Measuring windows for replacement

If you do not know the thickness of your glass pane, you can utilise the industry standard which is 3 mm for a single pane. These are simply estimations, but to get the exact measurement you will need proper window measuring tools or at the very least a window measuring guide for vinyl replacement windows. We are almost there, and no matter if you are looking to answer the question of how do you measure for new windows or how to measure house windows for replacement, you need to check if your window opening is rectangular.

When you need to start measuring for new windows or for replacement with vinyl windows you start measuring from the top left corner to the bottom right corner and write it down. Then, you will measure the top right corner to the bottom left corner and compare.

If these lengths are not equal, then you are dealing with a window opening that is not square or rectangle. We have dealt with six steps when you are considering how to measure window replacement size or simply how to measure home windows, but when it comes to ordering, it all comes down to working with the supplier. You have two choices, you can either go by the manufacturers estimates, which are generally on the smaller side, or you can give exact measurement and request it to be built to those specifications.

The one to remember is that when it comes to measuring and installing replacement windows or vinyl windows, you will need to know what method you are going to be going with when you send along the order to the manufacturer. A quick review for those who are measuring vinyl replacement windows. As you can see, when it comes to how to measure vinyl windows or how to measure my windows for a replacement there is no really simple way to do it.

You will need to measure the horizontal plain and the lining, you will need to measure the height of the window, and then measure the depth of the window. Finally, you will need to measure the shape of the window and finally, decide if you are ordering to manufactures specifications or your own measurements. Therefore, we often suggest to homeowners that they hire professionals for this job!

Professionals can tackle some of the tougher questions you may have, such as:. This is a lifesaver, and we are all about making things a littler easier for our clients!

Final thoughts on window replacement and vinyl window installation. We have provided you with the tools and steps on how to measure vinyl windows and of course the age-old question of how to measure my windows for replacement.

As you may have seen it all comes down to a bit of a science, but truly the art of installers comes down to how to best measure windows for replacement sizes. This is especially true when it comes to older homes and most replacement windows. You need to be able to order a window that will fit, and much of this comes down to experience and expertise. When you ask a professional how to measure windows to replace, they will often start with the math but then move into a discussion about how to best order and install a window that is irregular.

This is because window sittings often warp over time, and even though you were originally dealing with a square hole, in a few decades that square becomes a little more obtuse. Thus, when it comes to your home, and your windows, it is often best to hire a professional window installer. This decision to hire for your vinyl replacement windows will not only save you time, but money, and that is something we can all rally behind.

Make three measurements: one at the left side, one at the center and one at the right side of the window. Use the smallest of these three heights. Measure from the upper right corner of the window opening to the lower left corner.

Do the same for the upper left corner to the lower right. If they are not the same, the window is not square. You will need to take extra care when installing the replacement window that it is level and plumb or it will not open and close easily or operate properly.

Meaning that each corner of the window is 90 degrees and there is an equal length from corner to corner diagonally. Checking the squareness of your window will let the window installers know ahead of time if they will need to add shims or make adjustments to your rough window opening after taking out your old window. So from the top-left corner of the window to the bottom-right corner and vice versa. Take down your measurements and compare. Measuring a window that is curved or has a round top can be a little bit trickier to measure at first, but it is still relatively simple.

There are many different variations of specialty windows but most have some sort of curvature that must be measured for replacement. Start off by measuring the square part of the window first and excluding the arched portion of the window.

Next, take a measurement from the lowest point of the window to the highest point of the arch. This will typically be in the exact center of the window. If you opt for a swinging window—such as a casement or awning window—consider how much exterior space is available.

These windows swing out from your home, so if you try to install one of them at the peak of your roof where overhangs get in the way, it will not work out well. If there is a possible obstruction around the outside of your window opening, make sure you account for it.

Whether your home is built right next to the garage, or you have other parts of the home or yard to work around, keep in mind how much swing space you will need to allow. To do this, simply take the measurements of the window using the steps above and decide what depth, width, and height you need for the window. The depth can be the same as the window measurements, but the height and width of the opening both need to be two inches larger than the window to account for one inch of space on all sides.

This leaves you with space to make adjustments, which will help keep the window level and plumb during installation. With the opening cut to the proper specifications, you will have to build a frame for the window to sit in.

First you will put in a header, and then you will put in cripple studs both above and underneath the rough opening for your window. This will help transfer the weight of your home down through the studs rather than through the window. It is crucial to get the header and cripple studs in place before trying to install a window in the rough opening. Without these, you could put pressure on the window and cause it to warp and possibly break. You can attempt to install replacement windows on your own, but there are a lot of things that can potentially go wrong.

Sure, you will spend a bit more money, but you will save time in the process and benefit from a window warranty when a licensed professional handles the installation. Best of all, you will have peace of mind that your windows will keep your home safe, protected, and comfortable for years to come.

How it works. Plan Your Project. Home Accessibility. Home Security. Home Warranty. Hot Tubs. Kitchen Remodel. Medical Alerts. Stair Lifts. Walk In Tubs. Find local contractors. I'm a contractor. Manage your Project. Ready to start your project?