A step-by-step guide to measuring your windows.

How to be a laser measure master.

Hand holding laser measurement tool.

Review Your Tools

  1. Laser

  2. Product Type Samples

  3. Compression Tube Color Samples

  4. Adjustable Diagonal Extension Tool

  5. Paper Measurement Form

*See appendix for all uses of this tool & more measurement tips & terms.

Diagram of the Laser Measurement Kit.

Other Tools to use: Online Portal - Record your measurements as you go on the Measure Form provided. Our online portal, Measure by Indow®, is where you record your final measurements. You should have received an access link via email. If you can’t find it, go to Measure Support

Measurement Phone Support - We have in-house measuring experts dedicated to helping you measure your windows and resolving any issues you may run into. If you need assistance, we’re here to help: 503.284.2260

NOTE: Keep the USPS shipping box and return label the Laser Measuring Kit came with. You’ll need them to mail the kit back to Indow! Return all items so you’re not charged for them.

How To Use A Laser Measure

How to Measure Your Windows with Our Laser Tool

Prepare to Measure

Remove any furniture around the windows for easy access and a more accurate measurement. If you have blinds that have to be removed, now is a good time.

Review the paper Measure Form included in the kit. Use this to list each window you measure. We suggest starting with the leftmost window and moving right.

Record:

  • Room and Location (as you want them to appear on the insert label)
  • Product Type (Standard Grade, Acoustic Grade, Sleep Panels, etc.)
  • Tubing Color

If you were sent mullion* instructions by your Fit Specialist, refer to the Mullion Guide handout to install the L brackets before measuring.

NOTE: Measuring a lot of windows? Start with 3 or 4, then enter measurements into the Measure by Indow portal to make sure they are accepted before continuing. *See appendix for more.

Diagram shows a window frame with two Frame Steps.

Frame Step & Depth

Frame step is the flat surface within your window frame and where your insert will be installed. Frame depth* is how deep your frame step is. If you think of the window frame width as left to right, frame depth is front to back. Place your laser tool on your desired frame step and point straight across. Record the Frame Depth on your Measure Form. You do not need to include the Frame Step - this is for your reference only. *See appendix for full explanation of frame depth and fraction chart

Assessing Each Window

Label Windows

Label the window you’re measuring on the Measure Form so you can identify it when you enter measurements into the Measure by Indow portal. We use this information to create labels for your inserts so you know which insert goes where.

Note: Please use a unique combination of room and location names for each window.

Measure Twice!

“Measure twice, cut once” applies here too! As we custom cut each insert to match your windows, we want to ensure a snug fit within your frames. For each window, we recommend measuring twice and filling out two rows of your Measure Form. If the measurements match or are within 1/16" of each other, scratch out a row and proceed. If the measurements differ, remeasure.

Identify Frame Step

Some windows have more than one frame step, while other windows have just a single, flat surface. This example shows two frame steps, (1) in blue and (2) in yellow. For each window, you will be taking a set of 6 measurements which must be taken on the same frame step. A compatible frame step must have:

  • 5/8" of flat space
  • At least 1/2" of space from window glass
  • No obstructions such as blinds, shutters, shades, handles, cranks, or locks
  • 1 1/4" behind the blinds at the top of the frame, if installing with blinds present

Use a measuring tape to check for the above minimums.

Note: For noise reduction, the better frame step is at least 1”- 4” away from the window glass. See appendix or watch this video for more help.

Diagram shows which of two Frame Steps to use.
Diagram shows the incorrect and correct way to position the laser measurement tool in a window frame. Image of a Laser Measurement Tool.

How to Use the Laser Tool

Take out the laser. (Item 1 in the kit.) You only need to use the red ON button and the CLEAR/OFF button.

  1. Place the base of the Laser Measure Tool (side opposite laser beam) on the frame step of the side you are measuring.

  2. Press the red ON button, identified by the jewel, to turn on the laser. Keep your eye on the laser beam to make sure it doesn’t move off the frame step where the insert will be installed. The raised jewel will help you identify the ON button while staying focused on the laser beam.

  3. Press the red ON button again to take your first measurement. Your measurement will appear on the screen displayed in inches and fractions. If your laser does not automatically display inches and fractions, see appendix Laser Measure Tool Mode before measuring.

  4. Press the red ON button again to reactivate the laser beam.

  5. Press the red ON button a fourth time to take a second measurement, which will appear on the laser’s screen in larger text below the first measurement. If the numbers match, record your measurement. If the measurements are within 1/16" of each other, that’s okay too - just use the larger of the two measurements. If they are more than 1/16" apart, keep measuring until they are within 1/16th of an inch of each other*.

Record measurements exactly as they are shown on the laser onto the Measure Form, e.g.: 55 9/32. Write the whole number and the fraction with no additional symbols.

Need Help?

Check out our "Your Window With A Laser Tool" video guide or schedule a Measure Support call.

*See appendix for full explanation of frame depth and fraction chart.

Measuring Top & Bottom Widths

Diagram shows a person measuring the 'A' Width Top.

A Width Top

Locate the frame step the inserts will be installed on. Place the base of the laser tool against the frame (top left) where the insert is going to be installed, and point the laser beam straight across the window frame (top right). It’s often best for the laser to touch the top and left side of the window, but the tool can face out or down as long as it lies flat against the frame and the laser dot falls where the insert will be installed. Take your measurements.

Note: The laser captures its measurements from the base of the unit, so it’s critical the base sits flat against the frame to get accurate height and width measurements.

Write the measurement on your Measure Form under the column ‘A Width Top’. Record the fractional measurements exactly as your laser displays them. Measure twice! Until you have at least two measurements within 1/16" of each other.

Diagram shows a person measuring the 'B' Width Bottom.

B Width Bottom

Use the same frame step as before. Press the base of the laser flat against the bottom left side of your window frame with the laser’s beam straight across as seen in the diagram. Record your measurements on ‘B Width Bottom’ on the Measure Form. Measure twice! Until you have at least two measurements within 1/16" of each other.

Tip: Not seeing fractions? See appendix Laser Measure Tool Mode. We recommend you completely measure each window twice and record on two rows on the form. If the rows match or each measurement is within 1/16", scratch one row out.

Diagram shows a person measuring the 'C' Height Left and 'D' Height Right.

C Height Left

Using the same frame step as before, place the laser in the bottom left of the window frame pointed straight up as seen in the diagram to measure the height of the frame’s left side. Measure twice! Write these measurements on your Measure Form under ‘C Height Left’.

D Height Right

Now do the same height measurement from the bottom right of the window frame, inputting your measurements into ‘D Height Right’ on the Measure Form.

Tip: Textured surface or a sloped frame causing issues? Mark where the insert will be installed with tape to have a target for the laser.

Measuring Diagonals

Take out the Adjustable Diagonal Extension Tool (item 6 in the kit). This stabilizes the Laser Measure Tool against the window frame while you take the diagonal measurements. These diagonal measurements are critical for a snug fit of your Indow inserts.

Diagram shows how to attach the Laser Measurement Tool to the Adjustable Diagonal Extension Tool.

Think of measuring the diagonals like an arcade game; timing and patience will help you win. Extend the stabilizing leg of the Adjustable Diagonal Extension Tool outward and adjust the tension on the bolt to stabilize the leg. Magnetically connect the laser to the face of the tool so the magnets snap together.

Diagram shows how the Adjustable Diagonal Extension Tool can be used.

Check for any paint buildup, textured sheetrock, corner gaps, or rounded-off areas in the joints of your frame step. If these are present, take more measurements and look for the longest distance keeping curves and gaps in the frame in mind.

E Diagonal Left

Place the tail of the extension tool in the bottom left joint of the frame step. Adjust the tool’s stabilizing leg along the frame until the laser beam rests in the opposite upper right joint of the frame as seen in the diagram. Keep an eye on the beam to ensure it doesn’t move off the frame step while your other hand is ready to press the red ON button. When the laser dot is in the joint, and equally on the top and side of the frame, take your measurements. Measure twice! Until you have at least two measurements within 1/16" of each other. Write the measurement under ‘E Diagonal Left’ on the form.

Note: The joint is where the two sides of the window frame meet. When you measure from joint to opposing joint, still measure to and from the frame step where your insert will be installed.

Note: Record the fractional measurements exactly as they appear on the laser’s display. The window opening is larger than the laser shows, however the length of the extension tail is automatically added in the Measure by Indow portal.

F Diagonal Right

Repeat instructions for E Diagonal Left, but with the laser and extension tool in the bottom right joint of the window frame pointed toward the top left joint. Measure the diagonal of the right side of the frame and write under ‘F Diagonal Right’ on the Measure Form.

Tip: Be careful! The laser dot moves easily. Want some additional tips? See appendix Diagonal Tool Tips.

Diagram shows a person measuring the 'E' Diagonal Left.

E Diagonal Left

Diagram shows a person measuring the '
			
			F' Diagonal Left.

F Diagonal Right

Final Window Check

Any number of reasons can cause a frame to curve or bow over time. There are convex (outward) bows and concave (inward) bows. Checking for bows ensures your inserts will fit snugly within the frames.

Check for Bows

Convex: Stretch a tape measure from corner to corner on one side. Pull it tight to see if there’s a point where the tape isn’t touching the frame (see convex diagram). If you see a gap, the frame has an outward convex bow. Check all four sides of each window.

Concave: Stretch the tape measure across the face of the frame to see if any points of the frame dip toward the window's interior or pass over the tape (see concave diagram).

Note: You can use string, a level, or other straightedge tool if you’d prefer.

Diagram shows a window with a Convex bowed frame.

This window has no bow.

Diagram shows a window with a Convex bowed frame.

This window has an outward or convex bowed frame.

Diagram shows a window with a Concave bowed frame.

This window has an inward or concave bowed frame.

If you detect a gap thicker than a pencil tip, follow the directions below. If you don’t detect any bows, continue to Submit Measurements Online.

To measure the height of an inward or outward bow in a frame, tape both ends of the tape measure to the corners so the tape is taut, and use a ruler to measure the height of the bow where the gap is largest. Alternatively, someone can help measure the bow height while you hold the tape measure taut.

If the frame is bowed more than ⅛" (the thickness of a pencil tip), record which side of the frame is bowed – the direction (inward or outward) and the bow height – in the “Notes” section of the Measure Form. Be sure to include where on the frame it’s highest and the start and stop location of the bow in inches. If the bow is on the bottom or top, provide the distance from the left where the gap is largest.

Example: The frame has a 9/32" high inward gap on the left side, three inches from the bottom left hand corner of the sill.

Diagram shows a window with a quarter inch gap at the top of the window frame.

Submit Measurements Online

It’s time to enter your measurements into the Measure by Indow portal!

Can't find the link to access your Measure By Indow portal? Contact Measure Support.

Check your email for your Measure by Indow link to access the portal, subject line includes “Measure by Indow”.

Click ADD WINDOW and add the measurements for your windows, one at a time. Follow along your Measure Form, selecting the larger measurement of the two within 1/16" of each other, as you enter:

  • Product Type
  • Tubing Color
  • Frame Step

Shape: Select Rectangle. Only select Custom if working with a special shape such as an arch or octagon. For custom-shaped windows, please refer to the Custom Order Form.

Enter your measurements as they appear on your Measure Form. Type the whole number in the space provided. Type the top number of the fraction* in the field provided. Use the drop down to select the bottom part of the fraction. Do not enter any additional symbols or spaces. See example:

Sample image of Indow windows online Measurement Form.

Tip: If you are entering a whole number, the fraction section will automatically show “0/2”. There is no need to edit.

Notes section: If you found bows, add description here. Note which side is bowed; the direction (inward/concave or outward/convex) as well as the height of the bow.

Review your information before you submit for review. You can always come back to add more windows if you want to start with a few now.

Watch out for typos! Having trouble resolving a red or yellow issue? Select the “schedule a support call” option.

Everything entered and all errors resolved? You’re now ready to submit your order.

Don’t send your Laser Measuring Kit back until your order has been reviewed and confirmed by our experts and payment has been submitted.

Once we receive your measurements, our team will run further checks. When the assessment is complete and any issues have been resolved, we’ll send you a final invoice. You’ll have a chance to review your order before making the final payment.

Important Note: If you feel any items in your order need attention, contact your Fit Specialist before you proceed. Remember, our Snug Fit Guarantee applies to measurements submitted through Measure by Indow as long as certain conditions are met, such as using Indow measurement tools, resolving all errors, and reporting all irregularities (i.e.: bows) in your Measure By Indow portal. For a full list, visit: here.

Dave is happy your measurement has been accepted.

Nice Work! Measurement Accepted

Tip: Can’t find your link to access Measure by Indow?
Go to: measure support

Return the Laser Measuring Kit

Once an Indow representative has approved your submitted measurements, you’ll get an email from us so you can confirm your order. Then it’s time to return the kit. Apply the included return shipping label over the existing shipping label and mail the kit back to us in the USPS box in which it arrived.

Remember we can’t ship your order until we receive the kit. Diagram of the USPS return label and return box for the Laser Measuring Kit. Expect an email from us soon on next steps!

Appendix

Tips For Using the Laser Tool

  • Diagonal Tool Tips

    See our Diagonal Guide.

    • Hold the bottom to create resistance - the legs don’t have rubber so they can be adjusted easily.

    • Use two hands on the tool to keep it steady when pressing the button.

    • Place a book in front of the stabilizing (black) leg to keep it steady and prevent sliding.

    • Hold your finger on the red measuring button and keep an eye on the laser dot.

    • Enter dimensions displayed on the laser screen. Our system accounts for the length of the extension tail.

    • Do not tilt the laser towards you or the glass. It should be measuring where the insert will be installed.

  • Sloped Frame Tips

    If the frame slopes inward toward the glass or outward away from the glass, it can pose installation issues. Use these tips or ask your Fit Specialist if you have compatibility questions.

    Your frame cannot have a slope angle that exceeds 15°, but if any slope is present, you should follow these steps. You also need a frame depth of at least ¾".

    • Check for slope angle with level, default iPhone measure app, or Android measure app (search for “angle meter”).

    • Measure in from the front of your frame to where you want to install your insert on all four joints and mark with tape.

    • Use these markings when measuring: for where to place laser tool and where to aim laser dot.

    • If your frame depth is ¾" - 1", record the location and degree of the slope in the notes field in Measure by Indow when placing your order.

Get to Know Your Window

Diagram shows a window and a list of window terms.

Window Terms

  • Joint

    Where two sides or inside edges of the window frame meet. You might think of these as the corners of the window, but they are not 3D because they do not include the glass pane as a side.

  • Muntin

    See our: Mullion Guide.

    A bar of wood or metal separating and supporting panes of glass in window.

  • Sash

    Part of the window that holds the panes. It fits inside the window frame and moves inside of it (when the sash is operable). Sashes vary depending on the type of window. For example, sometimes instead of sliding up along the frame, they tilt in or out.

  • Mullion

    A metal H-shaped bar stationed in the window frame to divide a window into smaller units either vertically or horizontally. Window inserts require mullions for support when placed in extremely large window frames (using two window inserts to cover one opening). View our Mullion Guide here or connect with your Fit Specialist if you believe you need to add Mullions to your order.

Window Hardware

Some windows, especially those with a sash, will have hardware which may protrude into one of the frame steps.

Diagram shows a window and a list of window hardware.

Operable Window

An operable window is one that can be opened. Some, usually older, windows have been sealed shut.

Measurement Map

Diagram shows a Measurement Map.

Measurement Terms

  • Frame Step

    The flat surfaces within a window frame. This is what the compression tubing of your window insert will press against. Some windows have just one frame step, some have more. Some frame steps are interrupted by a lower sash or hardware.

    A compatible frame step has to be free of any obstructions fully exposed and continuous to have an Indow insert installed. It must also have a frame depth of at least 5/8". Check out our Frame Step video for more information.

  • Frame Depth

    How deep your frame step is, measured from front to back. You can measure it with a tape measure or ruler. You just need an approximation for your order:

    Diagram shows two Frame Steps and Frame Depth of the second Frame Step.

Note: If you are installing your insert where blinds are present, you will need a frame depth of at least 1 1/4" behind the blinds on the top of your window frame.

Laser Measure Tool Mode

There are multiple modes our laser tool can be in. It should arrive in: “Inches and Fractions” mode as shown on page 5.

If the laser is not in the correct mode: turn the laser on, hold the grey second button down for 2 seconds. It should beep. Repeat this until you see “in” near the bottom left corner as shown in the diagram on page 5.

Diagram shows the Laser Measurement Tool in inches and feet mode. Diagram shows the Laser Measurement Tool in inches only mode.

Fraction Chart

  • 132


    0.03125

  • 116


    0.0625

  • 332


    0.09375

  • 18


    0.125

  • 532


    0.15625

  • 316


    0.1875

  • 732


    0.21875

  • 14


    0.250

  • 932


    0.28125

  • 516


    0.3125

  • 1132


    0.34375

  • 38


    0.375

  • 1332


    0.40625

  • 716


    0.4375

  • 1532


    0.46875

  • 12


    0.500

  • 1732


    0.53125

  • 916


    0.5625

  • 1932


    0.59375

  • 58


    0.625

  • 2132


    0.65625

  • 1116


    0.6875

  • 2332


    0.71875

  • 34


    0.750

  • 2532


    0.78125

  • 1316


    0.8125

  • 2732


    0.84375

  • 78


    0.875

  • 2932


    0.90625

  • 1516


    0.9375

  • 3132


    0.96875

  • 1


    1.000

Trusted Since 2010

Indow has insulated more than 23,000 buildings - helping reduce carbon emissions by nearly 200,000 tons - and creating comfort across the US & Canada!

Reviews

Excellent

4.49 Average Rating

1530 Reviews

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    I bought these bedroom inserts primarily for sound reduction. My house is about a mile from a busy train track and several miles from an interstate highway with an exit close that has trucks braking. These inserts completely eliminated the interstate noise and the train rolling noise, and dropped the train whistle noise to very faint. No more waking up at night and counting trains. I measured carefully and the fit was perfect, and with the blinds open I can't even tell they are there. For info my jam depth allowed approximately 3" gap from the top window pane and 2-1/2" from the bottom and still allowed the use of an inside mounted 1" blind. Using the new compression blinds that install with no brackets allowed that much gap and maximizing the gap distance is important for sound reduction. I also installed jam stops specifically for the Indow insert to get it to the right place.

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Our Indowindow inserts arrived thoughtfully packed and quickly shipped. They were easy to install and fit after using the pre-supplied Lazer measurements tool from indow. The fit was perfect and we immediately noticed a huge change in noise levels for the better. I added some brightly colored cord to the d rings incase of fire removal and escape through the window is needed. We are very satisfied with our purchase and we highly recommend Indowindow inserts for noise issues.

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    We moved into a home right next to a busy highway. The window inserts have allowed us to sleep without wearing earplugs. The difference is dramatic. Please note that the inserts don't reduce noise to 0; this is especially evident with large rock hauling trucks. Even though we still hear noise from these (VERY) loud sources, Indow Window inserts have been able to dramatically reduce the noise to the point of allowing us a normal existence in our home. Thanks Indow!

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    These windows are great! They have improved the quality of our home with reduced thermal loss and reduced noise level! The temperature today is 93° outside, our split system is set at 73° and the inside house temperature is 74°! Before the install of these windows the inside temperature with these conditions would have been 76°! Last night I noticed an ambulance going by. Normally the first thing I recognize is the noise, but last night I didn't realize it was an ambulance until I saw the flashing light! Hannah did a wonderful job coordinating the measurements and the sale! I would recommend these windows to anyone!

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Excellent product, support, and very clear instructions. We look forward to installing these on all our windows.

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    I ordered the "acoustic grade inserts" for my bedroom to reduce road noise. They work exactly as advertised. Are they soundproofing? NO. Do they reduce noise to acceptable levels? YES. Compared to other solutions on the market (replacement windows, glass inserts etc) this is much more affordable. However, if you are looking for actual soundproofing, you need to spend more money and get something else. As a bonus, the inserts are tight fitting and have reduced drafts.

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    We have single pane historic windows in our house in Newport RI. I was looking for a great solution to both temperature and noise. I decided to try the acoustic indow product.

    I am thrilled with the process and the product. James from Indow was super helpful in answering questions. The laser measuring kit was easy to use and gave you confidence in your own measuring ability as it checks your work. The 4 indow products i ordered came well packaged and were easy to put in.

    Finally, the indow inserts look great and work great. We can no longer hear every conversation outside and the birds don't wake us up every morning. My wife didn't even know they were there. They blend in and can't see them unless you look.

    I highly recommend these. More cost effective than custom storm windows, they look better and you can easily install or remove them as you need.

    Fantastic product and service.

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    There work perfectly and I can't even tell they are there. My windows look the same but NO noise!!!

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Excellent servie and support from start to finish!

    So satisfied with my first purchase, I got more indows!

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    We installed the windows in our four seasons room We got some 85 degree days recently and the area stayed amazingly cool usually we would have the AC on it was not needed !!!

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Indow has established the complete breadth of custom service, from initial enquiry to being very responsive to "after-sales" questions. Ours was and out-of-the ordinary project involving casement windows in a solarium and the end result turned out quite perfectly. Access to information online, instructions arriving with the delivered windows, and answers by phone insured we "enthusiastic amateurs" completed the job to satisfaction.

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    I am very pleased with my Indow window inserts. I have a very old house and am near a busy road. I wanted to reduce the noise. I've just installed them and find a considerable reduction in traffic noise. They definitely were worth the cost. The measuring process is quite detailed but easy to follow and my inserts fit perfectly in crooked, 265 year old openings. The company representative Hannah Hendrickson

    was very professional, knowledgeable, and courteous. I highly recommend the Indow

    company.

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    I appreciate everything about the whole Indow window process.

    Scheduling and holding a consultation online was easy and seamless. I consultant with KAYA, and he provided a thorough easy-going no pressure to move forward until I was ready consultation.

    Incentives were clearly outlined if I decided to move forward and order to be able to make my inserts even more affordable if I acted in a timely manner with measuring and submitting my order as well as returning the measure kit.

    The Indow inserts arrived within the expected timeframe and installing them was very easy. One of my favorite parts was watching how to install video, because they used humor, and it really held my attention and put me at ease, allowing me to take in all the little details I needed to insert my Indows correctly.

    Within hours, I noticed a temperature shift in the room. It was cooler and more comfortable. The next day when I worked in my office with the Indows the landscaper was across the street with the leaf blower and there was considerable reduction in noise making it a low background buzz instead of a disturbance to the work I was doing. I’ve only had them installed for three weeks and I’ve been so happy with them. It was a great investment for that room in the house that I use for my office.

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    A great product. Excellent fit. Greatly reduced outside noise. Easy to install. Very happy!! Match your frame color to your current frame color and they disappear. So glad I got them.

  • 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

    Well it all starts with customer service. 10 out of 10. Brain McCracken did a great job. The waiting period wasn’t long considering they had to make the window inserts and measuring the window units with the laser was actually fun. Worth every penny!