How do I Measure Existing New Construction Windows for Replacement?
Whether you are replacing your new construction windows for enhanced appearance or better functionality, taking accurate measurements of your home's existing windows is vital to the replacement process. Since most windows are custom made after you order them, there are generally no returns or substitutions allowed. Measure every window in the home separately, and record each measurement accurately. Even if all of the windows are supposed to be the same size, there is a good chance they are not.
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Instructions
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How To Measure Windows
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Use a standard measurement tape to record measurements. Use a measuring tape to measure the width of the window. Measure from one jamb to the opposing one, making sure that you clear any existing obstacles that could alter the accuracy of the measurement. Repeat this measurement 3 times, measuring the bottom, middle and top areas of the window. Record the width measurement before proceeding.
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Measure the height of the window from the wood head to the sill. Since the sill will be sloped to some degree, make sure that your measurement is from the highest part of the slope. Repeat the process for measuring height 3 times, once on the left side, once in the middle, and finally on the right. Record all of your measurements.
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Use a tape measure to measure the window on a diagonal. Measure from the bottom left corner to the top right corner. Record this measurement. Repeat the measurement going from the bottom right corner to the top left. There should not be more than a 1/4 inch difference in the two diagonal measurements.
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Use a level to determine adjusted measurements. Use a level to determine the out of square adjustment only if the diagonal measurements were more than 1/4 inch a part. Place the level in the window opening vertically, from the right corner to the sill. Create a plumb line and measure the out of square difference. Record your measurement. Repeat this process from the left corner to the sill.
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Subtract the out of square adjustment from the smallest window width. Subtract the largest out of square measurement from the smallest width measurement to determine your adjusted window width.
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Use the smallest measurements that you obtained for height and width, when ordering new windows. Some manufacturers will require a standard 1/2 or 1/4 inch adjustment from a window's actual measurements. Before doing these calculations talk to the manufacturer or dealer to find out specific deduction requirements. When ordering new windows always provide the width of the window first, followed by the height, in order to prevent errors.
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References
- Photo Credit measuring tape image by Horticulture from Fotolia.com level image by Albert Lozano from Fotolia.com pencil and paper image by Anita P Peppers from Fotolia.com
