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Knowing how to measure for replacement windows is key to a proper fit for your Dayton home. Read on to find out what measurements you need and when to call a professional.
Even the best windows only work properly if they’re correctly sized. Windows that are even a tiny bit too small for your home won’t seal well, and those that are too large simply won’t fit. If you’re planning to order replacement windows for your home, it’s essential to know how to measure for replacement windows so that you don’t waste your investment on windows that slide down in the frames or let cold air seep inside. .
There are three main measurements you’ll need to take: (make all of your measurements to the nearest 1/16th of an inch)
A window’s width is the horizontal distance between the jambs, which are structural supports located just inside the window frames. It may house your window’s hinges or tracks, depending on the style of window. Use a tape measure to measure from the inside of one jamb to the inside of the other jamb at three points: near the top of the window, about halfway down the window, and near the bottom of the window. Make sure you’re measuring from jamb to jamb and not including any trim strips or caulking. Choose the smallest of these three measurements; that’s your official width measurement. (Measuring three times ensures you don’t get a false measurement because an older window has sunk in or broken down a bit.)
The distance from the sill to the top of the window opening is a window’s height. As with the width, it is important to measure the height three times in case a portion of the window has begun to decay or break down. Measure it all of the way to the left side of the window, stretching your tape measure from the very base of the sill to the top of the window. Also measure again in the center of the window and all of the way to the right. Use the smallest of these three measurements as your window’s official height.
The depth is the amount of space between the two stops within the window frame. You’ll have to take this measurement with the window open. Just stretch your tape measure across the open window, and measure from inside to outside. Most windows are about 3 to 4 inches deep, but it is important to measure this size precisely to the nearest 1/16th of an inch so that you order windows that fit. You only have to measure the window depth once, not three times like the height and width.
In some homes, all of the windows are the same size. In other homes, the sizes vary, sometimes even by small amounts. It is important to measure each window and not just assume that they’re all the same.
Learning how to measure for replacement windows takes some practice. If you’re not particularly up on your DIY skills and don’t have a lot of construction experience, it’s probably best to leave this task to the professionals—like those at Renewal by Andersen. Our qualified technicians are specially trained how to measure for replacement windows and can come give you a free, in-home estimate. They will measure your windows precisely to ensure the right sizes are ordered. Each window is custom-made according to your home’s needs.
At Renewal by Andersen, all of our estimates include the price of installation, so you can be confident that your windows fit properly. We even back our windows with a 10-year warranty on installation, in addition to our 20-year warranty on glass. Contact us today to schedule your free, in-home consultation.