Measuring side openings for screens and glass

Measure the opening that the accessory will actually use

An overall frame width and the clear space between posts are not interchangeable measurements. A side accessory also interacts with guides, tracks and the surface at its lower edge. If those reference points are unclear, two people can measure carefully and still provide different numbers. Start by naming the opening and marking the edges used for each dimension.

A TTH Pergola survey should identify each side separately, especially when screens and glass are mixed or the ground changes level. Photographs on tthpergola.com help show the kinds of interfaces involved, but the final measuring convention must match the chosen accessory. Record width and height at the required positions, note visible irregularities and distinguish an early survey from the final manufacturing dimensions. Consider handles, door swings and the place where movable panels will gather. This turns the survey into a description of how the opening works rather than a pair of numbers. It also helps reveal a conflict before a guide, track or panel is made to a dimension based on the wrong reference.

Measure the opening the accessory uses

The outside size of a pergola is not automatically the size required for a screen or glass system. Accessories have their own fixing references, guides and clearances. Ask for the measurement method for the specific product before recording dimensions. Label each side of the pergola consistently so a width cannot be assigned to the wrong opening. A marked photograph and a simple plan can prevent confusion when several sides look similar.

Check level and nearby obstacles

Record any changes in the finished ground and identify steps, drains, handles or light fittings near the opening. Do not average inconsistent measurements without asking how they should be interpreted. The supplier or installer should confirm the required tolerances and whether the proposed opening is suitable. Include the path used by sliding or folding elements, because a panel may fit when closed yet interfere with furniture or another opening during use.

Keep the accessory specification attached

For each opening, record the intended product, operating direction, finish and control arrangement where relevant. Confirm which dimensions are for quotation and which must be verified before manufacturing. If the main frame has not yet been installed, explain that clearly; drawing dimensions and final site measurements serve different purposes. Keep revisions traceable so the installer, frame supplier and accessory supplier are working from the same information at the correct stage. If the opening changes during site work, issue a revised measurement record rather than adding a handwritten correction that may not reach everyone involved in the order.

• Give every opening an identifier.
• Use the specified measurement reference.
• Confirm final dimensions before the accessory is manufactured.

Can I reuse the roof width as the screen width?

No. The relevant accessory dimensions depend on the frame and its interfaces. Follow the confirmed measuring instructions for the selected TTH side system instead of copying the overall roof dimension.