For a novice working on a project involving bolts, washers or nuts, determining the correct measurements can be challenging. After all, terms like thread pitch, shank diameter and tapered socket can sometimes confuse someone new to the fastener vocabulary. That's why we're here to provide you with a measuring guide to help you get what you need.
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How to Measure a Bolt
When you purchase a bolt, the sizing on the package or container typically reflects three measurements — the diameter, the thread count and the length, in that order. For example, our 1/4-20 x 3 A307A Hex Bolt would entail a 1/4-inch diameter, 20 threads per inch and a 3-inch length. The A307A represents the grade of steel, according to standards from the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
For those who do need to measure a bolt manually, it's best to use a micrometer or bolt gauge and follow these guidelines:
To determine the diameter of a bolt, measure the distance from the outer thread on one side to the other. This calculation is called the major diameter. Do not include the head in your measurement.
The inclined plane degree of the bolt's threading indicates the pitch of a bolt. The thread pitch represents the number of threads per inch — there are several ways to obtain this number, such as a thread pitch gauge or the three wire method.
The distance from the end to the flat part of the head determines the length. Always measure from underneath the head to the end to calculate this number.
At FMW Fasteners, we offer a large selection of bolts for almost any application or purpose. We list all sizing data in the bolt specifications to ensure quick and easy ordering.
How to Measure Flat Washer Size
Washer size refers to the diameter of the hardware's hole and correlates with the bolt diameter. The outside diameter (OD) of a washer is always wider than the fastener. Most manufacturers usually specify size and OD in fractional inches, although some occasionally use decimal measurements.
Example: If you're determining the diameter of a washer (without knowing the package specs) and measure 5/16 of an inch, it most likely fits a bolt with a diameter of one-quarter of an inch.
At FMW Fasteners, our hardware products help you pick a washer size by first specifying the diameter of the bolt a piece will fit, followed by the hardness value and whether it is beveled. For example, our 1/2 F436 Beveled Washer Plain consists of carbon steel and has a hardness that conforms to ASTM F436. It fits a bolt with a 1/2-inch diameter.
Most flat washers are shown with a single sizing option: Diameter.
This indicates the nominal inner diameter of the washer AND the bolt diameter this washer is designed to work with. The size of a washer indicates the size bolt that it fits, so you will choose your washer hardware to match the diameter of the fastener you selected.
An exception would be Fender Washers. By design, these allow you to select from two size options (i.e. 1/4 x 3/4). The first indicates the nominal inner diameter. This is the bolt diameter it works with. The second indicates the outer diameter of the washer itself.
How to Measure a Nut
When determining nut size, you can calculate the diameter the same way as a washer. However, you must consider the threads of the nut if measuring manually.
At FMW Fasteners, our nuts first indicate the diameter of the bolt they fit, followed by the thread count and the material. For example, our 3/4-10 Cap Nut 18-8 SS fits a 3/4-inch diameter bolt. It has 10 threads per inch and consists of 18-8 stainless steel — 18% chromium and 8% nickel.
We feature a comprehensive selection of nuts for any application, from cap nuts to flange nuts to jam nuts and more.
Choosing FMW Fasteners as Your Trusted Supplier
At FMW Fasteners, we offer a large selection of bolts, washers, nuts and other fasteners without imposing minimum order quantities. Since 1986, we have been providing high-performance hardware to our long list of dedicated customers. To learn more about our products, browse our extensive online catalog today.
Washers and dryers come in a variety of styles and sizes. And so do laundry rooms, having a different design and layout in every home, apartment, or condo. So, while you might be coveting a brand-spanking-new washer and dryer for your home, do you know if your laundry area is the right size to house them?
Learning how to measure for a new washer and dryer can help you buy the right size appliances and assist in a smooth delivery and installation. So, check out how to measure your laundry appliances and the designated space below!
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How to Measure for a New Washer and Dryer
Other Laundry Room Measurements FAQ
Washer and Dryer Sizes
Before purchasing a new washer and dryer, and even before grabbing your handy tape measure, there are a few things to consider. For your new washer and dryer location, check for a few of the following:
Once you have answered these questions, you can get to measuring! As the saying goes, “measure twice, cut once” — except buying in this case. The last thing you want is to purchase laundry appliances too large to fit through the door, hall, or in the designated laundry room. If you prefer a more visual how-to, watch our How to Measure for a New Washer & Dryer! But if you like written instructions, take a look at our how-to and tips below!
Q: How much space do you need to leave around the washer/dryer?
A: The recommended amount of space to leave is roughly 48 inches.
Q: How much space do you need in front of the washer/dryer?
A: Make room for at least four feet of space for unloading/loading the units.
Q: How much space for vents and connections?
A: Leave a minimum of four inches behind the appliances for the connections.
Q: How much space do you need to leave to minimize noise?
A: Allow for one inch of space on each side and between the washer and dryer to reduce noise.
Washer and Dryer Pair
All washer and dryer pairs vary in size, but the standard dimensions for pairs placed side by side are about 27 inches in width and around 35–43 inches in height. So, your designated laundry room needs at least a 54-inch space at the very minimum.
Stackable Washer Dryer
If your laundry area has more height than width, stackable washer and dryer pairs would be the best choice to consider. The average size stacked washer dryer models have a width of 24–27 inches and a height of 70–76 inches. With that in mind, don’t forget to factor in your laundry room’s ceiling height to make sure you have room to accommodate the washer and dryer. It’s also important to know that you should specifically purchase a stackable unit rather than attempt to stack solo appliances since it can be unsafe.
Front Load Washer and Dryer on a Pedestal
Whether you are shopping for a new or replacement washer or dryer separately or need a laundry pair, equip your front load models with a pedestal to help reduce the amount of bending in unloading and loading your laundry. Just be sure to include the pedestal in your measurement for your new models since it adds about 12–14 inches in height.
Don’s Appliances has supported our customers and Pennsylvania communities for 50 years with our appliances and housewares expertise and competitive prices! Browse some of our laundry appliances online after measuring your laundry room’s dimensions. Or stop by in person if you have questions at one of our soon-to-be eleven appliance showrooms throughout Pennsylvania, including Pittsburgh, Canonsburg, North Huntingdon, and Morgantown, West Virginia!
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