When replacing your home’s windows, there are many factors to consider in order to ensure that the finished product will suit your needs and the style of your home. For example, you’ll find that there are several different brands, framing materials, price points, and energy efficiency ratings to choose from. Another key factor to take into consideration is the size of your new windows, which may affect their overall look, the amount of natural light that comes in, as well as safety, security, and privacy.
While some homeowners simply opt for new windows that will fit the existing openings, a replacement window project can be a great opportunity to choose windows of a different size or shape. Here are a few things to keep in mind when determining the optimal size for your new windows:
Building codes
Local building codes typically impose requirements on the size of certain windows in a home. While these may vary between different cities, counties, and states, the International Residential Code (IRC) offers several guidelines for egress windows, or those that can provide a means of exit in case of an emergency (as well as an entry point for rescue services). Egress windows are often required in bedrooms and in basements that have habitable space. According to the IRC, egress windows should meet the following size requirements:
- They must have at least 5.7 square feet of openable area (the amount of free and clear space that a person could crawl through when the window is open), or 5.0 square feet if the window is located at grade floor or below grade.
- The opening must be at least 20 inches wide and 24 inches high.
- The window sill must be located no more than 44 inches above the floor.
Egress windows should also be relatively easy to open from the inside, without requiring the use of any keys or tools. Due to their design, casement or sliding windows are popular choices for egress windows.
Architectural style
Another consideration that can help you choose the right size for your replacement windows is the overall style of your home. For instance, large, continuous windows without panes let in plenty of natural light and have a sleek appearance that is well-suited for contemporary-style homes—but they may look out of place in a home with a quainter or more traditional style. If you’re unsure which windows would work best with the style of your home, we recommend consulting with a professional designer, such as the team at the Window & Door Store. Whether you visit our design center in Scottsdale or set up a consultation with one of our designers, we will be happy to make recommendations for different sizes, styles, and materials of windows that will complement your home.
Room size and ceiling height
Windows tend to look best when they are proportionate to the size of the room and surrounding elements. Expansive windows may be overwhelming in a small room, while small windows will likely be dwarfed in a large room. In particular, pay attention to the height of your ceilings—in a room with very high ceilings, taller windows are usually recommended.
Head height
Head height refers to the distance between the top of the window and the ceiling. When choosing the size of your windows in relation to the height of the wall, be sure to leave enough space to install a curtain rod or other window coverings, if desired.
Privacy
When choosing between larger or smaller windows, you’ll also want to consider the extent to which your neighbors and passersby may be able to see into your home. While blinds and other window coverings can enhance privacy, they can also be expensive and cumbersome when needed for very large windows—so in those cases, smaller options may be preferable.
Modifications
If your new replacement windows will be a different size or shape than the existing windows, the project will require some structural modifications to the space surrounding the windows. In addition to our design consultants, the Window & Door Store features a team of professional window installation contractors who are adept at handling full-service modifications for window and door replacement projects. We are familiar with all local building codes in the areas we service, and will secure the necessary permits, take care of any architectural plans and structural engineering work that may be needed, and ensure that the project is completed to your satisfaction. Contact us today to request an estimate!