Measuring your windows.

1. Inspect your window for suitability

Before measuring your window, ensure that there is gap of at least 15mm.

If sash locks or other window furniture obstruct the 15mm frame from slotting in, these items can be replaced or relocated.

Other things to look out for

Frame depth

Retro Panes have a total depth of 14.6mm. Your window frame needs to have a depth of at least 13mm to accommodate the panel.

Frame angle

The angle between the glass surface (primary glazing) and the frame should ideally be no more than 110 degrees. 

Most frames have a 90-degree angle. If your frame angle exceeds 110 degrees, the foam may not hold the pane securely. In such cases, we can use additional tape to secure the pane to the primary glazing, provided the primary glazing is sufficiently strong (+3mm thick).

Beading (supporting strip at the edge of glass)

If your window has beading (approximately 5mm) that seals the primary glazing into the frame, we will still need at least 13mm of frame space after the beading to properly slot the panel into your window.

Condensation

Retro Panes are highly effective at reducing and eliminating condensation.

Condensation during specifically cold days

If you notice condensation on cold days, it may indicate that your windows are not properly sealed. Typically, this means that moisture is entering the cavity through the wood or small gaps between the primary glazing and the wooden window frame. This often suggests that your window frames require refurbishment, such as repainting or sealing.

Quick fix

Releasing the panes and wiping away the condensation is a simple and straightforward solution.

Heavy preexisting condensation issues

If your windows frequently suffer from significant condensation, please contact us for a case-by-case assessment. Alternatively, you can order a single pane to test our glazing system firsthand.

2. Naming your windows

Give each window and each separate pane within a window a unique name.

3. Measure twice, order once

For accurate measurements, we recommend using a measurement tape with a top reader feature. We recommend the STANLEY top reader power lock tape measure. Get in touch if you'd like us to lend you one for free, with return postage covered by us.

For large window panes, use the average of two measurement readings for both width and height to account for any warping or bowed frames. Take one measurement one-third of the way up and a second measurement two-thirds of the way up the pane.

Repeat this process for the width of the pane.

4. Note down the average

Calculate the average height and width for each pane, and input this value on the Retro Panes Shop.

For example:

George's Bedroom Window, Pane 1:

  • Width 1 = 100mm
  • Width 2 = 102mm
  • Add the two widths: 100 + 102 = 202
  • Divide by 2: 202 ÷ 2 = 101mm

Retro Pane Width = 101mm

If the average is a decimal, round down to the nearest whole number.

Additional support

If the gap between your window pane and lock is less than 15mm, it may be necessary to move the fixtures or replace them with a slimmer sash lock. We've had good experiences with the Brighton Sash Locks from B&Q.

If you would like additional guidance, send us a message.

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