How to Measure Windows for Replacement A Step-by-Step Guide

Relieving window or screen repair or replacement isn’t impossible. One of the crucial steps in this process is learning how to measure for replacement windows. Whether a seasoned DIY or just a homeowner who wants to pocket some money, the proper measurement will determine the size of the correct window replacement.
 

In the next few paragraphs, we shall discuss why measurement is essential for your windows and what you will have to prepare to ensure easy measurement. So, when you’re through with this guide, you should have enough knowledge on how to confidently measure windows and order appropriate replacement windows for your house. 

Why You Should Measure Your Windows 

Window replacement in Denver with something that will fit properly in the existing frame, it is better to have perfect measurements. This ensures correct measurements for window installation, hence preventing costly mistakes and headaches in the long run. 

By taking measurements of the windows, homeowners can be certain that the windows they shall purchase shall fit just snugly into those frames, which will help them save on additional labor costs.
 

Measuring windows helps homeowners to shop for windows promptly in the stores and over the phone. It is essential that one comes with the exact measurements at hand when shopping for windows so that the windows purchased are the correct size. 

Preparation to Measure Windows 

It is better to check the condition of the window frames, sills, sashes, and trim before measuring for replacement of windows.
 

Dampness and Water Damage – Appearance of signs that indicate damage to the area through discoloration, paint is peeling or bubbling off, visually obvious rotten wood, difficult or sticky operation in closing or opening, soft to mushy feel in the wood, fogging or condensation cannot be cleared away, loose areas in interior trim corners and lights are appearing at cracks within the frame. 

4 ways to measure windows for replacements 

Measure the window for the replacement according to your needs without the help of window installation services. Here, we are giving you four ways to measure a window for replacement. 

Check whether your windows are square. 

Before measuring for replacement windows, it is first important to know if your window frames are square. To determine this, the diagonal measurements of the window frame should be taken. The process is as follows: 

1. At the top right-hand corner, where both vertical and horizontal trims merge, align one end of the tape measure with it.
2. Keep taut as much as possible and extend across diagonally up to where trims touch each other in the bottom left side and take that reading.
3. Record reading. Another diagonal measuring point from top to bottom right where trims have merged, extending diagonally toward the trims’ union below.
4. Record these and compare the two.

If both measurements come out to the same within a 1/4-inch difference, the window frame is square, and replacement windows can be ordered for a proper fit. Otherwise, the window frame will need to be replaced before, or instead, a new-construction window will need to be ordered rather than the replacement window. 

Measure Window Width 

Measure the window from left, right, and bottom. The measurement of window width is then done by: 

1. Open the sash and consider the vertical sections making up sides of the frame which the sash travels up and down- these are jambs.
2. Measure parallel with the tapes from jambs along the inside of it and then towards the bottom of the window.
3. Shut the window and measure the middle and top of the window.
4. Make a comparison with width, then measure and record the shortest of all three. This is the actual width of the window opening.

Measure Window Height 

To take a precise measurement of a window opening height, measurements from the windowsill have to be taken since the sash will rest when it is closed. Moreover, accessing the windowsill can only be done when opening the window. Ahead is the guide on how you can measure window height: 

1. Begin on the left-hand side of the window, working your way from the bottom up.
2. Omitting the frame and trim, take the reading.
3. Again, follow steps 1 and 2.
4. Compare all three height measurements and note down the smallest number. This is the actual opening height of the window.

Measure Window Screens 

Measuring for window screens would depend on whether or not the window already has a screen. If the window already contains a screen that is in a damaged state, it would only require measuring the width and height of the existing screen. 

If you want to add a screen to a window, follow these steps: 

1. Measure straight horizontally to figure out the distance between the screen channels.
2. Subtract 1/8 inch from the measurement. This is the width dimension.
3. Uplift the window sash and take measurements up from the lip.
4. Add 1/8 inch to the measurement. This is the height dimension.

With these steps, you can take measurements for the replacement of the window, and you will get what you want as perfect measurements. 

How to Properly Record Window Measurements 

In measuring windows for replacement, getting the right measurement is crucial to ensure an excellent fit. 

Use the measuring tape and record each of your measurements. Do not use a ruler or yardstick for measuring because such instruments are only good to some extent. 

Take down each of your measurement’s width by height in the nearest 1/8 inch.  

Assume your window stands at 60 inches tall while it is 34 inches in width. This would be your measurement as recorded: 34 inches x 60 inches. 

Label each set of measurements with the exact window location, for example, “east side bedroom window.” Even if all windows in a room appear to be the same size, they may have slightly different measurements. 

Measure each window separately before ordering new windows to ensure that you get the right size for each window or call get window installation services.