Measure Your Window or Door Part
Record what you can safely observe. Clear reference points and honest unknowns are more useful than guesses.
These are general, provisional identification tips—not manufacturer specifications or compatibility rules. Verify measurements against the manufacturer’s documentation before ordering. Keep glass and spring-loaded hardware supported; ask a qualified professional when access or removal is unsafe.
Measuring screw-hole spacing
- Measure from the center of one mounting hole to the center of the next. Record lock and keeper hole spacing separately.
- For more than two holes, sketch their pattern and record each relevant spacing. Include the units; do not round to an expected replacement size.
Relevant intake prompts: Sliding patio door mortise lock · Casement crank/operator · Patio door handle set · Window sash cam lock and keeper · Sliding patio door roller assembly · Storm door closer · Storm or screen door push-button latch
Return to Add DetailsMeasuring overall length and width
- Record overall length, width, and depth separately. Note whether covers, tabs, arms, or end fittings are included.
- For operator arms, state the points measured (for example pivot centers or end-to-end). Supplier conventions can differ, so retain photos and the original observations.
Relevant intake prompts: Sliding patio door mortise lock · Casement crank/operator · Patio door handle set · Window sash cam lock and keeper · Storm door closer · Sliding window track/fin lock · Storm or screen door push-button latch
Return to Add DetailsMeasuring roller diameter
- Measure across the wheel through its center, excluding the housing. Record the wheel’s width and profile in notes if you can see them.
- A worn wheel can give an incomplete measurement. Photograph its profile and do not assume an exact replacement diameter from the photo alone.
Relevant intake prompts: Sliding patio door roller assembly
Return to Add DetailsMeasuring roller housing dimensions
- Measure the metal housing length, width, and height independently from the wheel. Describe mounting tabs and adjustment screws.
- Record whether a measurement includes tabs or adjustable wheel extension. Do not remove a heavy glass door just to obtain a measurement; use a qualified professional when removal is needed.
Relevant intake prompts: Sliding patio door roller assembly
Return to Add DetailsMeasuring window balances
- First distinguish a spiral tube from a metal channel using its visible construction. Photograph all markings before recording dimensions.
- Record the metal tube or channel length separately from rods and end fittings. For tubes record diameter; for channels record width and depth. Exact manufacturer measurement conventions must be checked later.
- Balance systems may be under spring tension and support the sash. Do not release tension, dismantle a balance, or remove a supported sash just to measure it. Record Unknown when access is unsafe.
Relevant intake prompts: Spiral window balance · Channel window balance
Return to Add DetailsIdentifying balance end fittings
- Photograph both ends and the side profile, including hooks, shoes, wings, clips, and any stamped markings. Label which end is which.
- Record how each fitting attaches and note any missing or broken pieces. Similar-looking fittings are not proof of interchangeability.
Relevant intake prompts: Spiral window balance
Return to Add DetailsMeasuring lock backsets
- Record the distance from the faceplate or door-edge reference to the operating spindle/key center, and state exactly which reference points you used.
- Photograph the lock faceplate and body, mounting holes, and latch or hook direction. Do not infer lock compatibility from backset alone; manufacturer documentation defines the relevant reference points.
Relevant intake prompts: Sliding patio door mortise lock
Return to Add DetailsIdentifying left/right orientation
- State which side you were viewing: inside, outside, hinge side, or another clearly described position. Photograph both sides and the direction the part moves.
- Left/right and handing conventions vary by manufacturer and hardware family. Choose Not Sure if you cannot confirm the intended convention. Do not mirror reference photos to infer handing.
Relevant intake prompts: Sliding patio door mortise lock · Casement crank/operator · Patio door handle set · Window sash cam lock and keeper · Storm door closer · Storm or screen door push-button latch
Return to Add Details