Whether you’re building a new home, renovating or replacing old windows, you may be wondering what size options are available for common home windows. Standard window sizes will depend on the window type.
To find the right window size for your home, let’s take a closer look at the most common sizes of windows for each of the most popular types of residential windows.
Common Window Dimensions
The standard dimensions of windows vary greatly depending on the window style. Single hung windows are the most common type found in U.S. homes, but many options are available today. Here are some of the most common window dimensions.
Single and Double Hung Standard Window Width and Height
Single hung windows are one of the most common types of windows in the U.S. Although double hung windows aren’t as common, they share the same standard dimensions because of their similar structure.
Some of the most common single and double hung window sizes are:
- 2’ W x 3’ H
- 2’ W x 4’4” H
- 2’8” W x 4’ H
- 2’8” W x 5’2” H
- 4’ W x 6’ H
Generally, dimensions for these windows range from:
- 24”- 48” maximum width
- 36”- 72” maximum height
Single and double hung windows are generally taller than they are wider.
Picture Window Average Window Size
Picture windows aren’t as popular as single or double hung windows because they aren’t operable. They’re best suited for areas where you want to let in natural light but don’t necessarily need to open the window for fresh air.
Because picture windows are fixed, they often come in much larger sizes. They may be installed above foyers, in living rooms, in loft areas or anywhere you want to truly maximize the amount of natural light in your home.
Some of the most common picture window sizes are:
- 3’ W x 2’ H
- 5’ W x 3’ H
- 6’ W x 4’ H
- 4’ W x 5’ H
- 8’ W x 5’2” H
These are the most common sizes, but generally, picture windows can range from:
- 24” – 96” wide
- 12” – 96” tall
Picture windows are often wider than they are tall, which allows for more natural light and a better view of the surrounding landscape.
Sliding Window Sizes
Unlike single or double hung windows, sliding windows slide open horizontally. Because of how they operate, sliding windows are almost always wider than they are tall. They may also be square.
You’ll often find sliding windows in basements, kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms. They’re easier to operate compared to single and double hung windows.
Some of the most sliding window sizes are:
- 3’ W x 2’ H
- 3’ W x 3’ H
- 5’ W x 3’ H
- 6’ W x 4’ H
- 7’ W X 4’ H
While these are the standard sizes for sliding windows, you’ll find that this window type ranges from:
- 36”- 84” wide
- 24” – 60” tall
Sliding windows may also have fixed windows on either side to allow in more natural light.
Bay Window Standard Sizes
Bay windows make a lovely addition to any home. They protrude outward and create more usable space and capture more light. They’re often the focal point of the room and can add value to your home.
Bay windows are a little bit different from other window types. They typically have a center picture window and operable windows on each side.
Standard sizes can vary, but generally, picture window widths are:
Side window widths can range from:
Sizes may vary depending on the projection of the window. With all three windows taken into consideration, bay window sizes can range from:
- 3’6” – 10’6” wide
- 3’ – 6’6” tall
Bay windows are often installed in living or sitting areas, but they can also be a great addition to bedrooms and home offices.
Casement Window Sizes
Casement windows are sometimes called crank windows. They are often used in tall, narrow areas. They swing outward, and are opened and closed using a lever, crank or handle. While similar in many ways to sliding windows, casement windows tend to be more energy-efficient due to the way they operate.
Because casement windows are great for ventilation, they are ideal choices for bathrooms and kitchens. They’re also great options for those with mobility issues or areas where access is more difficult to reach. In addition, there’s no need to lift or slide the window. Instead, just turn the crank or move the lever to allow fresh air into the space.
Casement windows can come in a wide range of sizes, but some of the most popular are:
- 1’7” W x 1’4” H
- 1’7” W x 2’5” H
- 2’3” W x 2’3” H
- 2’9” W x 2’9”H
- 3’5” W x 2’5” H
While these are the most common sizes, casement windows can range from:
- 1’2” – 2’11.5” wide
- 2’5.5” – 6’5.5” tall
Casement windows are a great option if you want to improve the ventilation in your home, and you can find some options that are similar in size to standard single or double hung windows.
Choosing the Right Window Size
Now that you have a better idea of standard window sizes, it’s time to choose the right one for your home.
The primary consideration will be your ceiling height. The International Residential Code (IRC) recommends that sills for operable windows be at least 24” from the floor.
If you want a window with a lower sill, inoperable windows will likely be your only option.
Here are a few other considerations:
- If you have very high ceilings, make sure that your windows are tall enough to look proportionate.
- Choose window dimensions that are in proportion to other elements in your home, considering both the interior and exterior.
- If you plan to hang curtains, make sure there’s enough space above the window to hang curtain rods.
- Consider privacy as well. Transom windows are a great option if you want to add natural light to your space without neighbors being able to see inside.
Windows come in a variety of sizes, including custom options, but these are some of the most common sizes for the most popular window styles. Consider what types of windows you want in your home and which sizes will be the best fit for your space.