Shopping for windows can feel overwhelming due to the wide variety of sizes available. Many windows are designed to fit common openings in homes, simplifying the process for homeowners and manufacturers. Understanding the window size standard is crucial when choosing windows that align with your home’s needs and style.
What Are The Standard Window Sizes for Your Home? (In Inches)
To save on costs for your windows, sticking to the standard sizes when building or remodeling your home is a practical choice. Standard sizes simplify installation and often come at a lower price compared to custom-made windows. What size is a standard house window? Explore this guide to learn more about standard window dimensions.
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 width of 2’4” and a height of 2’6”.
- Actual measurements are often about half an inch smaller than the labeled size to ensure easy installation. For instance, a 4444 window may measure 43 ½ inches in width and height.
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.
Standard Sizes:
- Widths: 2, 4, 6, or 8 feet
- Heights: 1 to 8 feet
If your rough opening matches one of these sizes, you may not need to custom-order your picture window.
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. 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 are a versatile and practical choice for many areas of a home, including bedrooms, basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. These windows slide horizontally along a track and are ideal for spaces where vertical opening windows may not be suitable. Their design allows them to open from the side, providing easy operation and excellent ventilation.
Standard Sizes:
Sliding windows are available in a range of dimensions to suit various rough openings. Common widths include:
- 36 inches, 48 inches, 60 inches, and 84 inches wide
Typical heights for sliding windows are:
- 24 inches, 36 inches, 48 inches, and 60 inches
These standardized dimensions make sliding windows an excellent option for homeowners looking to avoid the cost of custom windows while still achieving a modern, streamlined appearance.
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 to accommodate a standard window size. Since standard windows are based on common window sizes and established size ranges, this is often the most practical and cost-effective solution. Adjusting the opening minimizes the need for customization and ensures compatibility with readily available products.
The other choice is to order a custom window size through a supplier. In this case, the supplier will guide you through the process of selecting the right option based on precise window measurements and your specific requirements. However, custom windows can take several weeks to manufacture and deliver, and they typically cost more than standard windows. For these reasons, sticking to standard size ranges and adjusting the rough opening is often the best option for homeowners.
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!
Energy Efficiency and Window Size
Energy efficiency is a crucial consideration when choosing window sizes for your home. The size of your windows can have a significant impact on both heating and cooling costs, as well as overall comfort levels. Here’s how window size affects energy efficiency:
- Insulation: Larger windows typically have more glass area, which can result in greater heat loss during the winter and heat gain during the summer. However, modern energy-efficient windows with double or triple glazing, low-emissivity coatings, and insulated frames can help mitigate these effects.
- Solar Heat Gain: The size and orientation of windows determine how much sunlight enters your home, affecting indoor temperatures. South-facing windows, for example, can provide passive solar heating in winter but may lead to overheating in summer without proper shading or Low-E coatings.
- Ventilation: Larger windows can improve natural ventilation, reducing the need for mechanical cooling in moderate climates. Properly sized operable windows allow for cross ventilation, promoting airflow and cooling during warmer months.
- Energy Ratings: Look for energy-efficient windows certified by programs like Energy Star. These windows meet strict criteria for performance, including U-factor, solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC), and air leakage. Properly sized windows with high energy ratings can help lower utility bills and reduce your carbon footprint.
Tips for Measuring Windows
Accurate measurements are essential when replacing windows to ensure a proper fit and optimal performance. Here are some tips for measuring windows:
- Measure Width and Height: Use a tape measure to determine the width and height of the window opening from inside the home. Measure at three points (top, middle, and bottom) for both width and height and record the smallest measurement to ensure the new window fits snugly.
- Check Squareness: Measure the diagonals of the window opening to check for squareness. If the diagonals are equal, the opening is square. If not, you may need to make adjustments or order custom-sized windows.
- Consider Frame-to-Frame vs. Rough Opening: When replacing windows, you can either measure the existing frame size (frame-to-frame) or the rough opening (including the frame). Follow manufacturer guidelines for the preferred measurement method.
- Consult a Window Professional: If you’re unsure about measuring windows accurately, consider hiring a professional window installer or contractor. They have the expertise and tools to ensure precise measurements and proper installation.
Discount Window and Door of Omaha
Finding the perfect windows for your home doesn’t have to be a challenge. 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. Don’t settle for less—invest in windows that enhance your home’s comfort, style, and value.