How do I convert glass dimensions from inches to millimetres?

Multiply inches by 25.4 to get millimetres. For example, 60 inches = 1,524 mm. The Glazing Calculator can do this automatically — toggle the unit selector to Inches and enter your measurements directly.

What is the standard glass density used for weight calculations?

Standard float glass has a density of approximately 2,500 kg/m³, which equals 2.5 kg per square metre per millimetre of thickness. This is the industry-accepted value used in AS 1288 and by glass manufacturers worldwide.

Does the spacer in double glazing affect the weight?

No. The aluminium or warm-edge spacer bar in an IGU contributes negligible weight compared to the glass panes. Only the glass thickness matters for weight calculation.

Is this calculator accurate enough for quoting jobs?

Yes. The area and weight formulas use the same industry-standard values used by glass manufacturers and suppliers across Australia. Always confirm pricing with your supplier.

Can I use this calculator offline?

The web version requires an internet connection. For offline use, download the free Android app from the Google Play Store — it works completely offline with no sign-up required.

How to Quote a Glazing Job: A Practical Guide

Quoting accurately is one of the most important skills in the glazing trade. Under-quote and you lose money; over-quote and you lose the job. Here's how to build a quote you can stand behind.

Step 1 — Conduct a Proper Site Measure Never quote from a customer's rough measurements. Visit the site, measure every opening yourself, and check diagonals to confirm frames are square. Note any access difficulties — confined spaces, height work, or difficult delivery routes all affect your price.

Step 2 — Specify the Glass Correctly For each panel, you need to confirm: • Glass type (toughened, laminated, IGU) • Thickness and configuration (e.g. 6.38mm laminate, 6/12/6 IGU) • Any coatings (Low-E, tint, obscure) • Whether the glass needs to meet AS 1288 safety requirements

Incorrect specification at quote stage leads to costly re-orders and delays.

Step 3 — Calculate Area and Weight Use the Glazing Calculator to determine the total area (m²) and weight (kg) for each panel. Weight matters for two reasons: it affects hardware specifications, and heavy panels may require a mechanical lifter which adds to your labour cost.

Step 4 — Get Your Glass Pricing Contact your supplier with the full specification. Request pricing per m² and confirm lead times — some special glass (oversized toughened, specific Low-E products) can take 5–15 business days. Factor lead time into your project schedule before accepting a start date.

Step 5 — Calculate Labour Estimate time for: • Removal and disposal of old glass (if applicable) • Installation of new panels, including silicone, beads, and glazing tape • Access setup (scaffolding, EWP hire) • Travel time and fuel

A common approach is to quote a fixed rate per panel for standard residential work, then add hourly rates for anything non-standard.

Step 6 — Add Overheads and Margin At minimum, add your overhead rate (insurance, tools, vehicle, admin) and a margin that keeps your business viable. A common starting point for trade work is 15–25% net margin, but this varies widely by market.

Step 7 — Present the Quote Professionally A written quote should include: • Customer name and site address • Clear description of the scope (what panels, what glass) • Total price (inc. GST if applicable) • Payment terms • Quote validity period (typically 30 days — glass prices fluctuate) • Any exclusions

Use the Glazing Calculator's Export PDF feature to generate a panel-by-panel summary you can include with your quote.

How to Quote a Glazing Job: A Practical Guide

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