If you are shopping for windows for your home, there is a good chance that you have noticed that there are many different sizes of windows available. There are some sizes that are fairly consistent. These window sizes have been designed to fit into the more common size openings found in many homes. The standard window sizes will not work for every window in every home, but it makes sense for manufacturers to create windows that will work for the majority of homes. So, what is a standard window size? Read on to find out!
What Are The Standard Window Sizes for Your Home?
In order to avoid paying premium costs for your windows, you should stick to the standard sizes when you are building your home. The cost of window installation will vary based on the size of the window as well as the type of replacement window that is chosen. What size is a standard house window?
Determining the Size of Window you Need
There is a simple size notation used by window manufacturers to help you identify what size you will need for a rough opening. The size notation is the height and width combined. The first two numbers that you see will be the width and the second two numbers are the height.
For example, a 2426 window has a 2’4” width, and a height of 2’6”. Actual measurements for windows are typically about a half-inch less than the labeled whole number. For example, a window labeled 4444 likely has a height and width of 43 ½. Manufacturers round up these numbers so that the windows can be more easily installed.
Double-Hung Windows
The most common type of replacement window is the double-hung window. These types of windows come in a variety of sizes and are designed to fit almost any rough opening. Double-hung windows are the windows that are most often used in kitchens, bedrooms, hallways, and all throughout a house. Double-hung window sizes vary. The width of a double-hung window can be anywhere from 24 to 48 inches. The height of these windows ranges from 36 to 72 inches.
Single-Hung Windows
While single-hung windows look identical to double-hung windows, only the lower sash is operable. However, as with double-hung windows, some single-hung window models will allow you to redirect the sash inwards to clean the exterior of the window. Single-hung windows are easy to clean and remain flush with the wall. Therefore, these types of windows are great for walkways and patios.
So, what are single-hung window sizes? While a single-hung window’s rough opening width can be as small as 24 inches, the rough opening can be as large as 48 inches. The height of single-hung windows can be as small as 36 inches and as large as 72 inches. Because single-hung windows are economical and energy-efficient, this type of window is great for any budget.
Picture Windows
A picture window is designed to allow more light into a home. Most of the time a picture window will not open. This means that they can be built in a large variety of sizes. Picture windows are most often found in kitchens or living rooms. If you are thinking about installing picture windows, there are many picture window sizes available ranging from large to small.
Common widths for picture windows are 2, 4, 6, or 8 feet. The heights can range from one to eight feet. If you have an opening of one of these sizes in your home, you likely will not have to custom order the picture window.
Sliding Windows
Sliding windows can be found in bedrooms, basements, kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas of a home. A slider window is shorter and wider than a double-hung window. Sliding window sizes include widths that are 36, 48, 60, or 84 inches. The common heights for a sliding window are 24, 36, 48, and 60 inches.
Bay Windows
A bay window helps to open up a space in the home, adds architectural detail, and captures more light than a standard window. Bay windows are made up of three windows combined during manufacturing to construct one large window. While the windows are separated by posts, the middle window typically consists of a casement window or a double-hung window.
Adding a bay window to any room can help enhance the space. It is an improvement to any home and in the right space, it is well worth the investment.
The standard bay window sizes have widths that are three and a half feet to ten and a half feet. Meanwhile, the standard bay window heights are three to six and a half feet.
Awning Windows
This type of window is hinged at the top and opens outward from the bottom of the window frame. Awning windows are great for people who love to have their windows open, as they are great for ventilation and protecting the interior of your home from rain. The standard sizes of awning window tends to vary as these windows can accommodate many types of spaces.
However, the standard window width for awning windows ranges from 2 feet to 3 feet 10 inches. The standard height of awning windows falls between 7 inches and 7 feet 8 inches. In warmer climates, it is common for homeowners to place multiple awning windows side by side to accommodate indoor/outdoor living spaces.
Custom Windows
If you cannot find a window that fits your home, there are two options available. You can simply adjust the size of your rough opening in order to accommodate a standard window size. If the adjustments are not that difficult, this is often the best option.
The other choice is to order a custom window through a supplier. The supplier will help you determine the best options available. You will have to wait on your windows to be made and delivered to the store and this can often take several weeks. Additionally, these windows will cost a bit more than a standard window, which is why adjusting the rough opening is often the best option.
Standard Window Sizes in the U.S.
As a general rule of thumb, window widths range from 2 feet, 3 feet, 4 feet, 5 feet, 6 feet, and 8 feet. The standard heights of windows in the U.S. can range anywhere from 2 feet tall to 8 feet tall, with additional heights of 18, 52, 54, and 62 inches. To learn more about window sizes and fitting your home for windows, contact one of our Omaha window specialists today for a free estimate!
Discount Window and Door of Omaha
At Discount Window and Door of Omaha, we are committed to providing the best quality doors and replacement windows. We employ the most skilled installers to ensure the highest standard of quality service. Our Omaha door and window installers are highly trained, certified industry professionals with years of experience, including some second and third-generation employees.