Windows may not be the biggest parts of your home, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t just get whatever windows you’d think would look good. Picking the right window size is essential to getting a lot of value out of them, so here are a few tips to help you pick the right window dimensions for your next project.

The Sill Height

According to regulations, operable windows should have sills that are at least 24 inches above the floor. This means you can narrow down your options to windows that can fit when installed at that height. However, it’s possible to go bigger (and go below this threshold) if you’re installing a fixed window.

The Head Height

The head height does not have an exact limit, so technically you can have windows that can reach all the way up to the ceiling. However, experts suggest leaving enough space between the ceiling and the top edge of the window frame so there will be enough space for window treatments.

Orientation

A window’s size must also match the direction it is facing. Windows facing the south have to be bigger than north-facing windows. This is because the sun is oriented towards the south for the most part of the year, and the larger south-facing windows will get a lot of sunlight and heat. During summer, the sun is directly overhead so the large windows are easily shaded.

Insulation

Only a few homeowners know this, but a window size must also work well with the home’s heat efficiency. Homes made of thinner materials tend to heat up easily so they don’t work so well with large windows that let plenty of sunlight inside. Homes with thick siding and better insulation can afford to have bigger windows since they do a better job at keeping indoor temperatures at a more consistent level.

Learn more about picking the right windows for your home with help from our team. Exterior Building Solutions is the leading home exterior contractor in St. Louis and Chesterfield, MO. You can call us at (240) 491-5600 or fill out this contact form to request a quote.