Saturday, December 20, 2008

Measure For Interior Storm Windows

For the purpose of contrast, I am showing
the storm in unfinished wood in this picture
Standard would be brown or white aluminum


Measuring for your new insulating storm windows is not as difficult as you might think. There are two basic concepts you have to understand:













The new window sits on top of the sill and between the jambs. If you're not familiar with the terminology look at the pictures. Most people know that the sill is the flat surface at the bottom of the window, the "jamb" causes a bit more confusion. It is simply the "depth" of the wall. It can vary greatly depending on the thickness of your exterior walls and how your existing windows are installed.












Proper placement of tape for width
Measurement

































You will need at least 3/4" of flat surface all the way around (The inside of the jamb). Blinds may interfere, depending on their placement. If they are mounted to the face of the trim (or wall) they are generally not a problem. If they are recessed in the jamb, you just need to be sure you still have 3/4" or more in front of them for the new window panel. If they are in the way, you will either move them or put them away for winter months. If you refer to my previous entry in this blog "The Comfort of Interior Storm Windows" you will see the last picture showing a blind recessed about 2 1/2" into the jamb (you only need 3/4").


Now it's just a matter of getting a good measurement. RELAX, it's not that difficult. All you need to do is accurately read the tape the best you can. You should familiarize yourself with getting to the 1/8". It's more important for you to be able to read what you believe is right, than to actually get the tape to the exact 1/32 of the opening. I don't even want that.






*When measuring check your measurement in different places and take the smallest one, if there is one.



For example when you measure the height, do it up the left side, Up the right side and in the middle. If there is a difference use the smallest one.








The truth is I make a small deduction on the frame, but then add weatherstripping all around. The squish of the weatherstrip will take care of minor discrepancies. DON'T take the deduction yourself - give me the best you can, RELAX!


Measurements are always given width x height. So if you simply state 30 1/2" x 54 1/8" that is telling me that your inside-the-jamb measurement (where the new unit will go) is 30 1/2 inches wide by 54 1/8 tall. I proceed to take a tiny deduction to make room for the weatherstripping.


Easy Right?


Make sure to make note to yourself which measurement is for which window. I don't care if it's the living room or the bedroom south facing wall - but you will when they arrive. I will label each size only.


When asking me for a quote I need the number of units of each size and your delivery address (or at least your zip code). Make sure I have a regular e-mail address for you as well.


These units can be produced and shipped in a week!

Draftyoldwindow@gmail.com

Fax (207) 443-1421




























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