I always found it difficult to accurately measure windows with a tape measure, until I put a couple of sticks together. The sticks work great for measuring window widths for window shades or for ordering replacement windows. It is also perfect for finding a minimum width, because nothing in an old house is straight.
For measurements between about 26 and 42 inches you will need two straight pieces of wood approximately 1/4 x 3/4 x 24 inches. Round off one end on both pieces.
You can use a small clamp to lightly hold the pieces together. (Optionally, if you have a router table you can put slots in the two pieces to accomodate a bolt, nut and washers.)
Adjust the two pieces so that their combined length is just a little longer than the space you want to measure, and put only light pressure on the clamp or bolt. Twist the device through the space you are measuring so that the length of the device assumes the exact width you are measuring.
Do this in a couple of places (at the top, middle and botton of the window) to find the minimum width. Then tighten up the bolt (or clamp) just a little so it doesn't slip. Then measure the combined length of your sticks with a tape measure. This is amazingly precise.
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