Code, site conditions & safe access.

Identify the governing requirements

Record the project location, permit requirements and applicable local code review. Residential replacement provisions can vary by adopted code edition, amendments, building type and scope. Do not assume a replacement is exempt from every current requirement or that one national checklist establishes approval.

Document required product performance, energy characteristics, impact/wind provisions, glazing requirements and any historic or association restrictions that affect the selected unit. Refer project-specific determinations to the authority or qualified professional responsible for them.

Check the actual operable clear opening

An emergency escape and rescue opening is assessed using the clear opening provided by the operating window, not its rough opening, outside frame dimensions or visible glass area. The operating style, sash travel, hardware and frame profile can change that clear opening.

Record the room use, existing and proposed operation, finished-floor relationship, exterior well or obstruction, and the manufacturer’s net-clear-opening data for the exact size. Verify the local replacement-window provisions and any applicable exception before relying on them.

Do not assume a new double-hung and a casement provide the same escape opening because both frames are 32 × 54. Likewise, a thicker insert can reduce clear opening without changing the nominal family.

Measure the surroundings for glazing review

Record nearby doors, floors, stairs, landings, tubs, showers and other locations that may trigger safety-glazing requirements. Keep dimensions to the relevant adjacent surfaces and a context photograph so the code review is based on the actual condition.

Safety glazing, impact resistance, energy performance and obscurity are different product attributes. “Tempered” does not automatically mean impact-rated, and “obscure” does not automatically mean safety glazing. Specify the required combination through the supplier.

Plan investigation in older painted assemblies

Under EPA’s RRP program, covered renovation work disturbing paint in pre-1978 housing and child-occupied facilities requires the applicable firm/renovator certification and lead-safe practices. Authorized state programs may govern locally. Establish applicability before disturbing painted components.

EPA explicitly excludes window replacement from the minor-repair-and-maintenance exception, even when a window is smaller than six square feet. A small visible disturbance is not a blanket exemption for replacement work.

Do not let the measure visit become uncontrolled demolition. Plan any paint-disturbing investigation with the responsible qualified personnel, containment and restoration appropriate to the job.

Get the measurement from a safe position

Plan safe access for upper-story windows, wells, roofs, obstacles and exterior measurements. Use the appropriate ladder, lift, platform and fall-protection approach under the applicable rules. Do not lean beyond a safe position just to avoid returning with access equipment.

Record glass condition, unit weight/handling needs, occupants, pets, landscaping, overhead hazards and delivery constraints. A proposed frame that cannot be safely transported and positioned requires a different plan before release.