downsides.

The Problem with Wooden Boards or Plywood Covers

Let’s start with the most common DIY “solution” — wood. Whether you’re using scrap boards or cut pieces of plywood, here are the major issues:

1. They can easily slide when stepped on.Most accidental window well falls happen when someone isn’t paying attention — mowing the lawn, cleaning up leaves, or walking around the yard at night. If the board shifts even slightly, it’s easy to lose your balance and fall in.

2. They block out natural light.One of the main benefits of a basement window is extra daylight. A solid board blocks out that light completely, leaving your basement darker and less inviting.

3. They rot over time.Wood and moisture are a bad mix. Even treated plywood eventually absorbs water, warps, and decays in the elements. That means it’s not a long-term solution, and you’ll be replacing it often — if it doesn’t fail before then.

In short: wood covers may seem convenient, but they’re unsafe, unattractive, and temporary at best.

Option 1: Thin Plastic Window Well Covers

Thin plastic (often acrylic or vinyl) window well covers are the next step up from DIY solutions. You can find them at most hardware stores for as little as $10–$15 each.

Pros:

• Inexpensive

• Keeps out water, leaves, and debris

• Easy to find and install

Cons:

• Very lightweight — strong winds can blow them off

• Become brittle, yellow, and cracked from sun exposure

• Not strong enough to stand on — if you step on one, it’ll likely break, and you could fall into the well

These are fine if you just want to keep debris and rain out, but they’re not a safe or long-lasting solution.

Option 2: Polycarbonate Window Well Covers

Polycarbonate covers are essentially thicker, stronger versions of the plastic covers. They’re clear, allow light in, and are usually marketed as “unbreakable” or “impact-resistant.”

Pros:

• Lets in natural light

• Keeps debris and water out

• Can hold around 100–200 lbs, enough to prevent small children or pets from falling in

Cons:

• Still can’t support the full weight of an adult

• Clear material often looks unpolished — oversized covers can overlap awkwardly and reveal imperfections

• Can become scratched, fogged, or discolored over time

If you don’t mind replacing them every few years and you’re mainly worried about leaves and rain, polycarbonate is a middle-of-the-road option.

Option 3: Metal Window Well Grates (The Best All-Around Solution)

If you want something that looks good, lasts for years, and actually protects people from falling in, a metal window well cover (or grate) is the top choice.

Metal window well grates offer:

• Full safety protection — can hold up to 400 lbs

• Strength to support adults, kids, and pets

• Natural airflow and light

• Long-term durability — no cracking, fading, or warping

• A clean, finished look that complements your landscaping

Unlike clear plastic covers, metal grates hide imperfections around the well. They’re visually appealing, don’t yellow or fog, and are built to last for years without maintenance.

At Feldhawk, our steel mesh window well covers are designed to handle the real-world conditions your home faces — sun, snow, rain, and the occasional misplaced step. Each cover is powder-coated to resist rust and corrosion, offering a combination of strength and style that cheap plastic can’t match.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to window well safety, cheap fixes often cost more in the long run.

• Wood boards: Unsafe, temporary, and unattractive

• Thin plastic: Keeps debris out but can’t handle weight or weather

• Polycarbonate: Better, but still not ideal for safety or appearance

• Metal covers: The only truly safe, durable, and long-lasting option

If you’re serious about protecting your family — and keeping your home looking its best — a steel window well cover from Feldhawk is the smart investment.

👉 Shop durable, powder-coated steel window well covers:Explore Feldhawk Window Well Covers