Seven decisions that affect the cost of a sandwich panel order

The choice of core affects price, weight and required thicknesses. No single material is best for every task. A cheaper item does not deliver savings if it does not meet the project requirements. Before requesting a quote, establish the parameters of the entire building envelope, and only then look for variants that provide them.

Thickness affects thermal performance and material consumption. However, it should not be increased without checking the purpose. Within one family of PIR panels, an 80 mm wall has Uc 0.27 W/(m²·K), and a 120 mm wall has 0.18 W/(m²·K). These are data for specific variants, not a universal result for every PIR panel.

Changing the thickness may require longer screws and different flashings. For an extension, adaptation to existing openings is also added. If the new wall projects further out, the window sills, eaves and junction with the plinth must be checked. Include these elements in the budget as well, instead of calculating only the core surcharge.

Compare the thickness of the sheets on both sides and the type of coating. Two panels with the same core may have different facings. This matters for durability and mechanical parameters. The coating should match the environment in which the panel will operate.

For moisture, frequent cleaning or aggressive substances, a more detailed assessment is needed. The appearance of a white surface does not confirm chemical resistance. The operating conditions and the approvals of the selected variant must be known. A surcharge for a suitable coating makes sense when it corresponds to the actual need.

The lengths of the ordered pieces can change the budget more than a small difference in price. Calculate the area purchased and the area that will remain in the enclosure. A large opening does not always mean equal material savings. If it is cut from a full panel, the purchased area still includes the cut-out fragment.

The example is a calculation. At a price of €25.46 net per m², purchasing 120 m² costs €3,055.20 net. If 108 m² remain in the wall, the material attributable to one metre of finished surface costs €28.29 net. Changing the cutting plan can improve this result without changing the material grade.

Screws, seals and flashings are added to the panels. Their quantity depends on the geometry of the building. The same area in one simple rectangle may require fewer flashings than several small walls with many openings. The pricing of extras should therefore be based on the drawing.

Consider separately the details of the junction with the existing part. Sometimes a piece of old flashing needs to be replaced or additional support prepared. A general ‘installation’ item does not always cover these works. Ask for the scope to be specified before you consider two quotes comparable.

The transport cost depends, among other things, on the length of the elements, the delivery location and the division of the order. A long panel may require a different vehicle and unloading equipment. Do not assume that the transport price includes removing the packages and carrying them to the final location.

Staged deliveries reduce the need for storage but may increase the number of journeys. It is worth comparing these costs with the risk of damage on a tight site. For an operating plant, delivery times are also important. A delay at the gate can hinder work not directly related to the construction.

Before production, the lengths, colour and panel layout must be confirmed. A late correction may mean an additional order and unused material. In the case of a renovation, it is worth indicating the moment of the final measurement. Some dimensions can only be confirmed after the old structure has been exposed.

Check the validity of the quote and the conditions for its change. A price without a defined scope and deadline is not a reliable budget. Complete the selection of the supplier with a complete list of elements and confirmation of delivery. An order prepared in this way allows you to assess the cost of the stage rather than just the price of one item.