One way to survey for a UPVC window is to remember that all windows and doors are measured and viewed from outside the house. It can take only a few minutes to measure for your new UPVC window however, there are a few critical points to remember. If there are any concerns or questions with the final make size, email across the measurements and South Coast Windows will calculate the make sizes for you.
There is a survey service, which sees us take the responsibility of the sizes. The cost of this survey is dependent on a number of factors and the distance to your home.
Critical Measuring Points
- Measure brick to brick (or render to render) outside width and height. Check for any obstructions such as overhanging soffits and fascias to make sure that they will not prevent any window openings. Measure the height width in three places and select the smallest dimensions. You will need to make your sizes 10mm less than the smallest size.
- Check the position of the existing window in aperture. For example; is the current position fitted to the outer back or cavity wall or is it fitted into the cavity behind the outer brick? Are there any other designs?
- Are the existing windows conventional casement style windows, sash box windows, crittall or another style as measuring can be different for each situation?
- Is there a projecting sill at all that will need to be considered?
- Make sure you cross check your final measurements. Go inside the building and measure the width of the opening, plaster to plaster, and the height of the opening, plaster to plaster. Also, measure the head to the underside of the internal window shelf. NOTE: The difference in measurement sizes from the outside will dictate if extra adjustments or frame extension pieces are needed. This is important as the windows from South Coast Windows are internally beaded and therefore you must ensure there is sufficient clearance, especially with doors.
- Check the height of the glass from the floor inside and /or outside as this will dictate whether safety glass is required.
- If a window is attached to a door then safety glass will be required.
- What is the room used for? A habitable room like a bedroom will need the use of egress (fire escape) hinges.
- Ensure measurements are in mm as this is the metric that is used in all the manufacturing processes. If you need to convert inches into mm use each inch = 25.4mm. (24 inches = 24 x 25.4 = 610mm).
- Always double check, and even check again, your measurements. The old carpenter’s adage of “measure twice, cut once” is definitely applicable here.
As with all projects, there are some exceptions to the above. Contact us on 0800 389 5957 and we can advise.
A general rule of thumb for a price guide ONLY: Measure the inside plaster lines (point 5.) add 50mm to width and to height and price the window on those sizes and you will not be far out.
DO NOT, HOWEVER, use these measurements for manufacturer sizes. If you require the frames to be professionally measured call us or email and we will endeavor to carry out the manufacturing survey for you.
By following the above instructions, you can obtain accurate sizes in most cases. Please feel free to contact us with any queries as we are always happy to help.
