The correct installation of architectural elements in your own home is not only a matter of aesthetics but also of safety. And first of all, this applies to windows. It doesn’t matter if you plan to replace them or are just building your cottage and inserting frames. You should definitely install them under all standards so that you don’t have any problems in the future. So, let’s deal with a fundamental question – what height should the windows in the house be, both by themselves and concerning the floor and ceiling.
Window height: determined by the ceiling and floor
The answer to the question about the placement of the windows must be found out from the pros. Experts insist that standard window openings should be about 3 feet (90 cm) from the floor and 18 inches (45 cm) from the ceiling. It is believed that this arrangement provides a comfortable view and, at the same time, turns openings into an effective emergency exit in an emergency. Of course, it is not necessary to follow these parameters literally millimeter by millimeter, but it is still reasonable to act within an approximate framework.
Departing from the dimensions indicated above, try not to overdo it. The point is that building codes strictly prohibit windows over 44 inches (110 cm) from the floor because, in this case, you will not be able to use them as an emergency exit. The minimum is 24 inches (60 cm) for second-floor windows, provided you apply additional safety measures in the nursery.
As for the location of the windows relative to the ceiling, then 18 inches, which we talked about above, is not a final figure, and you can slightly vary its aesthetic purposes. So, for example, on the side of the facade, you can install the windows so that their top is flush with the top of the front door. However, as a rule, the distance to the ceiling, in this case, is within the exact 18 inches, so you don’t risk too much.
Window sizes: we figure out the height
Today there are different types of windows, and any window system may become an object of sincere admiration for you. However, before ordering the windows of your choice for your home, be sure to compare their standard dimensions with the position of the windows concerning the floor and ceiling provided by building codes. If the design does not fit into the given parameter, finding a more appropriate solution for your house is better.
So let’s talk about the dimensions of the most popular types of windows.
Double hung window
These windows are classic, and we can see them in almost any home. Their height can be 36-72 inches (90-180 cm) and 24-48 inches (60-120 cm) wide and depends on the owners’ wishes and the proportions of the house. Over the past few years, you can see that the most willingly used double-leaf windows are the exact 48 inches (120 cm) high.
Picture Window
These window openings offer great views of the garden or city. The allowed height for them is 48-72 inches (120-180 cm), but the width is still crucial, which is 2-8 feet (60-240 cm), depending on the size of the house.
Bay window
Bay windows are one of the most beautiful architectural solutions for modern houses and a sure way to make your home attractive both inside and out. If you are using a bay window purely for decorative purposes, you can resort to the parameters for standard windows. If a dining room or seating area has been created here, then the windows may be slightly larger: the permissible height for them is 3-6.5 feet (90 cm-2 meters) with a width of 3.5-10.5 feet (1-3 meters).
Bow window
This style is pretty similar to bay windows but still has some peculiarities to know about. Bow windows usually come as a combination of 4 or 5 units mulled at 10 degrees arranged in a curved structure. They are non-operable and do not provide any ventilation but drastically add value in terms of aesthetics and character. Experts say that bow windows perfectly suit Victorian-style homes because of their sleek, slight curves. When it comes to the proper height for them, it goes the same as for bay windows – 3-6.5 feet (90 cm-2 meters) with a width of 3.5-10.5 feet (1-3 meters).
Casement window
These windows are narrow enough to be no more than 3 feet (1 meter) wide. On the one hand, such a structure has a loop, due to which it opens only in one direction. At the same time, their standard height is quite large and is 2.5-6.5 feet (from 76 cm to 2 meters).
Another option for such a window is a window with a canopy. Such designs are equipped with hinges at the top and open downward. For regular operation with standard floor and ceiling placement, parameters within 4 feet (120 cm) in width and 2-8 feet (60 cm to 2.5 meters) in height are used.
Sliding window
Such windows do not open laterally, but due to special guides to which the window sashes are attached. This design encourages making them wider rather than taller. So, with their standard width of 3-7 feet (1-2 meters), their height can be 2-5 feet (60-150 cm).
French window
Floor-to-ceiling windows, also called French doors, are a solution with incredible aesthetics and magnetism. In this case, there is no need to talk about compliance with the standard parameters of the height of the windows relative to the floor and ceiling; however, before installing them, you should consult with the builders to make sure that windows of this size meet all safety rules in the case of your home.
As you can see, the indicators of the correct height for the location of any window are by no means a secret, and you can safely adopt the parameters that we talked about above. If you doubt the correctness of your calculations, do not hesitate to contact the specialists who will certainly help you derive the ideal formula for the location of your window.
