Custom windows only perform as well as the measurements behind them, and that matters even more in New Orleans. Shotgun houses, Creole cottages, and century-old homes across Uptown, the Garden District, and Mid-City rarely have square, standard-sized openings. Add Gulf Coast humidity that swells and shifts wood frames over time, and a guess-and-hope measurement almost always leads to drafts and leaks. Whether you’re in Orleans Parish or out in Metairie, Kenner, or Slidell, here’s how to measure a custom window opening correctly.
Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Custom Windows
- a. Check if the Window is Square
- b. Measure the Width of the Window
- c. Measure the Height of the Window
- d. Measure the Depth of the Window
- e. Account for Frame Irregularities
- f. Verify Your Measurements
- Measuring Techniques for Different Window Types
- Sliding and Double-Hung Windows
- Awning and Casement Windows
- Bay and Bow Windows
- Unique Shapes like Arches or Circles
- Replace Your Windows With Custom Ones
If you desire your custom windows to be flawless, careful measurements must be made of their top, middle, and bottom openings. In determining the size of your custom window, take the lowest measurement.
For height, measure from the sill to the top at three different points and again, use the lowest figure. Remember to measure the depth to ensure compatibility with custom frames. Accurate measurements with Big Easy Windows are the key to ensuring a smooth installation and peak performance. Let our experts help you get it right from the start.
Get professional measuring tips and personalized guidance, your perfect custom windows are just a call away. Reach out today!
Key Takeaways
- First and foremost, ensure the window is square by measuring with a level and taking diagonal measurements.
- Take the measurements of the window frame’s width, height, and depth at several points.
- In other custom shapes like circles or arches, be sure to include any special dimensions, like in a circle’s case, diameter or arch peak height.
- Measure along the frame for any deviations, like warping or bowing, and measure again to provide for these variations.
- Double-check all the measurements and compare them against the specifications made by the manufacturer.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Custom Windows
Taking measurements for custom windows is an art in itself, and accurate measurements will provide the optimal fit. Every step in the measuring process is vital and must be done with care so that no mistakes are made, and this can be expensive. Below is a guide for you.
1. Verify Whether the Window is Square
Use a level to verify that your sill and header measurements are square. Then, measure across diagonally from corner to corner on both sides. If the diagonals are over 1/8 inch apart, the opening is out of square. Overlooking this misalignment, such as by merely flexing the frame, can be hazardous and should be rectified before continuing. This is common in older New Orleans homes that have settled over decades.
2. Measure the Width of the Window
Measure the width of the opening at three points: the top, middle, and bottom. As with the width, record the smallest measurement to make sure you get a window that fits tightly. In the case of new construction, you’ll want to measure the rough opening and deduct about 1/2 inch for adjustments. If your window has mullions, be sure to factor their location into your measurements.
3. Measure the Height of the Window
Measure height on the left, center, and right sides of the frame, including the sill if present. For odd shapes, measure from the bottom to the top point. Once more, when measuring, use the smallest figure for an exact fit, rounding down to the nearest 1/8 inch when needed.
4. Measure the Depth of the Window
Measure from the inside trim to the outside trim. Standard depths usually vary from 3.25 to 6.5 inches. Make sure this measurement accounts for any extensions or bumps, and pay close attention to depth so you can pair the proper frame style.
5. Account for Frame Irregularities
Check the entire frame for signs of warping or bowing. In older New Orleans homes, settling and decades of Gulf Coast humidity often leave frames bowed or out of square, so measure at several locations to account for irregularities and identify spots that will need repair before the new window goes in. This will help make sure your measurements are an accurate representation of the opening.
6. Verify Your Measurements
As a final step, verify all measurements and check against the manufacturer’s specifications. Write them down in a measurement notebook, making sure to indicate where each window is located. Forming a precise bullet list of dimensions will make the ordering process much smoother.
Measuring Techniques for Different Window Types
Proper measurements are the first step to a successful custom window fit. To add to the challenge, each window style has its distinctive requirements. By customizing your approach, you ensure that the result fits beautifully into the environment. Here are in-depth techniques for measuring different window types.
-
Sliding and Double-Hung Windows
Begin by taking the width and height of the sash, since most windows do have multiple pieces that move. Take the width at the top, middle, and bottom of the opening from jack jamb to jack jamb, and record the smallest dimension rounded to the nearest 1/8 inch. Measure the left, middle, and right heights of the frame, again recording the smallest dimension.
Include the frame and tracks in your measurements for smooth operation. Lastly, test for squareness by measuring diagonally across corners. Extreme measurement variation could mean adjustments are necessary.
-
Awning and Casement Windows
Measure the total width and height of the opening, including projecting hinges and hardware. For casement windows, be sure to include the direction the casement swings, as this can be a factor in available installation space.
Identify any obstructions, like nearby walls or built-in features, that might hinder function. Special attention to the frame and hardware is necessary to give a clean, crisp-looking, and operational fit.
-
Bay and Bow Windows
For bay and bow windows, measure each section of the window separately, width, height, and angles between sections (usually 30° or 45°). Take note of the overall width and height of the assembly, and the depth of the projection. Creating a table to organize each measurement and the combined finished product can provide clarity on the process.
-
Unique Shapes like Arches or Circles
For arched windows, take measurements from the bottom to the top of the arch. For circular windows, you will have to take the diameter at the center point of the circle. These shapes are common in New Orleans’ historic and Victorian-era homes, so precise dimensions matter.
Take special note of any irregularities to prevent creating errors during fabrication. Specialty shapes require extra care, since these windows frequently serve as the centerpiece of a room’s decor.
Replace Your Windows With Custom Ones
Measuring accurately at the start is the secret to having a perfect custom window fit. Taking a little extra time at the start ensures your windows are stunning, seal properly, and improve the comfort of your home through every humid New Orleans summer.
Once your measurements are complete, you can confidently move forward knowing your new windows will align perfectly with your home’s design. A well-measured fit not only enhances energy efficiency but also boosts curb appeal.
Looking to replace your windows with custom ones? Give our crew at Big Easy Windows a call today for trusted service across New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, Slidell, and the surrounding parishes.
