Proper window wells keep Calgary basements bright and dry — correct sizing, drainage and covers prevent water problems and meet egress requirements for basement bedrooms. Here's what to know.
Window Wells: Functional, Not Just Required
Window wells are required for below-grade egress windows and help bring light into basement spaces. Done right, they’re a feature. Done wrong, they’re a flooding hazard.
Types of Window Wells
Galvanized Steel (Semi-Circle)
- Most common, cheapest option
- Sizes: 36″ to 60″ wide, 8″ to 22″ projection
- Cost: $80–$400 for the well alone
- Installed: $1,200–$2,500 total
Composite / Resin
- Looks like stone, won’t rust or corrode
- Better appearance, longer life
- Cost: $200–$600 for the well
Custom Stone or Concrete
- Stacked stone, block, or poured concrete
- Permanent, premium look, fully custom
- Cost: $1,500–$6,000 installed
Sizing Requirements for Calgary
Per Alberta Building Code for egress window wells:
- Minimum 550mm (22″) clearance from window face to well wall
- Window well must allow the window to fully open
- If deeper than 1.5m (59″), a permanent ladder or steps required
- Well should be sized to allow emergency exit (600mm × 600mm minimum interior)
Drainage: The Most Important Factor
A window well without drainage is a rain barrel. Calgary spring melt and heavy rain events will fill them quickly.
- Install 6–12″ of washed gravel at the bottom of the well
- Connect to weeping tile if possible
- If no weeping tile: vertical drain pipe through bottom of well to daylight or drywell
- Grade soil away from the well at 1″ per foot for 6 feet
Window Well Covers
A clear polycarbonate dome cover:
- Keeps out rain, snow, debris, and small animals
- Lets light through
- Required to break free from inside for egress (no locks)
- Cost: $50–$200 per cover
Full Window Well Installation Cost in Calgary
| Type | Installed Cost |
|---|---|
| Standard steel well + drainage + cover | $1,500–$3,000 |
| Composite well + drainage + cover | $2,000–$3,500 |
| Custom stone well + drainage | $3,000–$7,000 |
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⚠ Estimate Disclaimer: These are only ROUGH estimates that can vary wildly. Do not take these numbers as gospel. Having a defined scope of work and exact selections will give you clarity.
Costs include excavation, well installation, gravel drainage, and backfill. Egress window cut-in is separate (see our egress window guide).
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Frequently asked questions
They let in light, provide egress, and — with proper drainage — keep water out.
Large enough to meet code for a basement bedroom exit; we size them to current requirements.
Yes — proper drainage is what prevents water pooling and leaks.
Covers keep out debris, rain and snow while still allowing egress.
Related reading: egress windows, basement waterproofing, and basement permits