How to Measure for Toughened Glass (Accurately, First Time)

Ordering custom toughened glass is simple when you follow the steps below. Use this guide to ensure your measurements are correct before production.

1. Measure the Opening Twice

Use a tape measure and record:

• Width (mm)

• Height (mm)

Measure each dimension twice, at two different points. Walls, tiles and frames are rarely perfectly straight — this checks for unevenness.

2. Deduct Your Tolerance (We Can Do This For You)

We offer a free tolerance‑checking service — send us your measurements and we’ll calculate all reductions for you.

If you prefer to calculate manually, use the rules below:

Standard Opening

• Deduct 5 mm from the tight opening size This ensures the glass fits safely without pressure.

Wall‑to‑Glass Hinges

• Deduct 8 mm This allows correct hinge movement and prevents binding.

Glass‑to‑Glass Hinges

• Deduct 4 mm This ensures a clean, safe pivot between two glass panels.

U‑Channel Installations

Wherever U‑channel is used:

• Deduct 5 mm This allows the glass to sit correctly inside the channel.

Shower Doors (Drip Seal Allowance)

For any door:

• Deduct 10 mm at the bottom This ensures the drip seal fits and functions correctly.

If you’re unsure, send us your measurements — we’ll confirm everything before production.

3. Mark Any Holes, Cut‑Outs or Notches

If your glass needs:

• Hinges

• Handles

• Brackets

• Channel fixings

• Socket cut‑outs

• Notches for tiles or trims

Measure from the edges, not the centre.

Example: “Hinge hole 45 mm from left edge, 120 mm from bottom.”

Clear measurements = perfect CNC accuracy.

4. Measuring Shaped Panels

For shaped or angled pieces:

• Measure corner to corner

• Provide all straight‑line dimensions

• Mark any angles or slopes if possible

We can plot the exact panel shape using AutoCAD from your corner‑to‑corner measurements.

This ensures perfect accuracy for:

• Sloped ceilings

• Angled shower screens

• Triangular panels

• Irregular shapes

• Cut‑outs around beams or tiles

If you’re unsure, send us a photo — we’ll guide you.

5. Free Template Collection Service

If your panel is complex or difficult to measure, we offer a free template collection service:

• Create a cardboard or MDF template

• Mark all edges, holes and cut‑outs

• We collect it from your address

• We digitise it using AutoCAD

• Your glass is cut exactly to your template

This is ideal for:

• Irregular shapes

• Tight spaces

• Non‑square openings

• Detailed cut‑outs

• Replacement panels where the old glass is broken

This service guarantees perfect accuracy.

6. Choose Your Thickness

Typical thicknesses:

• 6 mm — small panels, shelves

• 8 mm — splashbacks, table tops

• 10 mm — shower screens, larger panels

• 12 mm — heavy‑duty or oversized panels

If you’re unsure, we’ll recommend the correct thickness for your project.

7. Final Checks Before Ordering

Double‑check:

• Width

• Height

• Tolerances

• Hinge spacing

• U‑channel reductions

• Drip‑seal allowance

• Hole positions

• Thickness

• Any special cut‑outs

• Shape measurements

Once toughened, glass cannot be altered, so accuracy is essential.

Need Help?

Send us your measurements or a photo of your space — we’ll confirm everything before production.