Whether you’re installing new windows in a home that’s in the process of being built or you’re replacing the windows in an existing home, accurate measurements are always a must. The window needs to fit properly in the opening to help prevent air leaks and stop insects from entering the home.
Thankfully, measuring and replacing a window doesn’t have to be a headache. Just follow the basic guidelines and record exact measurements, and the entire process will go smoothly. Here are our tips for how to measure for replacement windows.
What Needs to Be Measured?
When learning how to measure for new windows, there are three things you need to focus on most – height, width, and depth. Accurately measure these three things, and you will enjoy a much easier time ordering and installing your windows.
How to Measure Window Height
When measuring the height of a window, take measurements from the high point of the window’s sill to the top of the window opening. Measure once at the left side, once at the center of the window, and once at the right side of the window. The smallest number is what you will use for the window’s height when ordering your replacement window.
How to Measure Window Width
To record the width of a window for replacement, you should measure the space between the jambs at the top, middle, and bottom of the window opening. Measurements need to be taken from the surface of the jambs, not from the trim strips or the parting beads in the old window’s opening.
The numbers from the three spaces should be close to each other, if not the same. If they aren’t the same, then use the smallest of these three measurements as the width when ordering the window.
How to Measure Window Depth
Depth is perhaps the most challenging measurement to take. When recording your measurements, you will want to ignore the pulleys and parting strips because they will be removed when the replacement window is installed. Regardless of the measurement, there must be an opening depth of at least 3 1/4 inches between the inside window trim and the outside blind stop strip. You will need at least this much depth to accept the depth of the new replacement window.
Let Thompson Creek’s Window Experts Handle Everything
Ordering the wrong size windows can cause an array of headaches and costly delays. In many ways, it may just be best not to risk it. Instead, have the window experts at Thompson Creek measure your replacement windows for you. We custom make our replacement windows, so you can be sure the windows we install are perfectly sized for your home.
We have been performing reliable and highly skilled window replacements for more than 35 years. When you choose Thompson Creek as your window company, you get the finest materials installed on your home. Want to learn more? Just call the window experts at Thompson Creek and get a free estimate for your home improvement projects today.