Standard window sizes are essential to consider when remodeling your existing home or designing a new house. The size of window matters and window manufacturers vary greatly in terms of quality, and additional costs but will provide a free quote. So get your size charts ready because you’re going to learn what the standard size of your window or house windows should be.
Window replacement can be complex. A great place to check for some deals is Home Depot. Look for free shipping and get this done in warm weather. The best way to approach this is to have a plan in advance. Takes a bit of time but is worth it.
Your kitchen sink and other parts of your kitchen depend a lot on your chosen kitchen windows and the natural light they let in. No matter what window styles you choose for your new window, such as bay windows, awning windows, sash windows, or picture windows, it is crucial to be familiar with the standard sizes.
Standard window dimensions for kitchen windows must have a head height of at least 12 inches with a minimum width of 14 inches. However, most kitchen windows won’t have these dimensions, and these are only the bare minimum measurements used as a guide. The window width and standard heights for your chosen windows will depend a lot on the placement of the windows and the specific style you select.
Read on below to know more about the specific details.
Table of Contents
- Does Standard Kitchen Window Size Exist?
- Common Window Types and Their Respective Kitchen Window Sizes
- Frequently Asked Questions
Does Standard Kitchen Window Size Exist?
Before anything else, it is vital to keep in mind that the so-called standard size of a kitchen window is only a myth. The industry doesn’t have standard sizing, mainly when custom windows are the trend for houses. So there is only the right size if the window placement gives you a good view, or that classic style, you want for a large room or small space.
Standardizing window sizes also vary among manufacturers that develop windows in different sizes considered standard. Both houses and windows are mass-produced, leading to industry-wide standards.
That said, there is a standard bathroom window size of which two are very common: Width 36-84 inches; Height 24-60 inches. A window size notation, by the way, is the width and height combined for size windows.
But once again, the manufacturers have the discretion to decide what they deem standard. You can also expect these “standards” to change after some time.
Common Window Types and Their Respective Kitchen Window Sizes
There are different types of windows that you can find in the market right now, and each one has its respective size.
Awning Window
Awning windows: A hinged window where hinges appear at the top of the window. These windows open outward to allow ample ventilation and more fresh air inside. Awning windows are usually used together with other styles and are easy to close and open. You can even keep these weatherproof windows open during light rain. The inside of the window should have proper insulation to avoid condensation.
The standard width for awning windows can range from 2″ to 3’10”. Meanwhile, the standard window height for these windows is at 1’8″ up to 7’8″. The simple size notation on the lower end for the replacement window is 2018.
They are a great idea for bathroom windows are they’re usually smaller windows. Awning windows are a good idea for small children as they can still open and are small enough to limit the risks of the child falling out.
Awning windows are sometimes at the bottom of the window or top separated by separate glass panels which are standard picture window size.
Bay Windows
Bay windows can add unique architectural detail, open up your kitchen space, and capture more beauty and light that you can never get from your standard windows. Adding just a single bay window to your kitchen or even your living room can enhance both its beauty and space. It is one of the significant improvements you can ever make for your home and can be a worthy investment when added to the suitable wall space.
Any bay window opens the kitchen to beautiful views outside. The type of bay window you install will also depend on the look of the exterior wall of your home. Bay window is the best choice if you want a big window that brings in a lot of natural light. It is the correct window size for this result.
The standard widths for bay windows can range from a minimum of 3 feet and 6 inches to a maximum of 10 feet and 6 inches. The expected heights for this type of window can range from 3 feet up to 6 feet and 6 inches.
If you prefer more oversized windows, you might want to consider custom sizes for your bay windows that may further increase the costs. Bow windows, on the other hand, are larger windows found in older homes but can be new home windows where enough room exists, such as a living room or dining room.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are ideal replacement windows for narrow and tall spaces. Also called crank windows, the window openings can either be outward or inward like a door. These windows often have a tiny crack at the base, to allow turning for the window to open outward.
There is also a screen that separates the inside from the outside. Single casement windows are an excellent idea to use above kitchen sinks with uninterrupted space on top.
There are standard measurements for them. Standard casement window sizes can vary from 17 up to 73 inches, and width ranges from 14 up to 35.5 inches. Based on this wide range of variance, it is safe to say that casement windows can fit in almost any space for your kitchen or dining room.
Double-Hung Windows
The double-hung window is another great option for the kitchen. Double-hung windows are operable windows that feature two operating sashes that move. You can use the ventilation available on the bottom, top, or both, thanks to the double-hung design.
These windows are excellent options to consider if your existing window doesn’t provide optimum ventilation in your kitchen. The single-hung versions are also popular, allowing ventilation on the window’s lower half.
Double-hung windows have standard width measurements of 24 to 48 inches and are 36 to 72 inches tall. However, fitting these windows over a sink tends to be tricky, although the right design can make anything possible.
Pass-Through Windows
While pass-through windows are probably not on your list of considerations when designing a new kitchen or home, these large windows can be a great addition. Pass-through windows are a space cut out from the walls between connected rooms to pass items back and forth.
If you love to dine outdoors or your dining room is separate from your kitchen, a pass-through window might be what you need to make it easier to deliver food to your family, friends, or guests.
While these windows are often large, you can still opt for a small window with a width of only 16 inches. There are no definite rules when it comes to these openings.
Picture Windows
Picture windows, from the name itself, are pretty much self-explanatory. In general, these large windows do not have glazing bars. These windows frame outdoor views or scenes, giving the appearance and feel of a picture.
Typically, picture windows don’t open, and these are perfect for kitchens with a great view. However, it is still crucial for your kitchen to have a window available for venting purposes, and these windows are ideal for open-plan and large kitchens.
The standard measurements for picture windows range from 24 to 96 inches wide and 12 to 96 inches tall. Something larger is most recommended for picture windows for you to enjoy the view thoroughly.
Sliding Window
The basic sliding windows that open to the right or left side are another popular option for kitchens and other rooms in the house, and this is why it is common to see these windows in many homes today.
Sliding windows close and open with ease on the sliding track. Aside from being easy to close and open, sliding windows are perfect for ventilation. These are affordable windows that are available in various sizes.
The standard measurements for sliding windows range from 36 up to 84 inches in width, and height is at least 24 up to 60 inches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Should You Install Windows in your Kitchen?
Windows in kitchens are higher than windows in other rooms for many standard design houses. The kitchen mainly has counter space with limited unused and open wall space.
Upper cabinets can wrap around the facing window and kitchen sink if they’re ceiling height across the counter areas.
Your kitchen windows should appear in locations that maximize natural light. Many kitchens at least have a window right above the sink. You should never place windows over the cooking surface since this can pose a hazard if someone tries reaching over a burning stove to open the window.
What Should be the Size of a Rough Opening for a Kitchen Window?
A rough opening’s dimensions are critical for energy efficiency and window fitting. Rough window opening must be around ¾ inch to 1 inch bigger than common window sizes.
This opening must be level, square, and plumb to guarantee a precise fit. The window might not fit if you don’t cut the opening correctly, or there can also be gaps that will allow valuable cold or hot air to seep out.
For any carpenter effort, things must be plumb, level and square. Square means 90-degree corners, and plumb is vertical and determined by a plumb bob while levels show when posts are plumb. What is a plumb bob? A heavier-weight object attached to a string helps define a vertical line.
How Should You Measure Windows for Rooms?
It would be best to consider several building codes when deciding where to place your windows and the size they should be. By mandate, window sills on operational windows should be at 44 inches from the floor. However, this clearance is unnecessary for windows that don’t close or open.
The windows must also be proportionate to the room, and you also need to factor in the surroundings. The general rule dictates that not over 20% to 30% of a home’s total area can be glass, and this number includes windows, glass doors, or skylights.
Personal style and preference will also come into account. It would be best to consider how you like your home to look outside and the inside. Your windows must reflect your sense of style with proportionate width and height.
Is New Construction Window-sized the Same as Replacement Windows?
New construction windows are for brand new houses; these are different from standard-sized replacement windows. It is essential to know the difference between them before you buy new windows, particularly if you plan to install on your own and are not that familiar with this process.
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John Thompson, Writer and Commentator, EvolutDesign.com
Soldier, writer, researcher, consultant, and bon vivant, John Thompson is the author of numerous columns, op-eds, reports, briefs, short stories and books as the “Felicity Files” and “Spirit Over Steel: A Chronology of the Second World War” (version III). Often found hunched over his computer, or in his garden, and now often found doing both. His diverse talent has led him to work in industries and projects such as energy, security and home construction and renovation.
