Window Well Flooding: Sandbag Protection in Edmonton
A window well is a small target with a big consequence: once it fills, water can press against the basement window. Protect the uphill approach first—do not bury a fragile cover under a random pile of bags.
Why window wells fill during storms
Roof discharge, driveway splash, and lawn sheet flow often meet at the lowest well. A clogged well drain, missing cover, or landscaping that slopes toward the house makes the problem worse. Before stacking anything, clear debris from the well and confirm the cover sits securely. Bags are a perimeter tool, not a lid replacement.
Never load a heavy stack directly on a thin plastic cover. Collapse risk and injury outweigh any short-term seal. Build on solid ground around the well instead.
Build an uphill arc
Measure the uphill edge and both side approaches. A practical starting line is an arc that intercepts water before it drops into the well, with short wings that turn flow toward a safe lawn area. Use staggered courses and overlap ends. Keep bags off the cover and leave space so you can still inspect the well after rain.
- Secure or replace a damaged cover before the storm season.
- Clear the well drain of leaves and silt when it is safe to do so.
- Redirect nearby downspouts away from the well.
- Estimate bags with returns—often 10–12 for a small two-course arc.
See quantity examples for window wells and stacking technique.
Order ready bags before the warning
Pre-filled 18 kg hessian bags from Edmonton Sandbags cost $5.99 each with a 10-bag minimum—enough for many single-well responses. Pickup is 24/7 at 4315 118 Ave NW, Edmonton. Call 1-888-552-7263 or use the quote page for delivery. Stage bags under cover near the well’s dry access path so you are not carrying loads across flowing water.
After the storm
Check whether water still entered under the cover or through a cracked pane. Vacuum standing water only when electrical safety allows. Improve permanent drainage: longer downspout extensions, better grading, or a professional well drain service. Sandbags reduce exposure; they do not replace a failed drain.
FAQ
Should I put sandbags on top of the window well cover?
No. Place bags on solid ground on the uphill side so you do not crush or collapse the cover.
How many bags for one window well?
Many small two-course arcs start around 10–12 bags including short wings; measure your uphill approach.
Do bags fix a clogged well drain?
No. Clear or repair the drain; bags only divert surface water approaching the well.
