Window manufacturers can make every window style to custom specifications, but standard window sizes exist for many styles. Home builders generate demand for standard residential window sizes by using set measurements when creating window openings.
Homes built before the mid-1900s may rely more on custom-size windows, but homes constructed since then can employ both custom and standard sizes. Keep reading to learn what standard window sizes are available when you install or repair windows in your home.
Key takeaways
Standard window sizes are mass-produced, making them the most affordable option for window installation.
Some windows, such as egress windows, come in standard sizes to meet safety standards and local building codes and regulations.
Double-hung windows, the most common style in homes, come in standard sizes ranging from 24 to 48 inches wide and 36 to 72 inches tall.
Use the four-digit code on your window to ensure it's your desired size.
What is the standard window size?
The size of a standard window depends on the window style you want to install. However, each style has set dimensions that will fit the rough openings found in most modern homes. These set measurements make it easier to buy and install windows in different rooms of your home.
Double-hung windows are the most common windows in a home. Standard double-hung window sizes range from 24 to 48 inches wide and 36 to 72 inches high. Other window styles, such as casement windows, picture windows and sliding windows, also come in specific predetermined dimensions.
How to read window sizes
In the home decorating and remodeling professions, four-digit codes describe window sizes.
“The first two digits of the code indicate the width of the window in feet and inches, while the last two digits indicate the window height in feet and inches,” said Carol Alexander, a home remodeling industry expert at?fixr.com.
For example, if a window measures 2 feet, 8 inches wide by 3 feet, 6 inches tall, its four-digit code is 2836.
Most manufacturers use this combined feet-and-inches method when listing window codes, but others use only inches. In that case, a window measuring 3 feet wide by 4 feet tall would have a code of 3648 (36 inches by 48 inches) instead of 3040. Be aware of this variation in coding when shopping for various types of replacement windows.
What size window do I need?
The most popular window styles also have popular sizes. This circumstance makes it convenient for window manufacturers to meet customers’ needs. Window manufacturers mass-produce common, making them more affordable, while custom-sized windows are usually more expensive.
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Most common sizes
|
|
|---|---|
| Double- and single-hung windows | 2 ft. wide x 3 ft. high (2030) |
| Awning windows | 2 ft. 5 in. x 1 ft., 8 in. (2518) |
| Bay windows | 3 ft., 6 in. to 10 ft., 6 in. wide |
| Casement windows | 2 ft. 4 in. x by 3 ft., 6 in. (2436) |
| Egress windows | 20 in. x 24 in. (1820) |
| Picture/fixed windows | 3 feet x 2 ft. (3020) |
| Sliding windows | 3 ft. x 2 ft. (3020) |
Double- and single-hung window sizes
Double-hung windows are the most common windows in a home. They’re similar to single-hung windows. Single-hung windows have one sash that slides from the bottom up, while double-hung windows have two moveable sashes that allow the window to slide from the bottom up or the top down.
“Single-hung and double-hung windows are usually standardized at 24”, 28”, 32” and 36” for widths,” said Josh Rudin, the owner of Arizona’s ASAP Restoration LLC. “For the heights, these are usually 36”, 44”, 52” 60” and 72”, respectively, with the height option being relatively changeable.”
Awning window sizes
Awning windows have a crank or handle and open outward and up. You might find them over kitchen sinks or in bathrooms. They range from 2 to 4 feet wide by 1 foot, 8 inches to 7 feet, 8 inches tall.
Bay window sizes
Bay windows contain a large center pane with two panes angled on either side. Typically used in living or dining rooms, bay windows don’t usually come in standard sizes. But they often range from 3 to 10 feet wide by 3 to 6 feet high.
Casement window sizes
Casement windows, often used in kitchens and bathrooms, can be big or small. Widths can start around 12 inches and go to 16, 20, 24, 28, 32 and 36 inches. Rudin said heights begin at 24 inches and grow to 36, 48, 60, and 72 inches.
These window sizes usually work in concert with one another. So, there are few situations where you’d want a 12-inch wide window that was 72 inches tall.
“These standard sizes make it easy to ensure proper ventilation, light exposure and egress, should you need to use one to escape the home,” Rudin said.
Egress window sizes
Typically found in basements, egress windows must adhere to local building code regulations. These hinged windows open outward and have standard window sizes of at least 20 inches tall by 24 inches wide.
Picture/fixed window sizes
Picture windows are usually single-pane and fixed. They don’t open and are intended to add light or ambiance to an indoor space. Standard picture window sizes range from 3 to 8 feet wide by 2 to 5 feet tall.
Sliding window sizes
As their name suggests, sliding windows move sideways from one direction to the other and open horizontally. They may be found in dining rooms, kitchens or bathrooms.
Their dimensions usually start at 36 inches wide and come in widths of 48, 60, 72 and 84 inches, Rudin said. Their standard heights are 24, 36, 48 and 60 inches.
Standard window sizes by room
As you look around your home, you will probably find a variety of window styles. Certain windows deliver better lighting or functionality to a room. See which standard window sizes are the most common in a home’s bedroom, living room, kitchen or other rooms.
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Type of window
|
Average size
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Bedroom | Single- or double-hung; sliding |
2 ft. x 3 ft.; 2 ft. x 4 ft., 4 inches; 2 ft. x 3 ft. |
| Living room | Single- or double-hung; picture |
2 ft. x 3 ft.; 2 ft. x 4 ft., 4 inches; 3 ft. x 2 ft. |
| Dining room | Single- or double-hung; sliding |
2 ft. x 3 ft.; 2 ft. x 4 ft., 4 inches; |
| Kitchen | Picture; casement |
3 ft. x 2 ft.; 1 ft., 7 in. x 1 ft., 4 in. |
| Bathroom | Casement; picture or fixed |
1 ft. 7 in. x 1 ft., 4 in.; 3 ft. x 2 ft. |
| Basement | Egress, sliding |
1 ft., 8 in. x 2 ft.; 2 ft. x 3 ft. |
Custom windows vs. standard windows: Which is for you?
Whether you pick custom or standard windows depends on your home and personal preference. If you own a historic home or one or built before standard window sizes were set, custom windows may be the best option.
“Choosing between standard and custom window sizes depends on your home’s specific needs and your design goals,” said Michael Wandschneider, the director of product management at Marvin Windows. “Standard sizes are readily available, making them ideal for homes with typical window dimensions. However, custom sizes offer unparalleled benefits for unique architectural styles. Custom windows ensure a perfect fit, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.”
If you have a smaller budget or want to save money, standard windows will help you achieve your goal. But keep in mind that if you don’t currently have standard windows and want to convert a window to a standard size, it may cost more money to prepare the space.
How much do standard-size windows cost?
A new window, including labor, can cost an average of between $280 and $730. However, material, window placement, and geographical location can cause costs to fluctuate. In this case, higher-end costs range from $900 to $2,000 per window.
Even standard-size windows vary in price. The window style, along with its size, can cause the replacement costs to increase. For example, a standard-size double-hung window will be less costly than a standard-size casement window.
Keep in mind that size also affects cost. Although both are standard sizes, a 3-foot-by-2-foot picture window will likely be more affordable than a 5-foot-by-3-foot picture window.
Advantages of installing standard window sizes?
Installing standard-size windows can save you time and money. Because standard windows are more readily available, their cost is typically lower than custom-size ones.
“Choosing between custom and standard also comes down to affordability,” Rudin said. “Standardized windows are more cost-effective because they are mass-produced and quality assured. When you have a custom space that needs a custom window, it will be more expensive than a standard space and a standard window.”
Putting in custom windows may require you to hire a professional to help. You or your professional must measure the open spaces exactly and order custom-fit windows. The customization can add to wait times. It will almost certainly cause your price to rise. If you order a custom window, expect to pay around 50% more than the cost of a standard-size window.
How to choose the best window installer
Choosing a window installer can take time, but resist the urge to rush the process. The following steps can help you pick the right window installer for your needs:
- Determine what kind of windows you need. This means framing materials, window types and custom or standard sizes. If your home has a mixture of window styles, you may want a company that provides flexibility, like Andersen Windows.
- If you’re looking for an all-in-one shop that can provide a consultation and installation, Champion Windows or Universal Windows are good choices. They perform both services in-house.
- Naturally, your budget will dictate which window company you consider. Window Nation is a more affordable option if you want to spend less.
- Schedule consultations with multiple companies and compare quotes.
- Research companies like Window World, which offers financing, but always check with the company for savings it may not advertise.
