You’ve made the decision to replace your home’s windows and doors, and now you’re asking yourself how do I measure them for replacement? Proper measurement of windows is essential in successfully installing new or replacement windows in a home. Because of the importance of having your windows built to the exact size necessary to ensure optimal performance, we always recommend you hire a professional to tackle the job because more goes into the project than many people realize. And, if the custom-built replacement window does not fit perfectly, you will be responsible for this, and may then need a new one built or the existing opening modified to make it fit (which defeats the purpose of having a custom window made in the first place).

Even if you’re planning to hire a contractor to do the job, you may want to know how to measure for replacement windows to ensure you get the right size. Following these Ranebrook Windows guidelines will help to ensure precision and therefore, the best performance of your new windows. There are mainly two different ways in which windows will be originally installed: Brick-to-brick and Behind-the-reveal.

brick to brick

Most of side hung windows and doors are installed Brick-to-brick. Usually in this case, you can see about 20-40mm of visible brick showing on the outside.

As these windows are installed between the brick, you need to have the measurement of the external brickwork opening and deduct 10-15mm both in width and height.

Most Sash windows are installed behind the brick reveal. In this case, you will see the full width of the brick visible from the outside.

Even if these windows are installed behind the brick, you still need to measure the external brickwork opening and then add the size of the sash frame that will be hidden. For each sash window type, this size can be different. One more important detail to keep in mind is the existing internal opening size. You need to make sure that there is sufficient clearance for the new frame.

reveal

Now that we know the specific details of each window type, we can proceed to the next step and take measurements of the external opening. Please follow the steps below.

WHAT NEEDS TO BE MEASURED FOR A REPLACEMENT WINDOW

 

To get the best result, take measurements from the outside opening (brickwork opening) of both the width and the height.

Note: Never measure the old frame or door, only measure the brickwork opening!

WIDTH
HEIGHT
  1. Measure the width of the window or door opening at the top, middle, and bottom.
  2. Take the narrowest measurement. This is the width you need to use when calculating the window size. Do not forget to deduct or add to this measurement depending on the window/door type.
  3. Measure the height of the opening at the left side, middle, and right side.
  4. Take the shortest measurement. This will be the height you need to use when calculating the size for your order.
  5. Repeat for each opening.

LET RANEBROOK WINDOWS HELP: WE KNOW WHAT AND HOW TO MEASURE FOR REPLACEMENT WINDOW SATISFACTION

 

The information above and is generic because there are many things that determine exactly where you measure and how much you deduct or add to the width and height.

If you’re considering replacing your home’s windows to boost energy efficiency or eliminate air and moisture leaks for comfort, we recommend you work with a reputable replacement window dealer, like Ranebrook Windows. When you allow professionals to evaluate your existing windows, and take care of the installation, you eliminate the hassle of figuring out the best way to remove your old windows without having to do major exterior and interior construction. The peace of mind that comes from knowing the whole job – parts and labour – is guaranteed is immeasurable for many homeowners. No construction mess, no worries about getting the wrong size and no fear that your windows will fail in a couple of years because they weren’t installed properly.

Another way to make sure your final project measures up to your expectations is to install superior quality, custom-built replacement windows uniquely designed for every room. The replacement windows offered by big box stores often come in a limited number of styles, like double-hung and sliders. Knowing you can change your existing window to a different style or shape allows you to really get the look and feel you want for your home.

Want some help from our professional window replacement team? Just fill in the short contact form on this page or reach us immediately by calling 01322 332237.

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