Egress Area Wall...What is it and how to install it correctly.

First the disclaimer, IMPORTANT Check local building codes regarding egress area wall standards and requirements before making one of these installations.

In selecting a well it is most important to make sure the unit is wide enough on the inside to grant clear view and movement of the window. It is also typical code that the well project at least 36” out from the foundation to accommodate access out of the window. Lastly the unit must have some type of built in steps or ladder to accommodate climbing out of the hole.

Excavation Dig the area, centered across the window opening, to allow adequate work space and clearance for the window well. Drainage is required. If a perimeter drainage system exist tie into this system by means of a 6" capped pipe extension up from the drain line to the base of the well (figure A) (Drainage components not supplied) If no existing system exists an area below the wall should be excavated to the top of the footing and filled with pea stone or clean free-draining rock or else make provisions to direct drainage away from the egress to well drained soils. Mounting Mark two lines (see figure B of your well model) on each side of window at the dimension shown. Exceeding flange width placement shown in pattern (B) of your well will cause the cover not to fit or not fit properly. Clean foundation of fir, debris or excess concrete that would interfere with mounting flange having full contact with foundation wall. Install using 3/8" X 2- 3/4" or larger wedge anchors or Tapcon screws (not provided) into the pre-drilled hole locations on each flange. Use 1" washers on all screws or anchors.

Post - Installation Requirements Using pea stone, start by backfilling the wall by hand starting at the furthermost area from the foundation. Evenly distribute the stone as you fill the well. Also fill the inside of your well to the desired elevation. (see figure A) Top 6 inches can be backfilled with top soil Slope final grade away from egress in all directions Avoid locating down spouts or sump discharge near egress.



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