Measuring for House Window Replacement
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    SsCoobyDoO
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    Measuring for House Window Replacement

    by SsCoobyDoO » Tue Feb 25, 2025 4:56 pm

    I'm replacing siding and windows this summer and want to make sure I'm measuring the window correctly. I'll be buying windows with a nailing flange, if that makes a difference.

    The photo shows a 42" height (excuse my shitty tape) and it's 60" wide. Menards has 60" width windows in either a 36" or 48" height.

    Does that mean I'll need a 60x42 custom window? Not looking to change openings to fit a 48" height window. I want to at least make sure I'm measuring correctly. I peeled back the siding and directly above where I measured you can see the nailing flange.

    Thanks guys!


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    hamemont
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    Re: Measuring for House Window Replacement

    by hamemont » Tue Feb 25, 2025 7:58 pm

    The store will usually have a deal showing you where to measure or how to convert your measurements to place an order. I just did a bunch and provided them with the "rough opening" size and they all come about a 1/2" shorter or under the opening size.

    And yeah probably will be a special order.
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    Marigioshi
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    Re: Measuring for House Window Replacement

    by Marigioshi » Tue Feb 25, 2025 7:59 pm

    If your window frames aren’t square, measuring diagonally from corner to corner will help identify any issues. Also, always measure in three spots—top, middle, and bottom—to account for any irregularities. If you need a quick and handy way to verify your measurements, ruler.onl is useful for checking them right on your screen without grabbing a physical ruler. It’s super convenient for double-checking small details.
  • saul
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    Re: Measuring for House Window Replacement

    by saul » Sun Mar 09, 2025 1:26 pm

    When you're talking to Menards, ask them about the nailing flange dimensions, you want to make sure it'll actually fit properly against your sheathing.
  • Marlow
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    Re: Measuring for House Window Replacement

    by Marlow » Thu Jun 18, 2026 10:26 pm

    I've had to deal with the same measuring headaches before replacing my own windows, and getting the "rough opening" right was what helped avoid a lot of frustration later. I realized pretty quickly that you usually do need something special ordered if your opening doesn’t match the common sizes, so don’t be surprised if you’re looking at a 60x42 custom order. Getting those diagonal and triple-point measurements can save you big time, especially in older houses where nothing is square anymore.

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