Comparing sandwich panel prices per square metre, including surcharges

A sample panel 5.00 m long with a cover width of 1.10 m gives 5.50 m² of coverage. This does not mean every supplier will calculate the area in exactly this way. The basis of calculation should be stated in the quote. Also establish whether the amount is net or gross. Without this information, comparing the numbers alone can lead to the wrong choice.

Enter the intended use of the panel, the type of core and its thickness. Then give the thickness of both facings, the colour and the type of coating. Add the required thermal and fire properties. If the solution has defined supports, also provide their layout.

The grade of material also matters for the price. A full-value panel and a batch with described defects are not the same item for comparison. For second grade, you need a list of deviations and information on suitability for the application. A reduced price alone does not explain whether the defect concerns appearance, dimension or a significant connecting element.

Sheets or panels are ordered in specific dimensions. The last strip of a wall may require cutting, and a gable slope leaves offcuts. A window opening does not always reduce the amount of material to purchase. It is often cut out of a full element.

As a model, take a wall 11.30 m long and panels with a cover width of 1.00 m. The vertical layout requires 12 strips. At a height of 3.00 m, this gives 36 m² of ordered panels, although the wall rectangle is 33.90 m². This is a geometry example, not a universal waste percentage. The exact result depends on the cutting plan and the possibility of using the remaining pieces.

Assume, solely for the calculation, 36 m² of material at an assumed €27.77/m². The boards alone then cost €999.72. Let us add, for example, €208.30 for flashings and fixings and €138.87 for delivery. This gives €1,346.89 before any tax. These are calculation assumptions, not a current quotation.

After dividing the total by the wall area of 33.90 m², we obtain approximately €39.73/m² for the completed material scope. Installation is still not included. Such a calculation shows the importance of the order area and the add-ons. Do not compare this result with the board price alone from another price list.

In the second variant, use the same geometry and accessory list. Then the difference in totals will genuinely show the impact of the chosen offer.

Price lists may include surcharges for selected colours, coatings, small quantities or unusual lengths. Some options require a minimum batch. A short element does not always have a proportionally low price if a minimum billing length applies. Check the footnotes for the specific variant.

Also establish the transport and unloading conditions. Delivery to the address alone does not necessarily include unloading the material from the vehicle. With long panels, access and equipment can be a significant part of the cost. If you are buying in several stages, check whether the price and colour availability will be confirmed separately for each stage.

When the number of openings or the building length changes, recalculate the entire schedule. Subtracting a few square metres of area does not necessarily mean a proportional reduction in cost. Flashings, transport and order preparation may remain the same. The new layout may also increase the number of cut pieces.

• Compare the quantity and length of elements.
• Confirm the currency of the rate and its validity period.
• Check the add-ons, delivery and unloading.
• Record the payment and collection terms.

Base the final decision on the total amount for the agreed set. The lowest price in the quote header can be favourable, but only the full calculation will show how much the material will actually cost on site.