Estimate glass area, glass weight and aluminum framing needed for windows or a glazed facade — for a simple fixed/single-shutter window.
Glass weight is exact (thickness × 2.5 kg/m², from glass density). Aluminum framing is estimated by simple perimeter for a single fixed or sliding shutter — multi-panel windows with internal mullions need extra profile beyond this figure.
Glass weighs 2.5 kg per square meter for every millimeter of thickness — a direct result of glass's density (2,500 kg/m³). A 6mm pane is 15 kg/m², an 8mm pane is 20 kg/m². This matters for confirming your frame, wall bracket and installation crew can actually support the finished weight.
A basic fixed or single-sliding-shutter window's frame runs around its outer perimeter. Windows with multiple panels, sliding tracks, or a mullion grid need additional internal aluminum profile beyond the perimeter figure — get an exact cutting list from your fabricator once the window design (not just the opening size) is finalized.
5–6mm is standard for typical residential window sizes. Larger openings, ground-floor/high-traffic areas, or safety-code requirements usually call for 8mm tempered glass or thicker, which is also heavier — factor that into frame selection.