Standard Window Height from the Floor
Whether you’re building a house or adding a new window, you need to know what the standard window height is from the floor.
Window placement is critical in ensuring your design looks good from the interior and exterior of your house. While window heights can vary, there are general guidelines you can follow for proper placement.
What’s the Standard Window Height from the Floor?
A typical house window is 3 feet from the floor. Three feet is the traditional placement since it allows furniture to go under the window sill.
According to the International Residential Code, there must be at least one window (or exterior door) in every sleeping room to operate as an emergency escape. These emergency escapes, or egress windows, cannot be more than 44 inches from the floor.
Windows on second and third stories, or anywhere 6 feet above grade level, must be a minimum of 24 inches from the floor unless they don’t open more than 4 inches. If the window is less than 24 inches off the floor, it must have a physical barrier to prevent a child from falling out.
What’s Standard Window Height from the Ceiling?
The standard window height from the ceiling is 16-18 inches, allowing space for a header. The window header allows for a window frame while maintaining the wall’s structural integrity, keeping the roof from collapsing.
Bathroom Window Height
Bathroom window heights are different from living rooms and bedrooms since they need to provide privacy. Most bathroom windows are at or above eye level when standing.
Kitchen Window Height
The standard kitchen window height is about three feet from the ground, except for over-the-sink windows. Your over-the-kitchen sink window should be custom placed based on your kitchen layout.
Standard Window Size
There is no standard window size. Even the most common window style – double-hung- has a typical size range of 24 to 48 inches in width and 36 to 72 inches tall.
Use standard window heights from the floor and ceiling as a guideline, not a rule. If you need help determining what size windows to get and where to place them, consult an experienced designer for advice.