2024 Glass Prices Per Square Meter Guide: Toughened, Laminated, Clear, and Double Glazed Glass Costs Per Sqm for Midrand, Pretoria, East, North, West, South, Centurion and South Africa
This guide explores 2024 glass prices per square meter in South Africa. We’ll focus on toughened and double glazed options.
Glass has been around since 7000 BC. It evolved from a luxury to an essential building material. The modern glass industry began in 19th century England.
Midrand Glass’s pricing guide, updated on 12th March 2024, covers various glass types. Prices range from R354/sqm for 4mm clear float to R1297/sqm for 6.38mm Low E Laminated.
We’ll examine toughened and double glazed glass prices per sqm. We’ll also look at factors affecting glass market prices in South Africa.
This guide helps homeowners planning renovations and contractors seeking supplier rates. We’ll explore glass costs to help you make informed decisions – Contact us
Understanding Glass Types and Their Applications
Glass is vital in modern architecture and design. Let’s explore various glass types and their unique uses. We’ll focus on float, toughened safety, laminated, and double glazing options.
Float Glass: The Foundation of Glazing
Float glass is the basis for most glazing applications. It’s produced by 260 plants worldwide, making up to 800,000 tonnes weekly. This versatile material comes in thicknesses from 0.4mm to 25mm.
Float glass is commonly used in windows and mirrors. Its high transparency makes it ideal for these applications.
Toughened Safety Glass: Strength and Durability
Toughened safety glass is four to five times stronger than untreated glass. It’s perfect for car windows and shower doors. These areas need high-impact resistance.
BA Systems installs over 350 tons of toughened glass yearly. This shows how widely used it is.
Laminated Glass: Safety and Sound Control
Laminated glass enhances safety and security. It uses a 1.52mm thick Polyvinyl Butyral (PVB) interlayer. This layer helps it hold together upon impact.
It’s ideal for car windshields and hurricane-resistant windows. Some types offer five times the tear strength of standard PVB. This provides superior protection against severe weather.
Double Glazing: Energy Efficiency and Comfort
Double glazing units are energy-efficient glass solutions for windows and doors. They reduce heat transfer, improving comfort and energy savings. Low-E glass reflects heat and light.
This further enhances insulation in homes and buildings. It’s a smart choice for energy-conscious homeowners.
| Glass Type | Key Feature | Common Application |
|---|---|---|
| Float Glass | High transparency | Windows, mirrors |
| Toughened Glass | High impact resistance | Car windows, shower doors |
| Laminated Glass | Enhanced safety | Windshields, skylights |
| Double Glazing | Energy efficiency | Insulated windows and doors |
Glass prices per square meter: A Comprehensive Breakdown
The Glass prices per square metre are vital for construction and renovation projects. We’ve created a detailed comparison to guide your glazing choices. This breakdown will help you make smart decisions for your project needs.
Float Glass Prices: From 4mm to 12mm
Float glass prices change with thickness. A 4mm pane costs R354 per square metre. For 6mm glass, you’ll pay about R594 per square metre.
This basic glazing option is the starting point for many glass products. It’s a versatile choice for various applications.
Toughened Glass Costs: Balancing Safety and Budget
Toughened glass offers enhanced strength and safety features. Prices start at R636 per square metre for 4mm thickness. For 12mm thickness, expect to pay R1521 per square metre.
The pricing structure considers factors like size and edge finishing. These elements affect the final cost of your toughened glass.
Laminated Glass Pricing: Protection at a Premium
Laminated glass starts higher due to its protective properties. Clear 6.38mm laminated glass begins at R722 per square metre. Speciality options like 8.38mm Low E glass can reach R1298 per square metre.
Double Glazing Rates: Investing in Insulation
Double glazing rates reflect energy-efficient properties. Basic units start at R918 per square metre. Prices can climb to R1975 for specialised configurations like 6.38Clear-12-6.38Artic.
These units provide excellent thermal insulation. They can significantly reduce your energy bills over time.
| Glass Type | Thickness | Price (R/sqm) |
|---|---|---|
| Float | 4mm | R354 |
| Toughened | 4mm | R636 |
| Laminated | 6.38mm | R722 |
| Double Glazed | Basic Unit | R918 |
These prices are indicative and may vary. Factors like location, supplier, and market conditions affect costs. Urban areas typically have higher prices than suburban locations.
For accurate pricing, always get a personalised quote. This ensures you receive the best value for your specific project needs.
Factors Influencing Glass Pricing in South Africa
Glass pricing in South Africa depends on many factors. Raw materials, manufacturing, and import costs all affect the final price. The weight of glass is crucial, with 4mm float glass weighing 10Kg/m2 and 12mm at 30Kg/m2.
Processing requirements greatly impact manufacturing costs. Polishing, shaping, and special treatments like Low-E coatings can increase prices. Market demand, energy costs, and currency changes also influence the glass supply chain.
South Africa’s glass market shows growing interest in energy-efficient solutions. Clear double glazed aluminium windows have a U-value of 2.8, while single glazed options are at 5.6. This focus on energy saving is changing pricing across the industry.
| Window Type | Size (mm) | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Aluminium Sliding | 900 x 900 | R1500 – R2500 |
| Aluminium Side Hung | 1200 x 1200 | R2500 – R3500 |
| Aluminium Top Hung | 900 x 900 | R1000 – R1400 |
| uPVC | 600 x 600 | R600 – R1200 |
Glass import costs change with global market conditions and local demand. South African manufacturers are adopting sustainable practices to offset rising energy costs. These complex factors highlight the need for expert advice on glazing project costs.
Comparing Toughened Glass Options and Costs
Toughened glass comes in various types, each with different prices and features. Let’s look at the main options and their costs. Understanding these differences helps you make the best choice for your needs.
Clear Toughened Glass: The Standard Choice
Clear toughened glass is the most common type. It’s strong, safe, and suits many uses. Prices start at R491/sqm for 4mm thickness and go up to R4966/sqm for 19mm thickness.
This glass balances durability and cost-effectiveness. It’s a versatile choice for many projects.
Tinted Toughened Glass: Aesthetics and Sun Protection
Tinted toughened glass adds style and blocks sunlight. Grey or bronze options start at R779/sqm for 4mm thickness. The price rises to R1800/sqm for 10mm thickness.
It costs more than clear glass. But it offers better solar control and privacy.
Low-E Toughened Glass: Energy Efficiency at a Price
Low-E toughened glass is highly energy-efficient. Prices vary, but expect to pay more for this high-performance option. It reduces heat transfer, potentially lowering your energy bills over time.
| Glass Type | 4mm Price (R/sqm) | 10mm Price (R/sqm) |
|---|---|---|
| Clear Toughened | R491 | R2070 |
| Tinted Toughened | R779 | R1800 |
| Low-E Toughened | Price on request | Price on request |
Think about your needs and budget when choosing toughened glass. Clear glass is cost-effective. Tinted and Low-E options offer more benefits at higher prices.
Consider the long-term value and performance. This will help you pick the best glass for your project.
Double Glazing: Understanding the Investment
Double glazing offers many benefits for South African homeowners. It improves energy efficiency and reduces noise. Let’s explore the options and costs to help you make an informed decision.
Standard Double Glazing Units: Pricing and Performance
Standard double glazing in South Africa costs between R800 and R1500 per square metre. PVC frames are the cheapest, ranging from R800 to R1200 per square metre.
Aluminium frames, known for durability, cost R1000 to R1400 per square metre. Wooden frames, offering a classic look, range from R1200 to R1500 per square metre.
Enhanced Double Glazing: Low-E and Gas-Filled Options
Low-E glass and gas-filled units offer improved performance. These options cost R1500-R2200 per square metre but provide superior thermal insulation.
Gas-filled units use argon or krypton between panes for better energy efficiency. While pricier, these options can reduce energy bills by up to 25% over time.
Acoustic Double Glazing: Silence at a Premium
Acoustic double glazing provides superior noise reduction for homes in busy areas. Top-performing configurations can cost up to R2005 per square metre.
This investment can greatly enhance your living environment. It creates a peaceful sanctuary from external noise, improving your quality of life.
FAQ
1. What are the different types of glass covered in this pricing guide?
This guide covers prices for float, toughened safety, laminated, and double glazing units. It includes various thicknesses and configurations for each type.
2. How much does standard float glass cost per square meter?
Float glass prices range from R354/sqm for 4mm to R594/sqm for 6mm thickness.
3. What is the price range for toughened safety glass?
Toughened glass costs vary from R636/sqm for 4mm to R1521/sqm for 12mm thickness.
4. How much does laminated glass cost per square meter?
Laminated glass pricing starts at R722/sqm for 6.38mm clear. It goes up to R1298/sqm for 8.38mm Low E glass.
5. What factors influence glass pricing in South Africa?
Raw material costs and manufacturing processes impact glass prices. Import expenses, glass weight, and processing requirements also play a role.
Market demand, energy costs, and currency fluctuations further affect pricing.
6. What is the price range for clear toughened glass?
Clear toughened glass prices range from R636/sqm for 4mm to R1521/sqm for 12mm thickness.
7. How much does double glazing cost per square meter?
Standard double glazing units start at R918/sqm for a 4-12-4 configuration. Prices increase for enhanced options like Low-E glass or gas-filled cavities.
8. Are prices for acoustic double glazing included in the guide?
Yes, the guide covers pricing for acoustic double glazing units. These can range up to R2005/sqm for top-performing configurations.
An example is 6.38Clear-12-6.38Artic with a black spacer.
