While building plans may vary depending on the structure and architect, some rules are applied. For example, there are some restrictions around the sizes of windows in certain parts of the house when placing windows. So, what’s the standard window height from the floor?
Windows usually are around 36 inches high from the floor and roughly 18 inches from the ceiling. However, this is if you have an average-sized apartment with standard rooms and ceilings. Therefore, it’s essential to consider the height of your window’s frame when making your measurement.
While these criteria are an excellent guideline, it doesn’t make the best window location for all homes. In this article, you’ll learn the factors that influence the height of windows in the building. These factors include; building codes and how tall a standard window is.
What Exactly Are Building Codes?
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Building codes are regulations to ensure that everyone’s safety is prioritized throughout the construction or renovation. For instance, while most windows have a three-foot clearance from the ground, this isn’t a general standard. Certain parts of the home have window size restrictions.
According to building regulations, windows must be no more than 44 inches high. This ensures that windows may be used as a means of escape in an emergency. In addition, windows in high-rise buildings should be at least 24 inches from the ground to prevent a child from falling.
Although windows are typically set 18 inches from the ceiling, you should consider the room’s general design. You can adjust the peak of the front windows near entrances, for example. Also, leave room for the window header.
How Tall Is A Standard House Window?
There is no typical standard size that’s common to all windows. Even when comparing the same window style, there’s a range of measures deemed conventional. Some examples of standard sizes are:
Double-Hung Windows
Double-hung windows in conventional sizes range from 36 inches to 72 inches. This window measures 48 inches in height with a width between 24 and 48 inches. The double-hung windows can be found in smaller or more significant proportions, although these would be of non-standard sizes.
These are the most prevalent windows, usually seen in most modern residences. In addition, they utilize standard dimensions so that when you want to replace your windows, in most situations, you can purchase them off the shelf rather than having to have windows carefully measured and constructed to order.
Picture Windows
Picture windows are often used in larger living spaces, dining areas, and master bedrooms. These windows are created from one huge framed pane of glass, providing an unbroken ‘picture’ of the view. Picture windows usually are rather large to optimize the idea, although they can measure anything from 2-8 feet in either direction.
These windows typically come in two varieties: frameless and framed. Frameless picture windows are made up of several panes of glass set into a frame, whereas framed picture windows use a single sheet of glass. The latter type of window is more expensive but offers a better view due to its uninterrupted nature.
Bay Windows
A bay window is a small rectangular window located in the sidewall of a room. Bay windows extend out from the property, providing a nook in a suitable space for a reading chair. These windows are three separate windows placed together in an angular semi-circle form.
Bay windows are commonly placed in kitchens, bathrooms, and other open-plan living areas. Due to their small size, bay windows are generally only available in standard sizes. They will typically measure between 3-6 feet in height and four feet to ten feet in breadth in average dimensions.
Sliding Windows
Sliding windows are like sliding doors, open and close on a track. The sash of sliding windows slides horizontally across the fixed frame, similar to double-hung windows. Sliding windows are also called casement windows, after the casements on doors.
Because of their design, they are broader than they are tall. Standard width ranges from 3-7 feet. For slides, the standard height is from two feet to five feet.
The sliding window is ideal for those who don’t want to sacrifice the look of a traditional window while still enjoying the benefits of a contemporary window.
Casement Windows
Casement windows are similar to double-hung windows in their operation; however, they open by rotating horizontally instead of vertically. These windows function by a hinge on one side and open out on the other side. By design, they are taller than they are broad to minimize stress on the hinge and an imbalance of the window while it is open.
These windows are typical in smaller areas such as restrooms and cloakrooms. They are generally thin and will not measure more than three feet in width. However, they can be anywhere from 3-7 feet tall, depending on the specification.
Awning Window
In contrast to casement windows with hinges on the sides, awning windows have hinges at the top and open outsides from the bottom. Once more, the maximum width of these windows is only about four feet. However, 2-8 feet in height are possible, depending on who’s interested.
Awning windows are most common in commercial buildings where there is a need for extra space or ventilation. The awning window provides additional light and air circulation without compromising the aesthetics of the building. This window is often used in large office spaces and retail stores.
Considerations for Window Placement
Standard window heights aren’t enough when deciding where to place windows on your property. A window’s placement can impact the look of your home, as well as your heating bills. These are the primary considerations for window placement.
Ventilation
Windows provides excellent natural ventilation and can help reduce air conditioning in the summer. By allowing a breeze to enter your home and carry cool air with it, you will make it easier to cool down in the summer and more comfortable to be in.
Exposure
Knowing how your house faces and where the sun will be at various times of day and seasons can help you decide where to put your windows. It should be well lit if you work all day and spend the evenings in the kitchen and dining room. In this case, a south or west-facing window in your kitchen would be ideal.
Aesthetics
To avoid an odd exterior appearance, make sure any new windows line up with existing windows in other rooms. The proportion of windows should match the proportion of the house and any exterior doors. Tiny windows next to a grand entranceway can appear odd, as can a vast picture window next to a standard-sized doorway.
Privacy
Considering the room your new window is going in and what you use that room for will make a difference in the window’s size and placement. For example, you’ll want small windows high up in your bathroom so no one can see you bathing.
On the other hand, a large picture window is ideal for a dining or family room, where you can sit for long periods and enjoy the natural light or the view. Ultimately, comfort should be the goal, no matter the type of window you’re settling for. Ensure it’s what soothes and does not stress you.
