How to Replace Windows : How to Measure for New Windows

[vsedlachek]

This is the best, most straightforward video I've seen on how to measure for windows. Thank you.

[norsmetal]

I have field measured over $16,000,000 worth of windows and door products successfully. Your video is exactly correct. To the DIY'ers out there always measure your width then hieght . I'd never measure the hieght first, you certainly would want your sizes reversed when ordering. width x hieght ;)

[colin57396]

whats with all the righting so you can see the video ?

[dgmcgrat]

A couple other tips. I like to subtract an extra 1/4" from the frame size (making the window 1/2" smaller than the RO) because a 1/8" is too small to fit the straw in for the spray insulation. Also, for older houses (and to be safe in general) take each measurement (W and H) 3 times...middle and sides..then use the smallest of the 3. Remember, ordering too big a window = a big problem, too small a window = a few shims and some extra insulation. better to err on the small side if anything.

[dgmcgrat]

The confusion is over Frame Size vs. Rough Opening. When you order windows you have to tell them what measurement you're giving them. Frame size is the actual size of the window, Rough Opening (RO) is the size of the hole you are putting the window in. If you give them your RO measurements they (or their computer) will automatically subtract some amount (usually 1/4") from the total width and total height to allow for some play, squaring, and insulating.

[heavenlypennies]

@dgmcgrat

Thanks!! That totally answered the question I had in my head.

[11spike7]

I worked installing windows in base housing on

an AFB. With a crew of 4, we replaced 1500 windows in one summer. If the install wasn't perfect, the inspector made you tear it out and re-install. This guy is doing everything the way it should be...A1, perfect installation.

[senserdog]

For all those who said this video is wrong, well it worked perfect for me and I'm just a DIY with little or no experience at all replacing windows, my first time.

Thanks in advance.

[senatorfrisky]

better NOT do it the way of the video!

measure your exact RO. tell your vendor your exact RO.

And like ryleykari said... put 'em in from the inside.

that way, you don't have to chisel the outer stop off the window. the directions that come with your window will tell you to do it from the inside too.

[AlessandroVolta1]

@senatorfrisky How are you going to put them in from the inside if the windows have brickmold or built in j channel? You would have to put them in from the outside. Btw, worked for a window manufacturer and in my part of the country you just have to tell them if they are frame size or Rough openening. I don't see any problem with what he is describing in the video.

[senatorfrisky]

walterbrob is right. you don't take anything off any measurements. you measure exactly, and wind up with your RO (rough opening)

you tell your window manu. your exact RO.

[RIFFnSOLO]

Better to do it the way of the video and tell your window dealer these are NET opening (NO) sizes, not RO's. That way you will get windows the exact size YOU want them. I've seen way too many screw ups, by well meaning and experienced clerks, ordering windows.

[senatorfrisky]

I guess we need better clerks?

[ryleykari]

Nice try! if you are professional you can measure from the outside also. It is better but you can do it either way. You can replace wood windows from the inside by removing the inside molding leaving the blind stop and less painting.

[lanegjones]

you right if you know what your doing

[walterbrob]

thats wrong..you dont knock of a quarter inch,,the manufacturer will do that,,you would end up with a half inch gap this guys way.

[kgroover]

Thank you, that was exactly what I needed to know.

[ShadowWorks]

Nicely done my man.