How to Measure for Replacement Windows

How to Measure for Replacement Windows

September 4, 2020
By:
Martin Whitmore, President of US Window & Door
measure for replacement windows

It’s no secret that windows are an incredibly important part of your home. They help bring light and warmth to your home and help keep the elements out. Unfortunately, all windows have a lifespan, and there comes a time when they need to be replaced.

When you start the replacement process, the first thing you need to do is to take measurements of your current windows so you know which size to select. Measurements must be done properly to make sure that your new windows fit correctly. Read on to learn how to measure for replacement windows!

Start with the Width

You might think that you just need to measure the bottom of your window and be done with it. That’s not the case! You actually want to make sure that the width of your window is uniform by measuring it in three different spots.

Start by measuring at the bottom of the window. Partially open the window and measure from jamb to jamb and then open the window fully to measure the middle of the window in the same way.

Finally, close the window and measure from jamb to jamb at the highest point of the window. Circle the shortest of the three measurements.

Follow with Window Height and Depth

Next, you’ll want to get measurements for the window’s height and its depth.

Like the width measurement, you’ll also want to measure in three places for the height measurement. Measure from the head jamb to the bottom sill on the far left and the far right, and again in the middle. Remember that the sill is the board that the window rests upon and that you’ll need to open the window to reach it.

Depth is not often measured for window replacements. However, if you have a mobile home or modular home, then it’s important to make sure that the replacement window isn’t too narrow. In those cases, open the window and measure the sill space from the front to the back.

As with the width, circle the shortest measurement.

Measure the Window Sill Angle

Your last measurement will be the degree of the window. Most windows should have all four corners at 90-degree angles. If you don’t know when to replace windows, then angle measurements that are out of whack should be the first sign.

The best way to measure the angle is to purchase an angle finder. Place the angle finder in each corner of the window and mark down the measurements. If your windows are no longer at 90-degree angles, then you need to have the window installer come out to give you a quote for getting the angle corrected.

Round Down

When you’re taking measurements, it’s important to round your circled measurements down to the nearest 1/8 of an inch. The only exception to this rule is if your original measurement is already in an eighth-inch increment. Save your rounded numbers and use them to order your new windows!

triple-pane windows

Learning How to Measure for Replacement Windows Isn’t Complicated!

Learning how to measure for replacement windows might sound like a difficult task, but in reality, it’s quite simple! Always remember to round down and you’ll be good to go. Don’t forget to measure the angle!

Are you interested in learning more about keeping your home and its windows in good shape? You’re in the right place! Check out the rest of our blog for everything you need to know!