What are standard window sizes?

In the Chicago area, most homes are over 30 years old, even 50 years old.

These older homes were typically built with standard window sizes.

When looking to replace your home windows, you can determine if you have a standard window size or if you will need a custom window.

Each manufacturer has its own definition of standard window sizes, so take a moment to study the market before starting to cut a rough opening in your home. 

Following this guide will save you time and money.

Common types of windows

Whether you’re looking for new windows or replacement windows, knowing a thing or two about the most common window types will help you make an informed decision. A common window is usually available in standard sizes.

Single-hung and double-hung windows are among the most popular choices for both new houses and replacement windows. 

While single-hung windows have a fixed upper sash and a mobile lower sash that moves up and down, double-hung windows have both sashes mobile.

Bay windows delight with plenty of natural light and are more appealing due to their design while picture windows allow the beauty of your view to invade your home. However, picture windows have the disadvantage of being fixed windows that can’t be opened.

Sliding windows are often preferred for newer houses and are ideal for small spaces that require plenty of ventilation, such as the kitchen or bathroom. Ideal for a rainy climate, awning windows is hinged at the top and open outward, protecting the interior from rain. A casement window also is a popular option, especially since it offers unobstructed views. These windows open by swinging to the side or up.

Each of these windows is available in standard sizes and is a perfect match for a variety of homes. However, in order to choose the right fit for your home’s rough opening, you need to learn about window measurements:

Window Height 

When measuring window heights, you need to measure from the high point of the sill to the top of the window opening; make sure you write down three measurements: one at the left side, one at the center, and one at the right side of the window; when you are going to order the window, you will need to use the smallest measurement of the three.

Window Width

To determine your window width, measure between the jambs at the top, middle, and bottom of the window opening; just like with the window height, use the smallest measurement when sending in the order for your windows.

Window Depth

Window depth measurement doesn’t include pulleys and parting strips and needs to be made at least 3 ¼ inches of opening depth between the inside window trim and the outside blind stop strip.

Rough Opening

An important part of the measurement process, the size of the rough opening is established by measuring from the inside of one side of the window frame to the other.

Manufacturers decided to simplify the window sizing process by delivering standard window sizes and using a simple window size notation. 

The notation is the combined width and height, and is always a whole number for the rough opening, even though the actual measurements are usually ½ inch less. 

A 2426 window measures 2 feet, 4 inches by 2 feet, 6 inches. The first two numbers are for the window’s width, while the second two define the window’s height.

Measurement notation examples:

2020 windows – designed to fit a 2-by-2-foot rough opening and measures 23 ½ by 23 ½ inches.

3838 windows – designed to fit a 44 by 44 inch-rough opening and measures 3 feet, 8 inches wide by 3 feet, 8 inches long

Standard window sizes

Standard window sizes vary depending on the type of window you’re planning to use for your home. 

Manufacturers take into consideration the rough opening sizes when establishing their standard window sizes. 

However, keep in mind that they always take off a ½ inch on both the window width and height ranges to ensure proper installation and function. 

The ½ inch allows for the window installer to easily install the window and secure it afterward with shims.

Here are the most common sizes for standard windows:

Double-hung windows:

•         Width: between 24 and 48 inches
•         Height: between 36 and 72 inches

Picture windows:

•         Width: between 2 feet and 8 feet (standard dimensions: 2 ft, 3 ft, 4 ft, 6 ft, 8 ft)
•         Height: between 1 foot and 8 feet (standard dimensions: 2 ft, 3 ft, 4 ft, 5 ft, 6 ft, 8 ft)

Sliding windows:

•         Width: between 36 and 84 inches (standard dimensions: 36 in, 48 in, 60 in, 72 in, 84 in)
•         Height: between 24 and 60 inches (standard dimensions: 24 in, 36 in, 48 in, 60 in)

Bay windows:

•         Width: between 3 feet, 6 inches and 10 feet, 6 inches
•         Height: between 3 feet and 6 feet, 6 inches

Casement windows:

•         Width: between 1 foot, 2 inches and 2 feet, 11.5 inches
•         Height: between 2 feet, 5.5 inches and 6 feet, 5.5 inches

Awning windows:

•         Width: between 2 inches and 3 feet, 10 inches
•         Height: between 1 foot, 8 inches and 7 feet, 8 inches

Custom-size windows

And there are always the custom-size windows that need to be manufactured based on the exact measurements of your home’s rough openings. 

A window dimension usually depends on the year when your house was built – the older the house, the fewer chances to match a current standard window size, the age of your home – time and weather may affect the size of the rough opening, the style of your home – classic homes need different windows than modern residences, and if you need to purchase windows for a new construction or you’re searching for replacement windows.

Conclusion

Now that you’re familiar with the measurement process and know a few things about the standard window sizes, you’re ready to proceed with your order for new windows or replacement windows. 

However, you should remember that even though measuring and finding the right window sizes of your home seems simple and straightforward, once you’re face to face with the actual rough opening or window, there may be some hesitation. 

And the right measurement is key to finding a perfect match for your house.

Call the Chicago Window Guy to take care of both the measurement and installation of your windows. Save precious time and money!

from
https://chicagowindowguy.com/home-tips/standard-window-sizes/

What’s better, single and double-hung windows?

Despite their similar aspect, single and double-hung windows have distinctive characteristics that justify their price difference, as well as their different levels of energy efficiency and maintenance.

Every homeowner will eventually have to decide which type of window they prefer for their property, whether they have just bought their home or they are planning a window replacement project.

Both style windows are a classic choice, and two of the most popular types of windows available on the market.

They are both vertical-sliding windows that include an upper and lower sash into their anatomy.

From a distance, they may appear to be the same type of window. However, once you study them carefully, you’ll notice several essential differences.

Considering these factors, which type of window should you choose for your home?

We will explore in this article everything you need to know about single-hung windows and double-hung windows.

Single Hung Windows

What are the key characteristics of a single-hung style window?

A standard window style often used in the construction of residential spaces and office spaces, a single-hung window comes equipped with one fixed sash on the top and one moveable sash on the bottom.

In other words, a single-hung window has a single sash or operational panel. Thus, when opening the window, the bottom sash allows for the window to slide up while partially obstructing the top sash. Usually, single-hung does not conveniently tilt in and out.

Due to its characteristics, a single-hung proves to be less efficient and practical than a double-hung. However, many homeowners prefer to invest in single-hung due to their more affordable prices. Cost is the most crucial factor that tips the balance into the favor of single-hung style windows.

What is the cost you can expect of single-hung windows?

The average costs for single-hung style windows vary from $100 to $400 per window without including the installation costs. The lower price justifies by the fact that single-hung has less moving parts than double-hung, are easier to manufacture, and are made with affordable materials. Moreover, due to their rather simple characteristics, the installation costs for single-hung are lower than for double-hung, reaching an average of $75 to $150 per window.

Double-hung windows

What are the key characteristics of a double-hung style window?

A double-hung style window is superior to a single-hung due to its higher level of versatility. This window style includes two sashes and allows for each sash to be opened. Due to the possibility to open both the top and bottom sashes, a double-hung provides better ventilation than a single-hung.

Moreover, double-hung style windows tilt in for easy cleaning and allow the homeowners to clean the exterior without any special equipment or hiring a window cleaning company.

What is the expected cost of a double-hung window?

A higher price for double-hung style windows is justified by their qualities and superior characteristics. A double hung-window can cost anywhere from $400 to $600 to which you should also add the installation costs that range from $200 to $350 per window.

As you can see, the cost difference between single-hung and double-hung is significant. Despite their versatility and higher functionality, double-hung style windows tend to be less popular than single-hung style windows because of their higher prices. However, their costs are determined by the numerous options added to a double-hung window, such as their variety of materials, security, and UV protection.

Important Pricing Note: Prices listed above are averages. The price may vary based on many factors, including material and features. Request quotes from several companies to ensure you get the best window at the best price.

Are you in the Chicago area and need to replace your windows?

Call Chicago Window Guys for a Free Quote: (847) 701-4011

Which are better –double-hung or single-hung windows?

The answer to this question depends on what you want from your window. The main advantages and disadvantages associated with these windows are determined by their anatomy. Single-hung has only one moveable sash, while double-hung have two operable sashes.

Here are the main differences between single-hung and double-hung style windows:

Ventilation

While single-hung style windows open only at the bottom, double-hung allows owners to open both the top and bottom of the window frame. Logically, the double-hung window offers a higher level of ventilation and airflow.

Moreover, a double-hung window can ventilate the hot air through the top sash, while its bottom sash allows for air circulation. Casement windows indeed provide the maximum of air ventilation, but considering that not many homes have the necessary space for the opening of casement windows, double-hung offer the best compromise space-airflow.

Energy efficiency

If you’re looking for the best energy-efficient window, depending on materials and hardware, a single-hung window could be your best choice.

Despite the higher level of functionality of double-hung style windows, they seem to come second when discussing their energy efficiency.

While double-hung style windows have more moveable parts, they also may have problems providing a proper sealing at the top edge. The explanation is quite simple: a window with a single operable sash is more comfortable to lock and seal than a window with two operable sashes.

Important to note that not all windows are built the same. No matter if you buy single or double-hung, choose top quality material and features and even double-hung style windows too assure a high level of energy efficiency and prevent air infiltration.

Maintenance

Due to their moveable parts, double-hung windows are easier to clean both from the interior and the exterior.

One of the best features of a double-hung window is that it doesn’t only slide up and down, but it also tilts in for easy cleaning.

Single-hung windows are typically more challenging to clean based on their location. If you want to clean their exterior, you don’t have any other option than to go outside or call a window cleaning company, if you live on the upper stories.

Safety

Installed and closed correctly, both window styles provide a high level of security and protection from intruders.

However, some double-hung windows may prove to be less secure, but only if they are not locked properly. That’s because the upper sash can be slightly pushed in the frame by gravity. However, this can easily be avoided as long as you check to see if your double-hung window is locked correctly.

Moreover, double-hung windows prove to be a lot safer for families with children because while they allow airflow through the top of the window, the bottom sash can be kept closed.

Style

If you’re looking for affordable materials and lower prices, the single-hung windows are your best option.

However, if you want to have the possibility to choose from a variety of materials and colors, opt for double-hung windows. Just like picture windows, single-hung windows are available in various sizes and shapes due to their fixed sash and add an authentic look to historic homes.

The sizes and shapes of double-hung windows are limited by their operable sashes that don’t allow customization. Still, they do charm homeowners with their extensive range of colors, trim, and materials.

Conclusion

Both window styles are ideal both as new windows and replacement windows. Considering all of the above, most homeowners make their choice depending mostly on the window costs. However, it’s good to keep in mind that, despite the significantly lower price of single-hung windows, double-hung windows can be an excellent choice to be a better investment in the long run due to their better materials and security and maintenance features.

from
https://chicagowindowguy.com/home-tips/single-and-double-hung-windows/

Why You Should Use Tempered Glass in Your Home

Have you ever wondered what you could do to make your home safer? Picture this: you’re curled up on the couch watching a late-night thriller movie and the home invasion scene comes on. As the villain effortlessly breaks through the terrified homeowner’s window, you glance over at your living room window and suddenly you’re concerned about your own safety.

I know the feeling. I’ve been there, double-checking my locks and leaving a light on because I’m worried that someone might break-in. It felt like there was nothing I could do to make my house safer, but get this: I was wrong.

That’s right – there IS something that you can do to make your windows 4-5 times stronger. And you know what? All you need to do is choose a different type of glass – tempered glass.

Maybe you’re thinking that you have already taken other steps to secure your house. Great, but don’t stop reading just yet, because tempered glass does more than help keeps bad guys out. We will also be sharing how tempered glass can protect you and your family from accidental injury.

Want to find out more about this special glass and how it works? First off, let’s start by introducing the world of glass. Frankly, most of us don’t know all that much about glass and we just assume it is all created equal. But consider this: there are many types of glass and each is designed for a different purpose.

By now you’re probably wondering what type of glass is used in everyday windows and how to tell if your existing windows are regular glass or tempered glass. But before we go into how to identify the type of glass that you have, we need to learn about both kinds.

What Kind of Glass is Used in Windows and Doors?

Annealed Glass

The standard type of glass that you can expect to find in basic home windows is called annealed glass. Annealed glass is a softer glass that is cooled slowly during production to help it withstand temperature fluctuations.

Tempered Glass

A stronger type of glass which can also be found in homes and businesses is tempered or toughened glass. Tempered glass is a variety of safety glass which gains its strength from the rapid heating and cooling process that it goes through during production.

International building codes require that tempered glass be used in certain locations such as near showers, hot tubs, and stairs where the risk of someone falling into the glass is higher. When purchasing, expect the tempered glass to cost more than annealed glass.

What Makes Tempered Glass a Good Choice?

Tempered glass is a preferred window material choice for two reasons: durability and safety.

Durability

Want to see just how much abuse a tempered window can take? In side-by-side window pane tests, baseballs and golf balls simply bounced off a tempered glass window, but they shattered the annealed glass. Keep that in mind the next time you see a flock of neighborhood kids headed down the street to play baseball.

Safety

Fair warning: even a tempered glass window can be broken, but if it does break, it breaks much differently than annealed glass. This is where your family’s safety comes into play.

Annealed glass breaks into sharp shards that can get embedded in little feet and hands. If your elderly parent or your little child falls through an annealed glass window, they are going to end up with nasty cuts.

This is where the tempered glass fits in. When tempered glass breaks, it breaks into small, smoother and more rounded pieces than annealed glass. Your loved ones are much less likely to cut themselves on the smooth edges of broken tempered glass.

How to Tell if Glass is Tempered

So how do you tell if you already have tempered glass windows? It’s easier than you think. There are a few ways to find out if a window is tempered (and only one of them involves breaking the window).

You start by checking for an etched stamp in one of the window corners that say “Tempered” or “Temp.”

No stamp? Don’t stop yet because there is still a chance your window is tempered, and the stamp is simply hidden by the window frame.

Wait for a sunny day, then put on a pair of polarized sunglasses and look at the window in question. If it is tempered, you will see a series of dark, shadowy lines across the glass. These are leftover by the rollers that the window pane sat on during tempering.

The Bottom Line

To recap, the most common types of glass used in homes are annealed and tempered. Tempered glass is specially treated to be stronger and safer than annealed glass, so it is used in more high-risk locations where it is mandated by building code. Expect tempered glass to break less easily and if it does break, to be less sharp and dangerous than annealed glass.

Now go take a look at your current windows and see if they are tempered. If not, give us a call and we will walk you through how to make your home safer with tempered glass.

from
https://chicagowindowguy.com/home-tips/why-you-should-use-tempered-glass-in-your-home/

What are Good Ways to Secure My House?

You work hard to earn what you have, and the last thing you want is for someone to break into your home and steal from you. Unfortunately, the most recent FBI crime reports document an estimated 1.4 million annual burglaries in the United States.

Each of these break-ins costs the homeowner an average of roughly $2,400, not to mention the time of dealing with insurance companies, police reports, and home repairs or the emotional and mental impact.

You may not be able to make your home 100% burglar-proof, but there are some simple, actionable steps you can take so your home becomes less appealing to a burglar out trolling for easy targets.

 

Reinforce (and Lock) Your Doors

One of the first entry points burglars go to is your front door. Is it locked? Good job – you passed the initial test.

Now, what else can you do to make your door stronger?

In most forced entries, the door itself isn’t what breaks. Usually, the weakest point is actually the doorjamb. A swift kick to a non-reinforced doorjamb splinters the wood. To combat this, newer doors are being made with heavy metal reinforcing plates.

Not in the market for new doors? Upgrade the security of your existing doors by installing metal-reinforced box strike plates with 3” screws.

Some other DIY door security upgrades include replacing existing deadbolts with quality Grade 1 deadbolt and swapping out the deadbolt strike plates and screws as well.

Lock Your Windows

The second most common entry point in home burglaries is through windows. The good news is that there are some easy steps you can take to make your windows more burglar-proof.

For starters, inspect your windows’ existing locks and ensure that they work. Next step – actually lock them any time you are away from home and at night when you go to bed.

After-market security bars that are easy to remove from the inside, but keep the window closed.

A final security measure is a glass break sensor that will notify you if your window is broken. This can be a stand-alone sensor or may operate as part of a larger home security system (more on that later).

Hide (REALLY hide) the Spare Key

If you are one of the 18% of Americans who leave a spare house key hidden outside, you may want to rethink that practice. At the very least, choose a less obvious hiding place.

A recent survey found that 35% of homeowners said they stashed a spare door key in a fake rock and a scary 25% of respondents simply slid the key under the door mat (the first place a would-be burglar is likely to look). [1]

If you must have a spare, store it in your vehicle, at work or with a trusted nearby family member, friend or neighbor.

Light Up Your Yard

In addition to some strategically placed ornamental lighting, install motion-sensor floodlights that can be turned on after everyone has gone inside for the evening.

Pro Tip: Be sure to install the floodlights in a high enough location that a burglar can’t simply walk up and unscrew the lightbulb.

Don’t Give Them a Place to Hide

Now that you’ve illuminated your yard, where do you think a potential burglar will want to go? That’s right – they will be hiding anywhere they can.

You don’t have to remove all of your landscaping, but do conduct your own risk assessment of your property as it is now.

Are there easy hiding places like soft hedges and shrubs near doors, windows or other entry points? What can you do to make those places less inviting?

Install a Home Security System

Are you curious about home security systems but wondering whether they are actually effective?

A study conducted by the University of North Carolina’s Criminal Justice Department found that 83% of potential burglars would try to find out if a house had an alarm system. If they learned that the house had an alarm, 60% would choose another, less well-protected target.

If an alarm system was discovered mid-attempt, 50% of burglars would always leave and 31% would sometimes leave.

This means that only 13% of burglars will always continue the burglary after finding out that you have a security system.

Now that you’re ready to look into them, there are many home security systems to choose from, both professionally monitored and non-monitored.

Learn how the systems work, then choose the best fit for you.

Complete systems typically come with a control panel, door and window sensors, motion sensors, surveillance cameras, a high-decibel alarm plus yard signs and window stickers to advertise that your house is secured.

Commit to Consistently Using Whatever Security Measures You Have Installed

An unlocked door provides easy access to your home and even the most elaborate and high-tech home security system does you no good if you don’t consistently arm it.

Complacency is dangerous and can put you and your home at risk. Whatever steps you take to secure your home, choose options that you are confident you and your family will commit to using on a regular basis.

[1] http://www.eyewitnesssurveillance.com/americans-dont-lock-doors-survey/

Look at our video!

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https://chicagowindowguy.com/home-tips/what-are-good-ways-to-secure-my-house/

What Kind of Glass is Best for Skylights? [+ a guide to skylight types and coatings]

Imagine what it would be like to transform that dark, gloomy spare room into a bright, sun-filled retreat by day and an indoor stellar observatory by night. Now wouldn’t it be great if you could let in all that light without needing to install windows that provide your nosy next-door neighbor a clear view into the room?

The solution is simple – skylights. Now maybe you have been avoiding skylights because you heard horror stories about leaks and other problems. Admittedly, skylights can seem like a somewhat counter-intuitive concept. After all, why would you want to take a perfectly good roof and cut a hole in it?

The good news is that modern skylights are much more reliable than their original counterparts. You can have your bright natural light and a weatherproof house too. Just plan for your skylight installation and choose the skylight that is right for you.

Not sure how to choose a skylight? We have put together the necessary information on skylight types, materials, and coating options to prepare you to pick out the perfect skylight.

Ready? Let’s get started.

What conditions does your skylight need to withstand?

Before we dive into what specific types of glass are best for skylights, let’s first talk about what challenging conditions your skylights need to endure.

UV Light

As that gorgeous natural light comes streaming into your room, it first passes through the skylight. That means that whatever material your skylight is made of must be designed to handle extended UV light exposure.

Precipitation

Rain, snow, sleet, hail, ice – these unforgiving elements all land directly on your roof and skylights. Be sure they can take it.

Impact

Tree branches are the most likely cause of impact damage, although other airborne debris from a heavy wind-storm can also cause damage. Know how your skylight will react to impact damage.

What types of skylights can I choose from?

Skylights come in two operational types, giving you options for how your skylight functions.

Fixed/Inoperable

Just like they sound, fixed or inoperable skylights don’t open and close. They simply remain stationary and let light in.

Venting/Operable

If you want your skylight to function more like a window and allow both light and air to come in, choose a venting or operable style of the skylight. These skylights can either be opened manually, with a remote or – on very high-end models – automatically, based on built-in rain and moisture sensors.

What materials are skylights made from?

Sound like you know what you’re talking about when you refer to your material choices as your “glazing options.” Skylights can be glazed with either plastic or several types of glass, although glass is usually preferred.

Does it matter which skylight glazing you choose? Yes, it does, so let’s check out the pros and cons of each.

Plastic

Plastic is the original glazing option and one that has been used for a long time. It has a few pros, but many cons and it is becoming a less common choice.

Pros

• Budget-friendly
• Light-weight
• Multiple shapes available

Cons

• Scratches more easily
• Discolors more easily
• Less clear view
• Allows more UV light through
• Only comes in standard sizes

Glass

The preferred glazing for skylights is glass and there are several variations of glass to choose from. They share some similar pros and cons along with having their own unique traits.

Pros

• More sophisticated appearance
• Clear view
• Many shapes available
• Many sizes available
• Doesn’t scratch as easily
• Better UV protection

Cons

• • Heavier
  • Custom sizes and shapes are more expensive

Tempered Glass

What exactly is tempered glass? Check this out: when a piece of glass has been tempered, this means that it was super-heated and then cooled rapidly. This process results in a piece of glass that is 4-5 times stronger than the original. If a sheet of tempered glass breaks, it shatters into a lot of small, more rounded pieces instead of sharp shards.

Laminated Glass

Do you remember playing with a laminating machine and sandwiching a piece of paper between two sheets of the laminate material? Perfect. You understand laminated glass.

To make laminated glass, one sheet of clear vinyl is encased between two sheets of glass. They are bonded together, creating a super-strong, impact-resistant glass. If the glass somehow does break, the sheets all hold together with minimal loose glass falling inside your house.

As if that’s not enough, there’s more. Laminated glass blocks a whopping 99% of UV light and it also has soundproofing properties.

Tempered-Over-Laminated Glass

Now you may be wondering if you should use tempered or laminated glass for your skylights and how to choose. The good news? You don’t have to.

Here’s the thing: the absolute best kind of glass for a skylight is tempered-over-laminated. This hybrid approach combines the strengths of both tempered and laminated glass to give you the strongest, most resilient, best quality skylight you can imagine.

What coatings are used on skylights?

Your choice of glazing isn’t the only factor that determines how well your skylight performs. You can further enhance the performance by adding coatings to your glass.

Tinting

Just like on your car windows, adding tinting to a skylight helps it to absorb more of the solar heat and keep it from transferring inside. This keeps your home cooler in the hot summer months.

Low-Emissivity (Low-E)

The Midwest is blessed with both heat and cold, so a Low-E coating can really benefit you here. This type of coating helps improve energy efficiency in both the summer and winter. The coating reflects your home’s inside temperature back inside instead, so you keep more of your cool summer air or toasty winter air in.

The Bottom Line

Skylights can bring light to an otherwise dreary room while still maintaining visual privacy. Remember to select a skylight that stands up to all the stressors that it will be faced with. Skylight glazing options include both plastic and glass although glass is usually preferred. The best kind of glass for a skylight is tempered-over-laminated and coatings can be added to further enhance the skylight’s performance.

Are you ready to install a skylight in your home? Contact us and let us know what room in your home is ready to be upgraded with a skylight.

from
https://chicagowindowguy.com/home-tips/what-kind-of-glass-is-best-for-skylights-a-guide-to-skylight-types-and-coatings/

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