I'm finally getting around to replacing the old drafty windows in my house, and I'm a bit stuck on how to measure them. Some folks say measure from inside the window frame itself, while others swear by measuring from the outside edge of the trim. Um, I'm leaning toward measuring inside the frame because it seems more precise, but then again, maybe outside trim gives more wiggle room? Anyone have experience with either method and can share why one worked better for you?
Measuring inside the frame is definitely the way to go if you're after precision and a snug fit. I replaced mine last summer, and measuring from the inside gave me exact dimensions, so the new windows slid right in without any fuss. Measuring from the outside trim can leave you with gaps or force you into extra trimming work later on. Are you planning to install them yourself or hiring someone? That might influence your decision too...
Measuring from the inside definitely makes sense for precision, but honestly, it depends a bit on your house and what you're comfortable with. When I replaced mine a couple years back, I actually measured from the outside trim because my frames were pretty uneven inside (old house problems...). It did mean a bit more trimming and caulking afterward, but it also gave me some wiggle room to adjust things as I went along. If your frames aren't perfectly square or level, measuring from the outside can sometimes help you hide those imperfections better.
Also, if you're hiring someone, they might have their own preference or method they're used to. Might be worth checking with them first before you commit to one way or the other. Either way, it's not a huge deal—just depends on your specific situation and how much finishing work you're willing to tackle afterward.
That's an interesting point about measuring from the outside trim—I hadn't really thought about it that way before. My frames are definitely not perfect either, so now I'm wondering if going from the outside might actually save me some headaches later on. Did you find it tricky to get the caulking looking neat afterward, or was it pretty manageable? I'm not exactly a pro at finishing work, but I don't mind giving it a shot if it's forgiving enough.
Also, good call about checking with whoever's installing them. I hadn't considered they might have their own preferred method. Maybe I'll see what they say first before I commit to measuring anything myself. Anyway, thanks for sharing your experience—it helps to hear how others have tackled this!