DMac shares his home improvement expertise

With COVID-19 still playing a big part in our lives, we have to continuously find ways around obstacles to make things run smoothly. The same goes for window replacements. In order to reduce as much physical contact as possible, it may be necessary that you measure your home windows yourself before hiring a contractor. This blog will go over how to measure home replacement windows so that your window installation transpires in an efficient way!

How to Measure Home Replacement Windows

With the way things are with the pandemic, the processes of home improvement projects are taking longer than they would in normal circumstances. However, there are ways where you can significantly speed up the process, such as doing a few steps yourself. Many homeowners are taking the measurements of their windows themselves to speed up the window installation process for their windows contractors. However, although this helps boost the process, many homeowners measure their windows wrong, thus making the process even longer and more expensive. That’s why in this blog, we’ll show you step-by-step the proper way to measure your home windows.

1. Measure Horizontally

The first step is to take three horizontal measurements of the window frame for the rough opening width.

• Measure the horizontal distance of the top, middle, and bottom of your window from each side jamb.
• Circle the smallest measurement out of the three figures
• The smallest measurement is considered your rough opening width. This is the measurement you should refer to when purchasing the right-sized window.

*Tip: Always list the width measurement before height.

2. Measure Vertically

The second step is to take three vertical measurements of the window frame for the rough opening height.

• Measure the vertical distance across the frame from the left, middle, and right sides. Be sure to measure from the head jamb to the window sill.
• Circle the smallest measurement of the three figures.

*Tip: If your window is slightly sloped, then measure from the highest point of the window sill. This is usually right against the window.

3. Measure Depth

The third step is to measure the window opening’s depth. Measuring the correct depth is important because many windows may be too deep to fit into a replacement window opening.

• Run a tape measure from the outside of the frame to the inside. Take the measurement from edge to edge of the window frame.
• Do this for various locations around the window frame and rely on the smallest measurement as your final dimension.

*Tip: If you cannot open your window, then measure the depth of each side of the glass and add them together. Then add the thickness of the window glass. A single glass pane is usually 1/8” of 3mm thick.

The Importance of Precision

It is essential that you get your window measurements exactly right because failing to do so can make your home subject to drafts, which will expose your home to the elements, reduce your home’s comfort, and increase your energy bills. The exact way to measure your windows at 100% precision cannot be obtained by reading a how-to. Every window and home structure is different, which may require different means of doing things. Established skill sets and years of experience make for the best window replacements as window measurements are more likely to be precise, thus ensuring superior energy efficiency. That’s why it is always best to leave it in the hands of professionals like Family Home Improvements! There are fewer risks and you’re better guaranteed a quality, energy-efficient windows installation.

It’s good to know how to measure your windows yourself for extreme scenarios; however, the best thing you can do is leave it in the hands of window professionals. We hope this blog helped you see how to measure home replacement windows. If you’re thinking about replacing your windows, feel free to contact us. We guarantee you a top-notch window installation that will ensure that you enjoy the perks that come with a proper installation, such as a more comfortable home and energy savings! Give us a call at (562) 464-0684 or click here.