When choosing windows for your home, you should consider them as a crucial part of your home design, as they affect how your home looks, feels, and conserves energy. It doesn’t matter if you’re building a new house, renovating or replacing your windows from years past, understanding window sizes is important. This guide will discuss standard window sizes, factors that can affect them, how to accurately measure, and when to consider custom solutions for your home.
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Understanding typical window sizes can help homeowners when it’s time to plan and budget for window installation projects. Dimensions vary slightly by manufacturer, but here’s what to expect in terms of common sizes for assorted window types:
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows are the most common, with two operable sashes for ventilation. Common measurements are:
Widths: 24 to 48 inches
Heights: 36 to 72 inches
Casement Windows
Casement windows are windows that open outward and are perfect for a cool summer breeze, a fresh autumn day or to let in some crisp winter air. Their standard sizes are:
Widths: 16 to 36 inches
Heights: 24 to 72 inches
Picture Windows
Picture windows, which are mostly used for views and natural light, often are fixed and do not open. Their sizes are:
Widths and Heights (Square): 24” – 96”
Rectangular Panoramic Options: Widths up to 120 inches, Heights up to 96 inches
Sliding Windows
Sliding windows: These windows slide horizontally in and out and are often used in bedrooms or basements.
Widths: 36 to 84 inches
Heights: 24 to 60 inches
Awning Windows
Awning windows operate on a hinge at the top and swing outward, so you can keep them open to let fresh in air during wet weather. They are normally approximately:
Widths: 20 to 48 inches
Heights: 24 to 60 inches
Bay and Bow Windows
It projects out from the house and many times integrates several types of windows, perhaps casement and double-hung. Rough sizes are:
Widths (combined): 42 and 144 inches
Height (per unit): 48 to 72 inches
Bear in mind, though, that these sizes are averages, and it is possible that certain manufacturers will have slightly different options, so make sure to check their specifications.
Determinants of Window Length
There are few things you can take into consideration when determining the right size windows for your home. Here’s what to know:
Architectural Style
Window size and placement are largely dictated by the design of your home. For instance:
- A large picture window to showcase clean, minimalist lines and allow maximum natural light.
- Earlier architectural designs, such as Colonial or Victorian, may lean toward the use of smaller, equal-sized double-hung windows.
Room Function
The only other factor that can influence the size of the window is the function of the room:
- Living Rooms and Dining Areas may have larger windows, such as bay or picture windows, for views and light.
- Bathrooms tend to have smaller windows for privacy, but can also contain frosted or obscure glass.
Code and Other Requirements
When choosing window sizes, local building codes are key, particularly in rooms specified as bedrooms. Egress (exit) windows have a standard size, which is:
- Min width and height:20 inches wide x 24 inches high
- Total air inlet area:5.7 square feet
- Please check your LOCAL building codes and regulations for specific load support.
Energy Efficiency
Houses in cold climate conditions will receive heat from smaller windows and those in sunnier regions will have very large shaded windows for the best cross ventilation.
How To Measure For Windows Correctly
A precise fit is essential to the proper functioning of your new windows. Follow these guidelines to measure properly:
Step 1. Measure Width
- Take 3 horizontal measurements within the frame at the top, middle and bottom.
- Write down the lowest one for accuracy.
Step 2. Measure Height
- Do the same, vertically at the left, the center and the right hand sides of the window.
- As before, take the smallest of the measurements for the height.
Step 3. Check for Squareness
Measure from the top-left to the bottom-right corner and from top-right to the bottom-left corner. A large deviation means there is some squareness issue you should correct.
Step 4. Depth Considerations
Check the depth from inside the house to the outside stops (or jambs). The overall opening depth of the window complies with the manufacturer’s specifications.
Pro tip: Verify all measurements and discuss with your manufacturer or contractor before you place an order.
Custom Window Sizes
Some times regular sizes just won’t fit! Custom windows are good for more irregularly shaped or nonstandard window openings.
Pros of Custom Windows
Perfect Fit: Optimize for odd sized or shaped openings.
Advanced aesthetics: Customize with design, frame, and finish options to Find the perfect look for your home.
Enhanced Functionality: Customize for energy efficiency or additional ventilation.
Cons of Custom Windows
Higher Prices: For custom sizes, expect to pay 20–50% higher pricing as opposed to standard sizing.
Longer Lead Times: It usually has longer lead time to custom-make products and lead to shipping time.
When to opt for custom windows? If you’re collaborating with an architect on a custom design, replacing unusually shaped windows, or seeking a high-end look, custom could be the way to go.
Easily Add New Habits to Your New Windows
Whether you’re selecting traditional double-hung windows or building a dream space from custom dimensions, learning the ins and outs of window sizing is the place to start if you want to make the most informed choice.
From increasing natural light to improving energy efficiency, windows play an important role in many aspects of your home. Please keep in mind that exact measures are crucial for replacements, and custom solutions could be found within your design. Need help? If so, seek advice tailored to your situation from an expert or a contractor.
Want to take offers on your home’s windows to the next level? Browse our collection of resources on energy efficient windows or contact a pro to move toward a space that sift so practical and beautiful.
