Do B&Q Cut Glass to Size?

If you’re planning a job and wondering whether a big-box store can trim a panel while you wait, here’s the straight answer: B&Q don’t generally cut or drill toughened glass to size for you. Most stores sell standard sizes only. For made-to-measure sheets, holes, or edge finishes, you’ll need a glass supplier.

Best in Glass is a trade-friendly, supply-only partner based in Staffordshire with nationwide delivery, fast help on the phone, and both stock and bespoke options. If you need accurate sizing for a partition, balustrade, or tabletop, we can manufacture to your drawings and advise on tolerances before you order.

Why most retailers can’t “just cut it”

Cutting is done before toughening. After the glass is tempered, it cannot be cut or drilled without shattering. Big-box retailers focus on boxed products and pre-cut sizes, which keeps costs down for simple replacements. Custom work needs specialist equipment, polishing, and quality checks, followed by tempering.

If your project needs holes for brackets, hinge cut-outs, or a specific edge finish, you’ll want a supplier who does all the machining first and then toughens the glass to meet safety needs.

When off-the-shelf works — and when it doesn’t

Off-the-shelf glass can be fine for quick fixes: small shelves, basic protectors, or temporary covers. But many trade jobs need tight tolerances and clean edges:

• Office and home partitions. Panels must match U-channels and hardware positions exactly. Browse components in our glass partitioning systems.

• Balustrades and railings. Clamp centres, base shoes, and handrail details dictate the size. See our range for glass balustrades and railings.

• Furniture and interiors. Accurate glass table tops with polished edges look professional and install cleanly. View options for glass table tops.

• Fittings and fixings. You’ll often need compatible brackets, silicone, or drill bits. Explore glass hardware and tools to finish the job properly.

If in doubt, give us a ring on 01889 226444 and we’ll confirm whether a stock size will work or if you’ll save time by ordering bespoke.

What “cut to size” includes

When trade customers ask for cut to size, they usually need more than a quick trim. A properly made-to-measure order can include:

• Exact dimensions to the millimetre

• Edge finishes (flat-polished or arrised) for a clean, safe fit

• Holes and notches for hinges, handles, and brackets

• Shaping (e.g., radius corners or curves)

• Specified thickness (commonly 10 mm or 12 mm for interior systems)

All of this is added before the glass is toughened. Lead times vary with complexity and quantity. We’ll advise the best route once we know your spec.

Measuring tips to avoid reorders

• Measure in several places and work to the tightest point.

• Allow fitting clearance for channels, gaskets, and expansion.

• Follow hardware drawings for hole sizes and edge distances.

• Send a simple sketch or CAD with all dimensions clearly marked.

Need a quick sense-check? Email the drawing to contact@bestinglass.uk and we’ll review it.

Alternatives if you need flexibility

• Order annealed first, then temper. Useful if final sizes depend on site checks.

• Consider laminated safety glass in certain cases. It still needs cutting and edge work before any heat treatment.

• Use adjustable gaskets or trims to absorb small tolerances where the system allows.

Do B&Q cut glass to size? (Variant query)

Retailers like B&Q typically stock pre-cut glass only. They don’t offer on-site cutting of toughened panels or drilling for fixings. For accurate sizing, use a specialist supplier who can machine and then toughen the glass.

Does B&Q sell glass cut to size?

You may find standard sizes that suit simple tasks, but true made-to-measure glass — with holes, polished edges, and exact dimensions — is a specialist service. For trade projects across the UK, Best in Glass supplies both stock products and bespoke panels with nationwide delivery via our catalogue and make-to-measure service.

Why trades choose Best in Glass

• Helpful support. Our team talks to installers daily and is praised in reviews for friendly, practical advice.

• Trade-ready options. Order single panels or bulk runs.

• Staffordshire base, UK-wide delivery. Lead times vary; we’ll give you an honest, practical timescale before you commit.

Prefer to talk it through? Call 01889 226444 or email contact@bestinglass.uk.

FAQs

Do you cut toughened glass to size?

No. All cutting, drilling, and shaping is done first, then the panel is toughened. Tell us your sizes, holes, and edges at the point of order.

Can you trim a few millimetres off on site?

No. Trimming or grinding toughened glass will cause it to shatter. Reorder to the correct size or use system gaskets if suitable.

What thickness should I choose for partitions or balustrades?

10 mm and 12 mm are common for interior work, but always follow the hardware manufacturer’s guidance for your specific system.

How quickly can you supply made-to-measure glass?

Lead times depend on quantity and complexity. We’ll confirm current availability when you share your drawings.

Do you deliver nationally?

Yes, we ship across the UK. Delivery timing depends on the order size and location.