Clear covers or standard grates? You’re a responsible homeowner and want to keep your window well safe, attractive and positively impacting your home’s value. While you’re not required by law to install a protecting barrier between the ground level of your landscape and your window well, it’s a nice gesture—especially if there are children, pets or wild animals in the neighborhood. Some window wells are exceptionally deep and impossible for little ones (furry or not) to get out of on their own. The answer is obvious: Get a protective covering. But which one? There are two primary types of covers—clear covers and standard grates. Both have upsides, and there’s no one-size-fits-all option for homeowners. You may want to take into consideration the aesthetics of your home. For modern architecture, sleek designs and contemporary taste, a clear cover can seamlessly blend into the picture. However, a more classic home such as Victorian or one with traditional touches (like exposed brick) can complement a grate very well. A Case for Clear Clear covers offer an obvious bonus: There’s no way anyone (or anything) is getting into your window well as long as the cover is well maintained and of high quality. Even the tiniest debris speck will be kept out, which makes cleaning your window well as easy as can be. Better yet, there’s virtually nothing “blocking” the sunlight, so if your window well faces an area of the home like the kitchen window or basement turned rec room, you’ll get maximum natural light. However, clear covers aren’t immune to hard water stains, mud or getting dirty. Yes, the best options are dirt resistant, but they’re no match for a winter storm. This means you’ll need to regularly clean clear covers if you want maximum beauty and natural light. It’s not a big deal—after all, the actual surface space is small, but it’s something to consider. Plus, if you live in a region with snow, it’s another spot you may want to add to your snow-brushing regimen. Grates are Great! With a standard grate, of course debris and perhaps even smaller animals can get trapped inside your window well. This means you’ll be faced with regular (albeit not non-stop) window well cleanings. However, there won’t be any need to keep a cover clear from debris, snow or dirt. Grates are also an elegant touch to many homes and will never look outdated. On the other hand, only you can decide if you want to add window well cleaning onto your regular to-do list. For many homeowners, it’s a quick and easy task, but for others (such as the elderly or those with mobility issues), it’s not worth the hassle. Making the Call Still can’t decide? Talk to a local window well liner, cover and grate expert to discuss your needs, habits and exactly what you want out of your window well care routine. There’s a great option for every homeowner, and it might not necessarily be what you expect. However, what’s most important is getting that veritable pit outside your home secured. Unfortunately, if someone gets hurt on your property, such as a neighborhood kid falling in and breaking their arm, you might be legally responsible. Protect yourself, your home and the neighborhood with window well security.
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