What Are Standard Window Sizes?

Standard window sizes make buying new or replacement windows easier and less expensive, especially if you are installing them. Standard-size windows are windows of set dimensions in the United States that fit into commonly found openings for homes, particularly for recently built homes. Double-hung windows are the most common type of window, with widths ranging from 24 to 48 inches and heights ranging from 36 to 72 inches. Read on for more standard window sizes.

Double-Hung or Single-Hung Windows

Double-hung windows are the most popular windows purchased for homes in the United States. "Double" refers to their two sashes—an upper and a lower—each moves up and down. Usually, the top sash remains in place, with the lower sash being opened more frequently to permit air into the home.

Single-hung windows are the same as double-hung windows in terms of measurements. The top sash is fixed with single-hung windows; only the lower one is mobile.

Double-Hung and Single-Hung Window Standard Sizes

Double-hung windows are always taller than they are wide. Double-hung window widths range from 24 inches to 48 inches. Heights of double-hung windows range from 36 inches to 72 inches.

Some common sizes for double-hung and single-hung windows:

• 2 feet wide by 3 feet high (2030)
• 2 feet wide by 4 feet, 4 inches tall (2044)
• 2 feet, 8 inches wide by 4 feet tall (2840)
• 2 feet, 8 inches wide by 5 feet, 2 inches high (2852)
• 4 feet wide by 6 feet high (4060)

Where to Install

Double-hung windows are a common, versatile window that works for many types of homes. They are best installed in common areas, bedrooms, or any room that can benefit from windows that can open.

Double-hung windows can be installed on the first or upper floors since they are easy to clean from inside the house. Single-hung windows work better on the ground level for easier access for cleaning or repairs.

Sliding Windows

Sliding or slider windows have sashes that slide horizontally. One sash might be fixed in place, with the other moveable, or both sashes might be able to move.

Sliding Window Standard Sizes

Sliding windows are square or always wider than they are tall. Slider windows range from 36 inches to 84 inches wide. Heights range from 24 inches to 60 inches. Common sizes are:

• 3 feet wide by 2 feet high (3020)
• 3 feet wide by 3 feet tall (3030)
• 5 feet wide by 3 feet tall (5030)
• 6 feet wide by 4 feet tall (6040)
• 7 feet wide by 4 feet high (7040)

Where to Install

Sliding windows work in nearly every room of the house: common areas, bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, dining areas, and basements.

Picture or Fixed Windows

Picture or fixed windows remain in place, with no sash or any part capable of sliding or opening.

Picture or Fixed Window Standard Sizes

Picture windows can be as narrow as 24 inches or as wide as 96 inches. The height of picture windows ranges from 12 inches to 96 inches. Popular sizes include:

• 3 feet wide by 2 feet high (3020)
• 5 feet wide by 3 feet tall (5030)
• 6 feet wide by 4 feet tall (6040)
• 4 feet wide by 5 feet tall (4050)
• 8 feet wide by 5 feet, 2 inches high (8052)

Where to Install

Picture windows are usually found in living rooms and in any area where you want to maximize natural light. Install picture windows where you know you won't need to open the window for fresh air or cleaning. Because there are no moving parts on picture windows, they can be found in larger sizes.

Casement Windows

Casement windows are moveable windows that open from the side like a door. Their sashes open with a crank. Casement windows might have just one sash or two or more sashes.

Casement Window Standard Sizes

Widths of casement windows commonly start at 17 inches and range up to 41 inches. Standard heights range from 16 inches up to 33 inches:

• 1-foot, 7 inches wide by 1-foot, 4 inches high (1714)
• 1-foot, 7 inches wide by 2 feet, 5 inches tall (1725)
• 2 feet, 3 inches wide by 2 feet, 3 inches high (2323)
• 2 feet, 9 inches wide by 2 feet, 9 inches tall (2929)
• 3 feet, 5 inches wide by 2 feet, 5 inches high (3525)

Where to Install

Because casement windows offer great ventilation, they work well in kitchens or bathrooms. They're also helpful for persons with mobility issues or windows with difficult access, such as behind a kitchen sink. To open or close them, unlatch and turn the crank.

Custom Window Sizes 

While standard window sizes work for most homes, there may be window frames that require windows that don't fall into these prescribed categories. Most older homes may not have standard window openings. You will likely need to order custom window sizes. Expect to pay about 50 percent more for a custom or special-sized window.

Some window manufacturers may offer a great size range for custom or non-standard-sized windows. For example, one major manufacturer offers standard casement windows that reach 2 feet, 9 inches high, but their custom casements can go as high as 8 feet tall. Also, within those minimum and maximum sizes are increments of sizes, up or down in 1/8-inch increments.