How to Measure for New Windows

Energy efficiency is one of the biggest reasons for replacing older windows. Choose wood windows that open and close easily and pull out or slide inward for easy cleaning. Accurate measurements are critical when you purchase new wood windows. Install windows on the outside of the house, but measure wood windows inside the house. Use a bendable tape measure and become familiar with the parts of the window.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Put the ruler on the stool of the window to measure the height for new windows. The stool is the interior shelf on the bottom of the window; this shelf widens the horizontal frame or plate of the window called the sill.

2. Take measurements from the window's stool to the highest point of the window at the seam. The seam is between the casing, which is the frame of the window, and the stop or molding nailed to the header under the frame on top of the window.

3. Measure the window on the left, right and in the middle. Use the shortest height.

4. Determine the height and take off 1/4 inch to allow room to square, level and insulate the window.

5. Expand the ruler horizontally to measure the width for new windows. Measure from the left to the right seams found between the side casing and the stop.

6. Check the size at the top, bottom and middle. Use the narrowest measurement and subtract 1/4 inch for allowance to fit the window in the opening.

Tips & Warnings

• Give the width measurement first and then the height when you shop for windows.