A lot goes into choosing the right window replacements. You have many window features to consider, like frame material, design, and color. That’s the easy part. What about window size?
Do you know how to find the right sized window for your bedroom, living room, kitchen, or another space in your home? There are several factors to consider, but thankfully the process isn’t that complicated once you know what to do. Let’s get to it!
Consider Home Aesthetics and Architecture
The first thing to consider is your style preferences and how these preferences complement your home’s existing architecture. For example, floor-to-ceiling windows don’t usually work with traditional homes or those with low ceilings. However, these can add a lot of elegance to homes with a more modern architecture, if the ceilings are high.
Know Typical Window Height Guidelines
Although the size of your windows largely depends on the architecture of your home and your personal style preferences, these decisions are mostly arbitrary. If you’re looking for a standard that’s more cut-and dry, here are some to consider:
- Windowsill Height: Windowsills should be no higher than 44 inches from the ground. This allows you to easily open and close your windows. If you decide to go with a window that is not operational, you can choose a window that goes from ceiling to floor.
- Window Head Height: There are no strict rules for how tall your windows should be. However, keep in mind that if there is a lot of space between the top of your window and the ceiling, the natural lighting of that room is diminished. On the other hand, too little space makes it difficult or impossible to hang curtain rods.
Check with Local Building Codes
If you are getting new windows without the help of professional window installers, check your local building codes first. Here are a few basics that are typically held across the board:
- The bottom openings of operational windows must be a minimum height of 24 inches above the interior floor when they are more than 6 feet above the grade of the outside window.
- Unless the bedroom has a door to the outdoors, a bedroom must have at least one window that is 24 inches tall and 20 inches wide with an opening of at least 5.7 square feet.
- Bottom windowsills should not be higher than 44 inches from the floor if placed on a first-story floor. For second story floors, the window should be at least 24 inches from the floor.
Get Custom Measurements from a Professional Window Company
Some details about window sizing are simply based on your preferences, but some have to do with building code safety. These codes are accessible to anyone, but if you aren’t up to the challenge, it might be best to hire a professional window company.
For custom measurements and designs from qualified window installers that keep your needs in mind without forgetting important coding regulations, go with Alenco. Get free pricing today.
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