Glass Weight Calculator: How Much Does Glass Weigh?

Don’t let the details weigh you down

A smiling man is looking out a large window
Photo: FG Trade / E+ / Getty Images
A smiling man is looking out a large window
Photo: FG Trade / E+ / Getty Images
Highlights
  • The weight of glass depends on the area and thickness.

  • The average rectangular window weighs 20 to 30 lbs.

  • The average sliding window weighs 45 lbs.

  • Work with a local window installer to ensure your windows are level and airtight.

  • If replacing or installing windows yourself, you’ll need a partner to assist with the weight.

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Knowing the weight of your glass helps you plan your design, support structure, transportation, and installation. Learn how much glass weighs with our glass weight calculator. No matter the size, shape, and thickness of your glass, we’ve got you covered. 

How Much Does Glass Weigh?

Based on the size, shape, and thickness of the glass, refer to the table below to estimate how much your glass weighs. 

ShapeSize (in Feet)Area in Square FeetThicknessWeight
Rectangle2x36⅛ inch9.87 lbs.
Rectangle2x36¼ inch19.74 lbs.
Rectangle2x48⅛ inch13.16 lbs.
Rectangle2x48¼ inch26.32 lbs.
Square3x39⅛ inch14.81 lbs.
Square3x39¼ inch29.61 lbs.
Oval2x2.53.94⅛ inch3.27 lbs.
Oval2x2.53.94¼ inch6.53 lbs.
Circle3-foot diameter7.1⅛ inch4.21 lbs.
Circle3-foot diameter7.1¼ inch8.43 lbs.

Glass Weight Calculator

Using your glass square footage and thickness, apply the following formula to determine how much your glass weighs:

Glass Weight (lbs) = Area (ft²) * Thickness (in) * Density (10.4 lbs/ft²)

Example: 20.8 lbs = 8 square feet * 0.25 inches * 10.4 lbs/ft²

How to Measure Area for Glass

Person holding clear glass sheets
Photo: Andrzej Rostek / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

The key measurements for calculating the weight of glass are the area and the thickness. By multiplying these measurements, you can calculate the volume of the glass and, subsequently, its weight. 

How to Measure the Area of a Square or Rectangle Glass

Measure the length and width of your square or rectangle, and record the measurements. Multiply the length by the width to get the area. 

How to Measure Area for Irregular Shapes

For irregularly shaped glass, such as ovals, circles, and triangles, you’ll need to determine the area using a specific formula. Each shape has its own formula for calculating the area. 

Circle: Area of a circle = π × r2

R equals the radius of the circle, π is pi, or 3.14

Oval: Area = π * a * b 

A is the semimajor (longer) axis, B is the semiminor (shorter) axis, π is pi, or 3.14

Triangle: Area = (1/2) * base * height

Custom: Find the formula for the area of your given shape.

Who to Hire to Install Windows

Installing new windows takes precision, tools, and practice. Work with a local window installation pro to ensure your windows are level and airtight. The cost of a window installer ranges from $100 to $300 per window for labor, depending on the size and type of window. If you’re a handy DIYer, you can install replacement windows yourself. But for new construction windows, hire a pro unless you’re an experienced carpenter or handyman.

Frequently Asked Questions

Bathroom mirrors weigh between 6 and 13 pounds, depending on the size. A 16x20-inch mirror weighs 6 pounds, while a 24x36-inch bathroom mirror weighs 12.5 pounds. Large mirrors, such as a 30x40-inch mirror, weigh 46 pounds. When installing or hanging a bathroom mirror, have a neighbor or partner assist you in lifting and holding the mirror in place. A second set of eyes can also help ensure the mirror is centered and level. 

Heavy glass tends to be more expensive than thin glass because it is stronger and more durable. In most cases, ¼-inch-thick glass is ideal for mirrors, and ⅛-inch-thick glass is ideal for residential windows. Heavier glass isn’t always necessary, and can be more challenging to hang or install. Work with a local window installation pro for replacement or new construction windows.

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