“Measure twice, cut once.” If you’ve ever heard this popular saying, you know how important accurate measurements are to any home improvement project. Learn how to measure for replacement windows so that you can get it right the first time.
How to Measure for Replacement Windows
There are plenty of reasons a homeowner might want to replace their windows. Maybe they’re interested in taking advantage of a special window feature, like noise reduction. Maybe they’re remodeling, or their windows have just reached the end of their natural lifespan. No matter why you’re replacing your windows, it’s a good idea to learn how to install them correctly. Learning how to measure for replacement windows is the first step.
Step One: Check for Square
Before you plan to install replacement windows, it’s a good idea to make sure your window frame is in good shape. If your window frame is “in square,” it means that all four corners have a 90-degree angle and your replacement window will fit snugly inside. To check this, measure diagonally from the top left corner to the bottom right, then repeat the measurement with the other corners. If the two measurements are within a fourth of an inch of each other, you’re all set. If your window frame isn’t in square, you have some other repairs to do first.
Step Two: Measure the Window’s Width, Height, and Depth
In order to obtain a window that will fit perfectly, you will need to measure the existing window’s width, height, and depth:
- In order to determine the window’s width, measure the existing window’s width at the top, bottom, and middle of the window. Be sure to place the tape measure along the window jambs for an accurate measurement!
- Repeat this process with a vertical orientation to determine the window’s height. You will want to measure the height at the far left, far right, and middle of the window. Again, use the jamb to align your measurements correctly.
- Window depth isn’t always an important measurement to get, but if you need it, you’ll be happy you have it. You can determine this measurement by opening the window and measuring from the front of the trim outside to the back of the trim inside.
Step Three: Round the Smallest Numbers Down
Once your measurements are complete, there’s one final tweak that will make them exact. Take a look at your length and width measurements, and determine which of them are the smallest. Round these measurements down to the nearest eighth of an inch. If they are already at an eighth of an inch, you should not have to make any further adjustments.
Step Four: Purchase Your New Windows from a Business You Can Trust
Once you have those measurements figured out, you have all of the information you need in order to purchase your replacement windows. However, that doesn’t mean you’re on your own. If you work with a company like American Window Company to purchase replacements, we’ll be there every step of the way. We’ll verify your measurements, give you advice on replacements, and find the help you need to install them if necessary.
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Figuring out how to measure for replacement windows is only the first part of a comprehensive window update. If you’re a homeowner looking for help, look no further than American Window Company. With over 20 years of experience installing windows, we have the skills and supplies you need to make your project a reality.
Are you in need of high-quality window installation? Check out American Window Company. Since 1999, we have offered an extensive collection of high-quality windows, doors, shutters, blinds, and more. We are a small, family-owned business that is committed to providing excellent workmanship and on-time installation. In addition, we are properly licensed and insured to protect our employees and provide our customers with peace of mind. For a free estimate or more information about our products and services, please contact us today.