What Are Standard Double Hung Window Sizes?

Building a new home is a costly investment. Major renovations are not much better. If you have found yourself in one of the two situations – and have some control over the design and building process – then you have an important decision to make in terms of windows. Standard double hung window sizes vs. custom-made windows.

Custom windows give you the chance to design your living space exactly how you want it. However, custom-made windows are naturally more expensive compared to standard sizes. In the article we will examine the standard window sizes for double hung windows in order to help with the building design.

Double Hung Windows

When you begin to shop for replacement windows, you’ll notice there are several different variations. One of the most noteworthy differences in styles is single hung windows vs. double hung windows.

Single hung windows have two sashes, like a double hung window, yet only one of the sashes is operable (usually the bottom one). Meanwhile, double hung windows have two operable sashes. It allows you to slide the top and bottom portion of the window up and down.

There are several advantages to having double hung windows over single hung windows. They are much easier to clean and maintain. You can also get more airflow into the home. The only major knock on double hung windows is they run a little more expensive for the luxury. However, most homeowners feel like the extra price is well worth all the advantages.

Standard Window Sizes vs. Custom-Made Windows

After you decide on the type and style of window you need to decide what sizes fit into the new home or renovation. You have two choices: standard window sizes or custom window sizes.

Custom-made windows provide you with a lot more flexibility. Manufacturers do nail you hard for wanting a size that isn’t regularly produced. Furthermore, you’ll spend more on window treatments like blinds and curtains.

Therefore, since windows are traditionally expensive most homeowners opt to stick to standard window sizes. You save money and finding suitable window treatments is far easier too.

Understanding Standard Window Sizes

So you decided you are going to invest in new standard size windows. When you start shopping for windows, you’ll probably notice that most windows are available in the same, consistent size dimensions.

Standard window sizes, including double hung standard windows can fit into the most common rough openings in new homes or additions.

Builders use “rough openings” to build around places on the wall where windows will get inserted later on. Therefore, you have to determine the window sizes, and placement, early on in the design of the new home, addition, or renovation.

Most window manufacturers produce standard windows that are identified by whole numbers. While the actual window measurements are generally ½ inch less than the actual size, manufacturers always round up to the next whole number.

For example, if you want a double hung window of 36 inches x 24 inches the manufacturer will display the identify as 3020 (3 ft x 2 ft). However, the actual measurements of the window are actually ½ inch meaning the window is 35 ½ inches x 23 ½ inches.

Another example is a rough opening of 44 x 44 inches. The identifier for the window is 3838: 3 feet, 8 inches (height) x 3 feet, 8 inches (width). It is universally known on blueprints that the actual window size is ½ inch smaller than the rough opening.

The ½ inch different makes window installation easier because the rough opening gets fitted with flashing materials. Once the window is balanced, the installer adds shims to keep it in place while securing it to the rough opening.

Double Hung Standard Window Sizes

Double hung windows are commonly placed in bedrooms, kitchens, and hallways. They work well in just about any room. In fact, double hung windows are the most common replacement window in the United States.

Now that you know how double hung standard window sizes are identified, let’s examine the common sizes. Double hung windows vary in height from 36 inches to 72 inches. The standard heights include:

• 36 inches
• 44 inches
• 52 inches
• 54 inches
• 62 inches
• 72 inches

Meanwhile, standard double hung sizes for width vary from 24 inches to 48 inches. The standard sizes include:

• 24 inches
• 28 inches
• 32 inches
• 40 inches
• 48 inches

Remember that the actual window size is always ½ inch less than the rough opening. So long as the rough cuts factor for the ½ inch difference, you’ll have no problem shopping and installing new windows to the proper fit.

Double Hung Windows are a Proper Fit

Double hung windows make a phenomenal addition to any home, new or used. The ability to open both sashes makes cleaning and maintenance much easier.

Designing the new structure with standard window sizes will help you make the right rough cuts into the plywood and ensure a proper fit. It will also help you save money by avoiding unconventional window sizes that have to get custom-made.

Double hung windows are essentially the hallmark for modern homes. At Feldco, we have installed over 1.5 million windows for homeowners across the Midwest. We simply deliver on quality products, local services and professional installation. Are you thinking of getting double hung windows? Speak to a product specialist about double hung windows and get a free quote online today.