If you have a basement in Long Island or New York City, you probably already have a window well. But many homeowners do not realize there are two very different types: regular window wells and egress window wells.
They may look similar, but they serve different purposes. One is mainly for drainage and light. The other is about safety and building code requirements.
If you are finishing your basement, adding a bedroom, or planning renovations, understanding the difference is very important.
Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Is a Regular Window Well?
A regular window well is the curved or rectangular space outside a basement window that holds the soil back. It keeps dirt from pressing directly against the glass.
Most regular window wells are made of metal, plastic, or concrete. At the bottom, there is usually gravel to help water drain away.
Regular window wells allow natural light and fresh air to enter your basement. They also help prevent soil and rainwater from pushing against the window.
However, regular window wells are usually small. They are not designed to be used as an emergency exit.
What Is an Egress Window Well?
An egress window well is larger and built for safety.
The word “egress” means exit. An egress window well is designed to allow someone to safely escape from the basement in an emergency, such as a fire.
These window wells must meet specific size and safety requirements. In many cases, they include a built-in ladder or steps so a person can climb out easily.
If you are turning your basement into a bedroom, most local building codes in Long Island and NYC require an egress window and window well. This is not optional. It is about life safety.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency also emphasizes the importance of safe exits and proper water management around basement openings to reduce flooding and emergency risks.
The Main Differences
The biggest difference between a regular window well and an egress window well is size and purpose.
A regular window well is smaller and mainly protects against soil and water. An egress window well is larger and designed so a person can fit through it and escape safely.
Egress window wells usually require permits because they involve structural changes. Regular window wells may not.
If you are only replacing an old window well with the same size, it may be considered a simple repair. But if you are enlarging the opening or cutting into the foundation, you will likely need approval from your local building department.
When Do You Need an Egress Window Well?
You typically need an egress window well if you are creating a legal basement bedroom.
In Nassau County, Suffolk County, Brooklyn, and Queens, basement bedrooms must have a proper emergency exit. A small regular window well will not pass inspection.
You may also need one if you are converting your basement into a rental unit or finishing it as living space.
If you are unsure, it is always better to check before starting work. Fixing a failed inspection later can be expensive.
Common Problems We See in Long Island and NYC
At Zavza Seal, we often see homeowners with window wells that are too small, poorly installed, or missing proper drainage.
Some window wells fill up with water after heavy rain. Others have no ladder installed, even though they are meant to be used as egress. In older homes, rusted metal wells can shift or pull away from the foundation.
These issues can lead to basement leaks, foundation damage, and even code violations.
Because Long Island and NYC get heavy rain and have many older homes, window well problems are very common.
Why Professional Installation Matters?
Installing an egress window well is not just about digging a hole and placing metal around it.
It often requires cutting into the foundation wall, reinforcing the opening, installing proper drainage, adding gravel, sealing against water intrusion, and making sure everything meets local code.
If the drainage is done incorrectly, the window well can collect water and cause basement flooding.
If the size does not meet code, it may fail inspection.
Professional installation protects your home and avoids future problems.
Need an Egress Window Well Installed or Upgraded?
If you are planning a basement renovation or adding a bedroom, it is important to make sure your window well meets safety requirements.
Zavza Seal specializes in egress window wells and basement waterproofing throughout Long Island and New York City. Our team understands local building codes and knows how to install systems that are both safe and watertight.
We provide clear recommendations and honest guidance so you know exactly what your home needs.
If you are unsure whether you need a regular window well or an egress window well, we can help.
Contact Zavza Seal today to schedule a free inspection and make sure your basement is safe, dry, and fully compliant.
