Standard window sizes aren’t discovered by shopping for windows at your local hardware store. There are standard window sizes for every home. Each size will depend on your home and what you want.
Window dimensions are unique to the room where they’re installed. A kitchen window does not have the same dimensions as a window in a living room. If you know the type of window you want, it’s as helpful as knowing its size.
History of the Window
Asian countries used paper windows as early as 100 BC. The Romans had glass windows 2,000 years ago. And in 17th century England, glass replaced animal horns for the modern-day window. Glass windows were a privilege enjoyed by the wealthy.
In the US, beginning in the 19th century, Grecian-style windows were the norm throughout most of the century. Starting in the 20th century, standard window frames were manufactured and available across the country. The balloon-framed windows were built with hinged openings. The single-pane windows weren’t heavy, which made installation easy.
In the 50s, windows were bare-edged, metallic, and rectangular. The windows had wood frames and homes were built with shutters for protection. By the end of the decade, double-paned window styles were introduced to the public.
In the 70s, double-pane windows became the norm. Single-pane windows were phased out.
Differences Between Single Pane And Double Pane Windows
Single pane windows may not be common today, but you will find them in older homes. Almost all windows in a residential home will be double-pane windows.
Single-Pane Windows
Single-pane windows were common in residential homes up until the 70s. Today, they aren’t used. Older homes have single-pane windows.
The problem with single-pane windows is how they don’t insulate homes as well as their double-pane counterpart. When you’re trying to heat or cool your home, single-pane windows are effective in protecting your home from outdoor climates.
If single-pane windows have a benefit, it’s that they’re cheap. But the money you save on buying cheap windows, you spend later when trying to heat or cool your home.
Double Pane Windows
Double-pane windows are the norm in homes across the country. In California, for example, it is against the law for contractors to install single-pane windows. If a homeowner in Los Angeles wants single-pane windows, then they will have to install the windows themselves.
Although double pane windows cost more, the money you save on your energy bills will be worth it in the long run. Window technology now includes non-toxic, non-visible argon gas in the space between panes.
Double-pane windows protect you from extreme weather conditions and outside noise pollution. The glass is also harder to break. You can also have the windows customized to include a laminated security glass.
What Are The Standard Window Sizes?
While there isn’t a set size for windows, there are a few standard window sizes that you can find almost anywhere. The standard window size for regular windows is 24″ wide by 36″ tall. But this is just one number.
When it comes to windows, there are a lot of different types of windows and different window sizes. You need to choose the size you need for your window and what type of window you want.
After you know what you need, you can figure out the size. If you are adding a new window, you can get it and then cut the frame. However, replacing windows is quite different.
How To Find What Size Of Window You Need
The most important window size is the window size that you need. When measuring for a window replacement, try measuring your opening instead of your window. Measuring a window can be difficult.
There are moisture barriers, lips, and all sorts of protrusions that can confuse you. So just measure the window opening and write down the measurements. Measure the jamb from side to side and end to end.
This is the measurement you’ll give the manufacturer or associate at the hardware store. If you want to pick one out yourself, then you will need to deduct 1/2 in from the measurement for the window to fit.
This is something that associates and contractors do automatically but is something you’ll do manually. It’s better for the window to be slightly too small than too big. Because you can always fill in the gap.
A great option for filling gaps is caulk or silicone. Here we have a great guide on the difference between caulk and silicone where you can learn the basics on how to use each of them.
Burglar-Proof Windows
The type of window and size of the window that you get matter. In more than 70% of home break-ins, burglars break through the window or door by breaking the glass.
While an alarm system offers the best protection, locks won’t be as effective if your windows are easy to break.
Here are the three most popular options to protect your home:
- Glazing – is a simple clear coat that can add protection and security to your window. Double-glazed windows are very hard to break into and are one of the cheapest anti-burglary options that really work.
- Film– A security window film is another great option. You can add it to your window and it won’t be visible to the naked eye. But it offers great protection that doesn’t allow burglars to gain entry after breaking the glass.
- Glass – Getting riot glass, or even something less secure is your safest option. This way, they can’t break the glass. However, unbreakable glass is expensive, so it may not be your easiest decision to make. If you’re looking for security systems, make sure you get a good one. Security systems aren’t cheap, but it is best to get your info from third parties.
Types Of Windows
Window size depends on the type of window you are referring to. There are different types of windows you can get. Each of them has different standard window sizes.
Here are a few examples:
Single-Hung Window Dimensions
- Width: 36 to 84 inches
- Height: 24 to 60 inches
Single-hung window size has a single movable sash. The sash is pulled up from the bottom to let air in. The top of the window never moves. This is the cheapest and most common type of window and is known as the “standard window.”
Double-Hung Window Dimensions
- Width: 36 to 84 inches
- Height: 24 to 60 inches
Double-hung windows have two operating sashes. Both the top and bottom can move so you can let air in from either end. This offers more ventilation options. This type of window is expensive but very valuable.
Awning Window Dimensions
- Width: 12 to 96 inches
- Height: 12 to 60 inches
Awning windows are actually wider than they are tall. They open outward from the bottom and have hinges at the top. They are great for areas that get a lot of rain because they can be opened when it’s raining.
Bow WindowDimensions
- Width: 1 to 6 windows wide
- Height: 1 window tall
Bow windows are multiple windows put together. But they do differ from bay windows. Bow windows are three windows wide on most occasions while bay windows are made to be round, so they take more windows.
Arched Window Dimensions
- Width: 24 to 192 inches
- Height: 24 to 192 inches
This Victorian-style window is round at the top. They don’t come in standard sizes because they are often custom-made. You can find gigantic arched windows are tiny ones used in bathrooms and painted as stained glass
Casement Window Dimensions
- Width: 12 to 36 inches per window
- Height: 24 to 84 inches per window
Casement windows are ancient windows used to provide full ventilation to a room. The hinges move on the vertical side of the window and they open like French doors. They are both affordable and high-end.
Egress Window Dimensions
- Width: At least 20-inches
- Height: At least 24-inches
These windows are often found in basements and offer an escape in an emergency. Hence the name, egress, which means escape or leave. They have to be a certain size to accommodate most humans trapped in dire situations.
Glass Block Window Dimensions
- Width: 4 to 8 inches per block
- Height: 4 to 8 inches per block
These windows are made block by block and aren’t sold as whole windows. The blocks are also for building shower walls.
Garden Window Dimensions
- Width: 36 to 72 inches
- Height: 24 to 48 inches
Garden windows are convex windows that protrude from a wall. They offer a great place to display treats and indoor plants. They are perfect for growing plants indoors, especially kitchen plants like herbs and vegetables.
Jalousie Window Dimensions
- Width: 12 to 36 inches
- Height: 24 to 48 inches
Jalousie windows are common in mild climates. They are similar to glass blinds that have panels you can fold in to close or open them to let air in. They are dangerous in cold, hot, and stormy climates.
Transom Window Dimensions
- Width: copies window size
- Height: 6 to 24 inches
A transom is a horizontal beam that divides a window’s upper part to offer more light. These windows are the same width as the window, or door, below but are much shorter. They are similar to clerestory windows.
Hopper Window Dimensions
- Width: 14 to 50 inches
- Height: 12 to 60 inches
A hopper window is an awning window that opens from the bottom instead of the top. While awning windows let air in without letting rain in, hopper widows let the smoke out. So they are perfect for kitchens.
Clerestory Window Dimensions
- Width: Any
- Height: Any
With clerestory windows, any window will work. Check out this clerestory window guide for more info.
Picture Window Dimensions
- Width: 28 to 52 inches
- Height: 12 to 96 inches
A customizable window that doesn’t have panes or a window frame. The window offers the best view of your yard or landscape. They have thicker glass or plexiglass.
Circle Window Dimensions
- Width: 24 to 36 inches
- Height: 24 to 36 inches
A circle window is the same diameter no matter how you measure them. The windows are smaller than most.
Skylight Window Dimensions
- Width: 20 to 60 inches
- Height: 20 to 84 inches
Skylight windows are expensive windows that give you the most amount of light each day. Ceiling installation makes them less safe than other windows, but much nicer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)FAQ
Can I Get A Custom Window That Isn't One Of The Standard Window Sizes?
Custom windows are more expensive than pre-built models. You can order them from a hardware store and licensed contractors. Before ordering custom windows, work with a contractor to find the best windows for your home.
What Are The Most Common Window Sizes in the US?
In the US, double-hung windows are the most popular window style. On average, double-hung windows are between 24 and 48 inches in width and 36-72 inches in height.
Do You Need Windows For Your Home?
Egress requirements mandate there must be an operable window in every residential bedroom.
What Is The Strongest Window Glass On The Market Today?
Fiberglass is the strongest window glass material you can buy. Fiberglass replacement windows have become the most popular window choice among homeowners in the US. Those living in severe weather climates like the windows because they are durable and offer the best protection from outside weather.
Does A House Have To Have Windows?
Every house must have a certain number of windows. A home will not pass building inspection unless it has windows. You can’t build a home without windows.
Standard Window Sizes Conclusion
With window sizes, it’s about you and your home. If you want to save money upfront because you want to sell your house soon, then cheaper windows would one option. If you plan on living in your home for the next ten years, then spend more money on your windows. You’ll save more money in the long-term and enjoy living comfortably as your windows protect your from hot or cold climates.
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