Replacing your windows with energy-efficient ones is a smart way to save on electricity bills and boost your home’s resale value. Whether you are a skilled DIYer or plan on reaching out to providers of replacement windows in West Richland, WA, you need accurate measurements for perfect installation.

Here is how to get them.

          1. Measure the window width

Take a tape measure and measure the width of each window you plan on replacing in three places —

• Bottom: slide the window up and measure from jamb to jamb at the foot of the window
• Middle: open the window and measure from jamb to jamb in the midpoint
• Top: close the window and measure from jamb to jamb at the highest level

To do this, place the tape measure against the window jamb on each side. If you are not familiar with the jamb, it is the vertical board inside the window frame.

Don’t forget to record every measurement. When you finish, highlight the shortest size.

       2. Measure the window height

Using a similar process as measuring the width, use your tape measure to measure three points in the vertical direction.

• Far Right: place the tape on the far right and measure from the head jamb (top horizontal board above the window) to the bottom sill (flat panel at the bottom)
• Middle: place the tape in the middle and measure from the head jamb to the bottom sill
• Far Left: place the tape on the far left and measure from the head jamb to the bottom sill

Record every measurement and highlight the shortest size as above.

IMPORTANT: The sill is not part of the trim board that extends into the room. For an accurate measurement, you have to open the window to measure the actual sill.

Also, if the sill is sloped, measure from the highest point of the window sill. It is the point right against your window.

       3. Measure the depth

If you live in a traditional house, you may not have to worry about measuring the window depth. However, it is essential if you live in a modular or mobile home.

To measure for depth, open the window and place your tape measure on the outside of the frame. Then run it to the inside to determine the measurement from edge to edge of the window frame.

Repeat this in three places, preferably at the top, middle, and bottom of the frame. Record and highlight the smallest measurement to complete the process.

If you can’t open the window, place the tape measure on each side of the glass and add the results. Then add that to the thickness of the window glass pane, which should be 3mm or ⅛ inches.

       4. Round down the results

After measuring every window, take the smallest measurement for each section (width, height) and round down to the nearest ⅛ of an inch.

However, you don’t have to do this if your original measurement is already in an eighth-inch increment.

Use these final figures to order replacement windows for your home. If you are not confident with your measurement or prefer having the windows installed professionally, reach out to Perfect Glass. We are installers of replacement windows in West Richland, WA. Our experienced and qualified craftsmen will come to your home and measure for you. Give us a call today or stop by our location and speak with one of our experts.