Curious how to measure windows for replacement? Our simple, non scientific, non complicated 4 step tutorial can help. To begin with, grab a take a tape measure, pencil and paper (or ipad, phone, etc.) and find the first window to measure. I’ll explain it old school with pen and paper, but you can easily extrapolate it to phone notes or scratch pad.
Replacing Your Windows? Our Starter Guide can help.
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Measure The Frame Width
So, bedroom #1, window #1. Measure the frame width (or opening width). Please note, this does NOT refer to the window currently installed in the opening, but the opening itself (the drywall edge). I usually start by measuring toward the top of the opening. I write this down on my paper to the nearest 1/4 inch. I then do this at the bottom. If the measurements are the same, I move on. If the measurements differ, I repeat the process. If they differ the second time, it means the opening is not square. I always make a note of this.
Cost Estimates
Silverline V3: $450 installed
Okna 400: $650 installed
Universal Windows UniShield Plus: $750 installed
Wincore 7700: $850 installed
Andersen Fibrex Window: $1900 installed
Measure The Frame Height
A similar process here to the width. Take a tape measure and measure the height from drywall edge. I start at the left side and write my number down (down to the 1/4 inch). I then repeat this on the right side. If the measurements are the same, I move on. If the measurements differ, I repeat the process and make a note of this.
Measure From Corner To Corner
If both the height and width numbers matched one another, you don’t HAVE to take this step, and here is why I say this. If you’ve never measured corner to corner (and/or the opening is big), this can be difficult to do alone and get an accurate number down to the 1/4 inch. Easier to do with another person.
Measure The Window Depth
This is another step that you can do, but it’s not necessary if the following conditions exist. Most walls depths are much
“hole” is plumb and level.
