What size is a standard window in a house?
Standard window sizes for single units fall into a few categories: Single-hung, single-wide units often start at 20” by 36”. Common sizes include widths of 24”, 28”, 32”, and 36”; and heights of 36”, 48”, 60”, 72”, and other even numbers. Double-hung, single-wide units often start at 40” by 36”. Common widths include 48 ...
How wide is a standard window?
Window width sizes range between 36 inches, 48 inches, 60 inches, 72 inches, and 84 inches. However, with common window sizes, most windows in US households are 36 inches wide. The standard window height is between 36 inches to 60 inches.
What is standard window?
While you can purchase custom windows of nearly any size to fit any window frame, standard window sizes make the process easier and less expensive. Standard-size windows are windows of set dimensions that fit into commonly found openings in newly built homes.
What is the average size of a window?
Standard Window Width – The most common window is a double hung window, which slides up and down, found on many homes. The width of these windows includes the standard measurements of 24-inches wide, 28, 32, and 40-inches. Standard Window Height – The same window’s standard height includes 36-inches, 44, 52, 54, and 62-inches.
What is the standard window well size?
What size egress window well do I need? To meet egress window requirements, the window well should be 64 inches wide by 36 inches in projection and between 3 to 5 feet deep (based on how far above/below grade the window will sit). For aesthetic purposes, it's best to center the egress window in the window well.
How do I know what size window well I need?
Measuring for an Egress WellMeasure from the maximum grade level (ground level) down to the floor level of the basement. ... Subtract 28" from dimension A to get the minimum required height of the Egress Window Well.The minimum width of the Egress Well is determined by the size of the Egress Window you would like to use.
How much wider Should a window well be than the window?
Leaving enough space to fit the window well comfortably, place it where you intend to install it and ensure it fits. Your window well needs to be at least 10 to 12 inches below the window opening. You'll also want to leave at least 3 inches of the window well above the surface grade.
How tall should my window well be?
For example if you have a window that's 12 inches (30 cm) wide by 30 inches (76 cm) tall, then you need a well that's at least 38 inches (97 cm) tall and 18 inches (46 cm) wide.
Can you pour concrete in a window well?
Concrete. For long-term peace of mind, go with a poured concrete window well. It has greater stability and lasts far longer than the others.
What is the best material for a window well?
In terms of strength and durability, concrete window wells are absolutely the best choice. If you're doing a DIY installation and you don't have any power equipment to maneuver heavy slabs of concrete, you might choose a plastic or metal window well.
Does a window well need a drain?
Window Well Drain – Every window well should have a drain to allow water to exit the window well and not build to a level that creates a basement seepage problem. Drains can be connected to interior or exterior drain tile or can be run to daylight where a proper slope exists.
What do you put in the bottom of a window well?
The bottom of the well should contain loose gravel, which also helps with drainage. This should not be allowed to become too compacted or it will also cause water to collect in the well. You can either replace gravel periodically or remove it and clean it before putting it back in place.
Should window well drains be filled with gravel?
A common method to help with window well drainage is to place several inches of gravel at the bottom. This will allow the water to dissipate into the ground slowly to the weeping tile system, rather than sit in the soil next to the window.
How far above grade should a window well be?
When installing the window well, be sure the window well is between 1 to 4 inches above the final grade. The window well should be mounted flush against the foundation wall and caulked creating a sealed, water tight fit. Drainage is required.
Are window wells a good idea?
Basement windows and window wells are a good way to allow natural light into your home. Natural light will open up your space and take your basement from dark and dreary to bright and inviting. Window well materials come in a variety of beautiful stone and metal finishes, which can even add exterior charm to your home.
How deep should window well gravel Be?
Fill the Well with Gravel Pour a two to three-inch layer of gravel at the bottom of the window well. Use your shovel to pack the gravel down and shift it around if it isn't properly even. If the gravel reaches your windowsill, it's too high.
How do you measure a window well for replacement?
How to Measure for a Window Well CoverMeasure from outer edge to outer edge on the window well where it meets the house wall to find the length of the window well. ... Measure the distance from the inside edge to the inside edge on the window well, where it meets the house wall.More items...
How do you measure for a replacement window?
0:070:45How to Measure for Replacement Windows - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThree places always make sure your measurements are taken from between the inside of the jamb onMoreThree places always make sure your measurements are taken from between the inside of the jamb on each side of the three measurements you always choose the smallest.
How do you measure for an egress window?
HOW IS THE NET CLEAR OPENING DETERMINED?Take measurements of the width and height when the window is fully opened. It is important to measure from inside of. ... pictures below). ... by multiplying width times height and dividing this total by 144 (1 square foot).
How do you calculate the rough opening of a window?
0:191:08JELD-WEN Tip: How to Measure for a New Window - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOne at the top one in the center and one at the bottom measuring from face of stud to face of stud.MoreOne at the top one in the center and one at the bottom measuring from face of stud to face of stud. Circle the smallest measurement. This is your width size next measure the height of the openings.
What Is a Window Well?
Older basements, if they had windows, kept the windows at a minimum and kept them small. The low light and controlled temperatures were necessary for long-term storage of canned goods, root vegetables, and other items. But modern homes have expanded the concept of a basement far beyond that of a storage area. So, the basements in these homes require larger windows, and more of them.
How high should a well be?
The height of the well should be no more than 44 inches, as higher well walls are considered to be hindrances to escape in the event of an emergency. As always, check with your local permitting office to verify building codes in your area about basement egress, window wells, and window well covers. Read More.
How do window wells work?
How Window Well and Well Covers Work. Metal or plastic window wells are the solution to a window well collapse. Window wells act like a permanent storm door for your basement window, providing extra protection for this high-impact area. Window wells fit into an existing well. Window wells are curved or rectangular galvanized steel ...
How big should an egress window be?
Horizontal dimensions should be large enough to allow the window or door to be fully opened. The total area of the well should be at least 9 square feet.
What causes a window well to collapse?
Window wells often start with sturdy and solid dirt sides but deteriorate with the elements. Rain, snow, ground drainage, and human and animal contact all contribute to the collapse of the window well sides. These sides might eventually collapse onto your window, as well.
What happens if you put dirt on a window?
Dirt banked up onto your window eventually ruins the window and even your home's structure. Dirt is a vehicle for termites and carpenter ants, both of which can burrow into your home's structure and destroy it. Water-laden dirt acts as a conduit to invite tree roots and water into your house.
Why are basement windows exposed?
Keeping basement windows exposed means that anything that is located outside and on-grade can potentially reach your window. Basement windows tend to get a real beating from water dripping off of roofs and from ground-flow rain, so they deteriorate quickly.
How wide is a window?
Another way a window size is noted is with an actual size of 29.5-inches wide and 35.5-inches high and a common size of 30-inches wide and 36-inches high.
How wide is a standard window?
The width of these windows includes the standard measurements of 24-inches wide, 28, 32, and 40-inches. Standard Window Height – The same window’s standard height includes 36-inches, 44, 52, 54, and 62-inches.
What Is A Standard Window Size?
When shopping for windows, it’s just as important to know the individual sizes of the windows on your home as the manufacturer’s standard window sizes.
How wide is a bathroom window?
A standard bathroom sliding window ranges from 36″ to 84″ wide and from 24″ to 60″ high. Many bathroom windows are associated with privacy meaning small sizes. However, depending on the size of the bathroom, location of the window, and type of window, bathroom window sizes vary.
How to check if a window is square?
Check that the windows are square by holding a tape measure on the inside of the window in the top right corner. Pull the tape measure down to the bottom left corner and write down the measurement.Reverse this and measure from the top left to the bottom right.
Why do you buy all the windows in one order?
Buying all the windows in one order provides seller discounts and the cost of labor to install the windows is lower when the whole house is done in one job. In order for the window installers to be at your home, bring the required equipment, and manage work schedules, one complete job costs less.
What is the size of a single hung window?
As an example, a standard single hung window that is 2-feet, 9-inches wide, and 3-feet, 4-inches high would include a size notation of “2934.” The window size notation includes four numbers; the first two digits represent the width and the second two digits represent the height.
How to measure a window for a well?
1. Measure the size of your window so you know how large of a well you need. Measure the height and width of your window with a tape measure so you know the dimensions. Add 8 inches (20 cm) to the height and 6 inches (15 cm) to the width measurement you took so the well can fit around the outside of the window .
What to do before digging a window well?
Contact your utility companies before you start digging to check for any power, gas, or water lines where you plan on putting the window well .
How to get gravel out of window?
Pour the gravel around the inside and outside of your window well, and pack it down with the bottom of your shovel. Spread the gravel evenly over the area so you have a 2–3 in (5.1–7.6 cm) layer at the bottom of the hole. Make sure the layer of gravel is lower than the window sill or else it could leak into your home.
What happens if a steel well is rusted?
If the steel wells are rusted out, it is most likely that the bolts holding it to the wall are rusted into the wall. The best solution is to raise the new well above the old bolt holes, unless the new window well has different hole locations.
How to get rid of a hole in a window?
Dig a hole that's slightly wider and deeper than the well. Start your hole next to your home's foundation about 6 inches (15 cm) from the side of your window. Shovel the dirt into a wheelbarrow or tarp so it's easy to transport away from the hole.
Why do you wear safety glasses when drilling into concrete?
Wear safety glasses whenever you drill into concrete to protect your eyes.
Why do you put gravel in a window well?
The gravel will help improve the window well's drainage so water doesn't pool up or flood into your basement.
How many square feet are needed for a window well?
The horizontal area of the window well needs to be a minimum of nine square feet, with a minimum horizontal projection and vertical width of 36 inches. Given the math involved, some homeowners may expect the dimensions to be the toughest part of installing a window well. However, especially with a professional on your side, achieving these required measurements is quite easy.
How far from the window well should a ladder be?
Additionally, your ladder cannot encroach upon more than six inches of your window well’s required dimensions. The interior width of the ladder must be 12 inches at minimum and project at least three inches from the interior wall of the window well.
Why do we need window wells?
Some homeowners might think window wells are simply a way to bring natural light and fresh air to their basements. While they are perfect for doing just that, window wells also help them meet the necessary building code requirements.
Do basement windows need emergency egress?
According to the IRC (International Residential Code), basements of a certain size must have an emergency egress, which window wells fit the bill for. To ensure you install the right egress for your basement, we’ll break down the residential window well code requirements you’ll need to abide by.
Can you use polycarbonate window well covers in basement?
At Window Well Supply, we can provide you with the right polycarbonate window well covers for your new emergency egress. Once your window well project is complete, you can experience enhanced comfort—and enhanced safety—while spending time in your basement.
How deep is a window well?
Usually, this hole is dug to a depth of around 1 foot beneath the bottom of the window sill . Before the window well itself is installed, it’s important to consider drainage.
What is a window well?
Let’s start with the basics. A window well is a U-shaped, ribbed metal or plastic product available in most home hardware stores. It’s designed to fit around basement windows, providing a space between the window and the surrounding earth to allow light into sub-grade structures. In some cases, window wells also provide an emergency point of egress. But, some homeowners aren’t aware that properly installed window wells also play an important role in draining excess rainwater away from your foundation. But, how do they work?
Why do window wells need to be dug out?
Insecure fastening: As your house settles, window wells can become misaligned with the foundation. This allows dirt to push in and clog the drainage system. If this happens, the window well may need to be dug out again, and a new well attached to the home. Window wells should always fit tightly against the basement wall.
How to prevent water damage from window wells?
They advise homeowners to ensure that the outer edges of their window wells sit tight and flush against the basement wall in order to prevent leaks. Click here to take a look at the guide in full.
How to tell if basement window is draining?
Water on the floor beneath the basement window: To determine whether drainage is the problem, run water from a hose into the well to see how quickly it drains away. The water level may rise above its base, but shouldn’t approach the bottom of the window. If water is draining as it should, there may be a completely different issue, such as a crack in the home’s foundation near the window, which is allowing water to enter.
Why do we need to maintain window wells?
The primary concern for maintaining window wells relates to debris (most often leaves and other organic matter) that falls into the well , clogging the drainage system. This can result in a back up of water, which exerts pressure against the glass.
Why do you put a plastic well in a window?
Once drainage has been taken care of , the plastic or steel window well is placed in the hole to prevent the earth from falling back in. The remaining space surrounding the window well is filled with dirt which should be compacted and graded so that water drains away from, not towards, the window.
How do I know what size egress window well to get?
Hi everyone! I am adding an egress window to a new basement.
Comments (8)
The bottom of the egress window opening can't exceed 44" from the finished floor.
How much does a window well cover cost?
Expect to pay from $100 to $300 or more per metal window well cover. Whether they’re metal or plastic, most high-quality modern window well covers will last for decades.
What are the considerations when choosing a window well cover?
Choosing a Window Well Cover. There are three main considerations when choosing a window well cover: shape, material (plastic or metal) and strength. Shape: Record the measurements of your window well before shopping for a cover, because it won’t do you much good if it doesn’t fit.
What Is a Window Well Cover?
Window wells are reinforced holes in the ground around below-ground or partially below-ground basement windows. Window wells are designed to hold surrounding earth away from the windows so they can let in light and be opened for ventilation.
What is a plastic window well cover made of?
Plastic covers are made of polyethylene and polycarbonate. If you choose a plastic window well cover, do your best to find one that’s polycarbonate. This material is much stronger than polyethylene and can handle extreme temperatures better. Metal: Usually flat, horizontal grates, metal window well covers are only meant to let in light ...
Do metal window well covers keep rain out?
Usually flat, horizontal grates, metal window well covers are only meant to let in light and prevent falls. Unless they’re combined with a plastic cover, they don’t keep precipitation out. So if you buy one, make sure your window well is outfitted with a drain, or is sheltered by enough roof overhang that water won’t be a problem.
Should you cover a window well?
Anyone with below-ground egress windows with window wells should protect them with window well covers. The potential danger to children and animals falling into a window well is serious, and the concerns of wild animals taking shelter in a window well aren’t unfounded.
How to drain a window well?
A common method to help with window well drainage is to place several inches of gravel at the bottom. This will allow the water to dissipate into the ground slowly to the weeping tile system , rather than sit in the soil next to the window. The rocks have an added benefit: they help filter debris that would work into and clog the weeping tile system. Even so, you should still clear out the debris that does accumulate in the rock a couple of times a year. If the window well is flooding, you could have a lot of gunk and debris blocking the downwards movement of water.
What Makes A Good Window Well?
A window well is a space dug out just outside a basement window, defined by plastic or ribbed metal in the shape of a “U”. It’s designed to provide some space between the window and the surrounding earth, allowing light into the below-ground portions of a building. Window wells play an important role in draining excess rainwater away from your foundation, but homeowners often do not know when a window well has been properly installed until it’s too late.
Why is a window well important?
The window well is an important part of the drainage system that protects your basement from moisture leakage. It’s especially important because windows are a common weak point for foundations, and the barrier around them can wear down over time. On many, typically older homes, these window wells are defined by a metal or plastic barrier around ...
What happens if a window well is flooded?
If the window well is flooding, you could have a lot of gunk and debris blocking the downwards movement of water. There isn’t really a minimum level of rocks in your window well, but the levels should be appropriate given the depth of it (and going deep is always better).
Can you put gravel on a metal window well?
This increases the risk of flooding and windows breakage. While it sounds too simple to be true, adding the right amount of gravel or crushed stone, along with a cover for your metal window well, can easily stop moisture from seeping into your foundation.
