Windows - measure up
Windows - measure up
When you go to buy new windows, avoid a major headache and measure carefully first. This buyer’s guide will explain just how to take measurements so that you’re assured a good fit.
Taking measurements is an important and essential step. It’s also not very hard to do. New construction or renovation; both will impact how you take your measurements, as will the type of exterior cladding on the house.
Measurements you need before buying a window
As shown in the illustration, measure the window opening at three different locations for width, height, and depth. If the three measurements are not the same, take the shortest measurement.
- Carefully measure the distances between studs and the size of masonry openings. Your dealer will deduct an inch from the outer dimensions (height and width) when your order is taken.
- Place a level on the window threshold and check whether it’s level.
- Use a square to see if all the corners are all perfectly square.
Remove the interior frames.
- As shown in the illustration, measure the window opening at three different locations for interior and exterior width, interior and exterior height, and depth. If the three measurements are not the same, take the shortest measurement. Your dealer will deduct approximately 1/2" from the exterior measurements (height and width) when your order is taken.
- Measure the height of the sill (distance from the floor to the bottom of the window).
Remove the interior frames.
- As shown in the illustration, measure the window opening at three different locations for interior and exterior width, interior and exterior height, and depth. If the three measurements are not the same, take the shortest measurement. Your dealer will deduct approximately 1/2" from the exterior measurements (height and width) when your order is taken
- Measure the height of the sill (distance from the floor to the bottom of the window).