Whether you are planning to build a new house or simply replace old windows, have you encountered difficulties with window sizes? Purchasing windows in various sizes can be challenging. Don’t worry—Grandsea’s door and window experts will guide you through the basics of standard window sizes, helping you save time, money, and avoid potential issues.
The Importance of Understanding Standard Window Sizes
Think about it: if you know the common window sizes, finding replacements becomes much easier. Manufacturers tend to adhere to predetermined dimensions for windows commonly called “builder-grade.” These are designed to fit the rough openings—the gaps in your wall where the window and its frame are installed—in most houses built within the last 50 years.
Why bother with standard sizes?
Custom windows sound fancy, but they can also be quite expensive. That’s where standard window sizes come to the rescue.
Standard sizes are generally more budget-friendly than custom options. Additionally, their standardized dimensions simplify installation and replacement. No waiting around for weeks. No complicated measurements. Simply choose, purchase, and install them.
Understanding standard window sizes can make the entire purchasing process smoother, saving you time and money.
What Exactly Are Standard Window Sizes?
When people refer to “standard window sizes,” they mean the most common dimensions produced by window manufacturers. However, this does not imply that ready-made windows are always available at local retailers like typical off-the-shelf products.
The benefit of standard sizes is that they are made for the rough openings typical in today’s homes. This is similar to buying a wrench, which must fit the size of the nuts, because these nuts come in industry-standard sizes.
But “standard” is not hard-and-fast. Certain dimensions may vary depending on your location or the manufacturer of your windows. Sometimes they are measured in feet, i.e., 2×3 feet; other times measured in inches, like 24×36 inches. No matter which way you’re measuring, once you’ve identified the correct dimensions, choosing the best windows for your home is a breeze.
Understanding Window Size Notation
There are various ways sizes are written when you first start looking for windows. It is not as complicated as it may seem. Here’s a simple guide to help you make sense of it all:
The most common format is width by height (in inches), especially in the United States and Canada. For example, a window marked “36×48” is 36 inches wide and 48 inches tall.
Four-Digit Notation: Some manufacturers use a four-digit code where the first two digits indicate width and the last two indicate height (in feet and inches). For example, “2438” means 2 feet 4 inches wide by 3 feet 8 inches high, equivalent to 28 by 44 inches.
Feet-Inch Format: “2×3 ft” is another way that window sizes may be written. This one is simple: two feet in width and three feet in height. Just keep in mind that width always comes before height.
One thing to remember is to always confirm if the dimensions are for the precise size of the window or the rough opening, which is the hole in your wall. To allow you some leeway while installing, some manufacturers may add a small amount—say half an inch—to the specified dimensions.
The safest bet is to check with the manufacturer before placing your order to make sure everything is in order.
Standard Window Sizes by Type
Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of windows and their typical standard size ranges:
Horizontal Sliding Windows
These open by sliding sideways. They’re great when you can’t easily open a window outwards or upwards, such as above a kitchen sink.
- Standard Widths: Typically range from 36, 48, 60, 72, to 84 inches.
- Standard Heights: Usually include 24, 36, 48, or 60 inches.
Single Hung Windows
With these, the bottom part (sash) moves up and down, but the top remains stationary. They’re a versatile and classic choice.
- Standard Widths: You’ll often find them in widths like 24, 28, 32, 40, 44, or 48 inches.
- Standard Heights: Common heights include 36, 44, 48, 52, 54, 60, 62, or 72 inches.
Double Hung Windows
Unlike single hung windows, the key feature of Double Hung Windows is that both the top and bottom sashes can slide up and down. This gives you excellent ventilation and makes them easy to clean. They’re really common in all sorts of homes.
- Standard Widths: Similar to single hung, often 24, 28, 32, 40, 44, or 48 inches.
- Standard Heights: Again, you’ll see heights like 36, 44, 48, 52, 54, 60, 62, or 72 inches.
# double hung Windows
Casement Windows
These are hinged on the side and swing outwards, either to the left or right, similar to a door. They’re brilliant for good ventilation and are often used for taller, narrower window spaces.
- Standard Widths: Can range from around 16 up to 48 inches. You might see specific examples like 1 foot, 2 inches to 2 feet, 11.5 inches.
- Standard Heights: Typically from 24 up to 84 inches. Examples include 2 feet, 5.5 inches to 6 feet, 5.5 inches. In USA, common sizes are around 24×36 or 30×48 inches.
Awning Windows
Hinged at the top, these open outwards from the bottom. This means you can even get some fresh air when it’s raining lightly. They’re often placed above or below other windows. Generally, they’re wider than they are tall.
- Standard Widths: Similar to casement windows, from 16 to 48 inches. You might also see a range like 2 inches to 3 feet, 10 1/8 inches.
- Standard Heights: Again, in the 24 to 84 inch ballpark. Another stated range is 1 foot, 8 inches to 7 feet, 8 7/8 inches high.
These are fixed windows that don’t open. Their main job is to give you a clear view and let in lots of natural light. They come in larger sizes and are popular for living rooms and entryways.
- Standard Widths: Can range from around 34 up to 72 inches. You might also see a wider range like 2 feet to 8 feet. Common examples in Canada include 24×24, 36×36, or 48×48 inches. In Texas, you might see 3×2 ft. or 6×4 ft..
- Standard Heights: Typically from 36 to 60 inches, but can also go from 1 foot to 8 feet tall. Examples include 18, 52, or 62 inches.
Bay Windows
These are usually made up of three windows that jut out from the wall, often with angled side windows. They add extra space and light to a room.
- Standard Widths: Can be between 3 feet, 6 inches and 10 feet, 6 inches. Common configurations in USA include a total width of 126, 146, or 184 inches, often with a height around 48 inches.
- Standard Heights: Usually between 3 and 6 feet, 6 inches.
Window Sizes in different rooms
The size of your windows isn’t always just about aesthetics. Building codes can sometimes dictate minimum sizes, particularly for safety reasons.
Basement Egress Windows:
Basement egress windows serve not only to admit light but also as an essential safety feature. In case of an emergency, they provide an escape route.
For starters, there’s a minimum amount of net clear opening area (basically, how much space you get when the window’s open) that’s required. You’ll also need to make sure the window’s height and width meet certain standards. Don’t forget to think about the size of the window well outside too! That extra space is important for safety, allowing enough room to climb out if needed.
Standard Bedroom Window Sizes
Bedrooms on upper floors often have similar egress requirements to basements. Unless there’s a door leading directly outside, at least one window should be large enough to escape through. A good rule of thumb is an opening of around 24 inches tall by 20 inches wide, but again, check your local codes.
Bathroom Window Sizes
There aren’t usually specific code requirements for the size of bathroom windows, but ventilation is essential. If you rely on windows for ventilation, a general guideline is a minimum size of 3 square feet, with at least 50% of it being able to be opened. Privacy is often a key consideration in bathrooms, so smaller, higher windows or frosted glass are popular choices. Standard sizes you might see mentioned are around 24–36 inches wide and 36–72 inches high.
Kitchen Window Sizes
Generally, there aren’t specific size codes for kitchen windows. The focus here is often on the type of window that suits the space and your needs, like a casement window over a sink for easy opening. Natural light and ventilation are also important factors. Standard double hung kitchen window sizes can range from 24–48 inches wide and 36–72 inches high, while casement windows might be 14–35.5 inches wide and 17–73 inches high. A common size for over a sink is often around 36 inches wide by 24 inches tall.
Living Room Window Sizes
In living rooms, the aim is often to maximize natural light. Larger windows are generally preferred, and it’s common to see a combination of different window styles used.
Benefits of Choosing Standard Window Sizes
Going for standard window sizes can have some real advantages:
Cost Savings: As mentioned, standard window sizes are generally less expensive than custom options. One study indicates that choosing a custom-sized window could cost the owner approximately $175 more on average.
Faster Installation Times: They tend to save time and are more efficient because their installation is less complicated.
Simplified Replacement: Finding a suitable match becomes less of a hassle because there’s no need for custom orders.
Streamlined Accessory Selection: Items such as blinds and curtains can be more easily purchased when dealing with standard sized windows.
Faster Manufacturing: Less preset work aids in speeding up the Standard size manufacturing process.
More Accurate Pricing: Getting a quote is much simpler and accurate for standard dimensions.
How to Measure the Window Sizes
Getting your measurements right is crucial, whether you’re aiming for a standard size or need to consider a custom order. Here’s a basic guide:
- Width: Measure the distance between the inside edges of the window frame (the jambs) at the top, middle, and bottom. Record the smallest measurement.
- Height: Measure from the top of the window sill up to the inside of the top frame. Again, measure at the left, centre, and right, and note the smallest measurement.
- Feet-Inch Format: You might also see sizes written like “2×3 ft”. This is fairly straightforward: 2 feet wide by 3 feet high. Remember, width is always mentioned first, followed by height.
Once you have these inside frame measurements, you can compare them to the standard sizes listed by manufacturers. If your measurements are within a few inches of the standard figures, it’s likely you have standard-sized windows.
Remember the difference between the rough opening and the actual window size. The window unit will usually be slightly smaller than the rough opening to allow for fitting and insulation.
Top Tip: If you’re at all unsure about measuring, especially for replacement windows or more complex shapes, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional in Grandsea. We can ensure you get accurate measurements and avoid costly mistakes.
Making Informed Choices for Your Windows
Therefore, in home renovation projects involving windows, understanding the importance of standard window sizes is like discovering a secret to saving costs and time, avoiding unnecessary effort.
If you have special requirements, we offer custom window services. Additionally, at Grandsea, we provide a one-stop service! We will set cost expectations based on your budget and analyze standard and custom solutions to fit your existing space. We will also provide precise measurement data to ensure a smooth and hassle-free ordering and installation process for your doors and windows.
