What's the correct way to measure for a new window vinyl window in those old wood frames?

Question

Should the measure be to the stud? The window we're taking out is not to the stud. There is about about and inch all the way around between the old wood window and the stud. Is this supposed to be that way? Seems to me that they originally did this wrong. Should there be a gap that big?

So how should we measure? From the exact size of the old window, or the the studs on the sides?

Answer 1

Most are jamb to jamb, and top jamb to highest point of sill.

Answer 2

What you are describing is the old way they installed windows. The space between the window frame and the stud was for the counter weights so the window would stay up when it was opened.

The guy above is correct. Measure the vertical and the horizontal from stud to stud in three places. Top, middle and bottom, and then left right and center. Use the smallest measurements. You can always shim the window where it is a little small. If you don't use the smallest measurements the window won't fit. Be advised that most places only carry popular sizes, so be sure you can get the window before you start ripping out the old one.

Example Top is 29" middle is 28 1/2 " and bottom is 27" from side to side.

    Buy a window that will fit in a 27" width.

Answer 3

Take vertical and horizontal measurements of the window opening (not the exiting frame) in at least three places.

Answer 4

You're not going to get a good answer here.  The correct way to measure for any given replacement window is how the manufactuerer of that windows tell you to

However FYI, what you are describing is typical.  Window openings are framed with studs, then the window is set in the opening and shims are placed to fill the gaps, these are the gaps you see.  Problem with replacement windows is they typaically fit inside the window casing of the old window so those gaps remain.  You need to remove the molding (which you obviously did) and fill those gaps with insulation and replace the milding.  This is why for old houses replaement windows are not as good an option as replacing the windows with new complete windows