Measuring for Replacement Window Inserts
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When it's Time to Replace
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Drafty old sashes, inefficient aluminum frames, rusty iron casements or just a need to update---all are reasons to consider replacement windows. With the cost of heating and the improvements in window technology, some windows really do pay for themselves in as few as five years. Before shopping for replacement windows, though, take a close look at the exterior of your house. Your windows, called "lights," exist in a balance with the other surfaces of the house that is determined by the style of the house, habit of the designer or dictates of the owner. These factors make your house unique, so first, you should measure the total area of lights compared to the face of the house. Try to maintain these ratios because buying the wrong-sized windows can ruin the look of your house.
Measure Twice, Order Once
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Most windows are pre-assembled on frames to set into the opening between two studs, a header and sill. Some framing can be moved to make the window opening larger or smaller but some requires extra filling inside the original opening or considerable carpentry to move the studs. Measurements should reflect this opening accurately so that the new window assembly can be easily slipped in, leveled and secured. Measurements should be taken from stud to stud across the top, middle and bottom of the frame and from the header to the sill, right left and center. The narrowest width and shortest height will be the dimensions for the new window frame. Since the sill slants downward slightly toward the exterior of the house, all vertical measurements should be anchored on the sill right behind the apron (the inside piece of the trim that the kids call the "windowsill.") The reason the smaller measures are used is that it's easier to brace the frame with "shims" (little slivers of wood used to level the window in the frame) than it is to shave a quarter of an inch off a window frame or move a stud or header. Since every window is a bit different, every window must be measured and recorded in the same manner.
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Storm Windows and Other Considerations
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Storm windows sit in a different place in the window frame, further down the slope of the sill. If storm windows separate from the new main window assembly, measurements must be taken at the position where the new storm window will sit. First measure the width between the jambs (sides of the frame) at top and bottom, then the height (between head jamb and sill) on each side of the window. In addition the opening should be measured vertically in the center to check for any sagging in the head jamb and diagonal measurements in both directions across the window are needed to insure that the replacements will fit non-square windows. When windows are ordered, be sure to include information about workable window shutters or hurricane shutters.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Window & Door Manufacturers Association, Lowes, City Glass
