When you’re shopping for windows for your home, it helps to keep in mind that, which some stores offer custom window sizes and shapes, many outlets stick with a few standard styles for each of their different window selections. That means that if you’re looking for something to outfit your home with today, you might be out of luck if you’re dealing with unusual or irregular window sizes at home. In the world of home building, an irregular window size refers to a whole number measurement value rather than more precise figures. If your window is a standard 3838 or 2020, you may have an easier time of finding a new window in stores. However, don’t fret: Custom windows are easy enough to order in advance as long as you know what you’re looking for. If you want windows that will fit perfectly in your home, here’s what you should know about standard window sizing.
Half Inch Sizing
While most standard window sizes use full numbers, many of the traditional sizes you’ll see, such as 3838 (meaning 3 feet by 8 inches in both length and width) are actually built with an extra ½ inch added to be able to fit a larger number of standard home openings. For windows that are built along standard lines, you may find that you need extra padding in the form of a “shim” which allows you to fit your window in a wider space more easily and snugly while you’re adding extra flashing to keep everything in place. These larger openings also allow for weatherproofing materials to be installed more easily. Standard window measurements are created to fit a “rough” opening, which is good news for homes with window openings that are about a half inch wider or longer. If you’re buying in-store, ask whether or not the standard windows come with rough sizing or if they’re true to size.
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows are a traditional style that you’ll see around the exterior of many older homes. They’re classic, easy to install, and even easier to weatherproof, as opposed to a window that operates outward or from side to side rather than up and down. When buying double-hung windows for your home, it’s important to know that standard measurements begin at 24 inches and end at 48 inches in width. For height, they’ll usually run from 36 to 72 inches. This means that you’ll most likely have an easy time ordering standard double-hung models. Since these windows are one of the more basic options and tend not to come in irregular shapes and sizes, they make a great choice for homeowners who want to keep things classic and don’t want to worry about a security breach. The vertical closure model for double-hung windows makes them easy to lock and protect, even if they’re on the first floor.
Picture Windows
When shopping for picture windows, you may have a harder time finding pre-made models to fit your specific space. Since picture windows tend to be larger and come in a variety of shapes and sizes, you’ll be able to choose from a few standard sizes from an 8-foot floor to ceiling model to a smaller 2 foot, 18-inch installation. Since these windows are fixed and aren’t made to open, you may find you have a broader range from which to choose. Keep in mind that picture windows shouldn’t be too large if they’re on the first floor since they could present a security issue. If you’re looking for a picture window effect but want something a bit less open, try installing a bay or bow window in an area that gets a lot of natural sunlight.
Sliding Windows and Casements
Casement windows, which open outward with the help of a central crank device, are one of the more stylish and sophisticated window choices on the market. Popular for use in bathrooms and kitchens, they also tend to come in a smaller range of sizes. This has to do with the fact that casement windows operate using sashes which can’t support too much weight. These windows are made to catch the breeze in a unique way by allowing the air to filter in through the side rather than through a direct forward gust. If you want the same effect but have your heart set on a window size that’s larger than a 2030 measurement, sliding windows could be the answer. They’ll catch the breeze in a similar way while allowing you to go all the way up to a 6040 measurement or larger.
