How to Measure Double Glazed Unit Thickness

To measure the thickness of a double glazed unit, you typically use a manual method by taking measurements from the window frame to the glass surface. While the term "calculator" might suggest an automated tool, the common approach involves simple measurements and addition as described in the provided reference.

Here is the straightforward method based on measuring from the frame edge to the glass:

## Steps to Determine Double Glazed Unit Thickness

This method allows you to determine the thickness of the glass unit without removing it from the frame. You will need a **ruler** or **tape measure**.

1.  **Measure the inside distance of the edge of the frame to the glass.**
    *   Position your ruler or tape measure on the *inside* of the window frame.
    *   Measure the distance from the visible edge of the frame (where it meets the glass) across the glass surface to the point where the glass disappears into the frame on the opposite side. This measures the portion of the unit's thickness hidden by the frame on the inside.

2.  **Measure the outside distance of the edge of the frame to the glass.**
    *   Repeat the process on the *outside* of the window frame.
    *   Measure the distance from the visible edge of the frame on the outside to where the glass disappears into the frame on the other side. This measures the portion of the unit's thickness hidden by the frame on the outside.

3.  **Add the two above values together.**
    *   Sum the measurement from step 1 (inside distance) and the measurement from step 2 (outside distance).
    *   The total of these two measurements gives you the **overall thickness** of the double glazed unit (IGU - Insulated Glass Unit). This is because you have measured the part of the unit hidden by the frame on both sides, which together make up the full thickness.

This method works because a double glazed unit is typically fitted into a rebate (a groove) in the window frame. By measuring how much of the glass unit is hidden within that rebate on both the inside and outside and adding those measurements, you get the total thickness of the unit itself.

## Measuring Frame Thickness

While measuring the glass unit thickness, you might also need to know the thickness of the window frame itself. The reference mentions a separate step for this:

4.  **Measure the thickness of the frame from inside to outside.**
    *   Measure the total width of the window frame from the interior face to the exterior face. This is the overall depth of the frame where the unit is seated. This measurement is different from the unit thickness but is often required when specifying replacement units or frames.

By following these steps, you can accurately determine the dimensions needed for your window replacement or renovation project.