Tempered glass prices can vary widely in commercial projects. On average, you might expect to pay roughly £10–£30 per square foot of tempered glass, depending on several factors. This guide covers everything from thickness and size to finish and installation so you can estimate your project budget accurately.
Factors Influencing Tempered Glass Pricing
Commercial tempered glass pricing depends on multiple factors. Key influences include thickness, dimensions, finish types, edge processing, order quantity, and installation method. Below is an overview of each:
- Glass Thickness
Tempered glass comes in various thicknesses (e.g., 6mm, 10mm, 12mm). Thicker panels require more material and stronger tempering, so they cost more per square foot.
For example, a 6mm (1/4″) pane might cost £12–£18/sqft, while a 12mm (1/2″) pane often runs £20–£30/sqft or more. Thicker tempered glass is typically chosen for high-load or safety-critical areas, which justifies the higher cost.
2. Size and Custom Dimensions
Larger or custom-cut panels also increase cost. Glass is priced per square foot, so a bigger window or panel uses more material and adds handling and shipping expenses. Odd shapes or custom dimensions can require extra cutting time and may generate waste.
For example, large storefront windows or irregular shapes (semi-circles, polygons) typically cost more than standard sizes.
3. Finish and Color Options
The glass finish has a significant impact on cost. Clear tempered glass is the baseline and usually the most affordable.
Tinted or frosted finishes, as well as specialty low-iron (ultra-clear) glass, add to the price:
- Tinted or Colored Glass: Dark or reflective tints can cost about 10–20% more than clear glass of the same thickness.
- Frosted or Etched Glass: A frosted finish (sandblasted or acid-etched) typically adds a few dollars per square foot extra.
- Low-Iron (Ultra-Clear) Glass: Low-iron glass has exceptional clarity and often commands 20–50% higher price than standard clear glass.
For details on decorative finishes, see our Frosted Glass product page.
4. Edge Work and Cutouts
Any additional fabrication beyond a simple flat sheet will raise the price. Polished or bevelled edges, rounded corners, drilled holes, and cutouts all incur extra charges.
For example, polished edges may add £3–£5 per linear foot, while bevelled edges typically cost more. Drilling holes or creating custom notches can add significant cost per panel. These features require skilled labour, so each hole or specialty edge design increases the total price.
5. Volume and Bulk Orders
Commercial projects often involve large quantities of glass. Ordering multiple panels usually leads to volume discounts. Suppliers may offer tiered pricing: for instance, you might pay retail price for the first few sheets but get 5–10% off in bulk. If you need dozens of panels (for large offices, hotels, or retail stores), ask for a bulk quote. Buying more square footage typically brings the per-unit cost down.
Installation and Application Type
Installation requirements and application type can also influence cost. For example:
- Frameless vs. Framed: Frameless partitions or balustrades require thick glass but skip framing, while framed windows or doors might allow thinner glass but include framing hardware.
- Commercial Uses: Tempered glass is used in offices, conference rooms, storefronts, and shower enclosures. Glass doors and floor-to-ceiling walls demand precision installation.
- Labour and Hardware: Remember to budget for installation labour and mounting hardware. Professional installation can add roughly £5–£15 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the project.
Common commercial applications include:
- Office partitions and glass walls.
- Storefronts and entry doors.
- Glass railings and balustrades.
- Shower enclosures and restroom partitions.
Tempered Glass Pricing Table by Thickness & Finish
The table below shows typical price ranges (£ per square foot) for different thicknesses and finishes of tempered glass:
| Thickness (Approx.) | Clear Finish | Frosted Finish | Tinted Finish | Low-Iron Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 mm (1/4″) | £12 – £18 | £15 – £20 | £14 – £19 | £15 – £20 |
| 10 mm (3/8″) | £15 – £22 | £18 – £25 | £17 – £23 | £18 – £25 |
| 12 mm (1/2″) | £20 – £30 | £22 – £30 | £21 – £28 | £22 – £30 |
Note: These prices are materials-only estimates. Custom shapes, edge polishing, hardware, shipping, and installation will add to the total cost.
Final Thoughts
When planning a commercial project, remember that tempered glass is an investment in safety and durability. Factor in all cost elements – material, fabrication, and installation – budget accurately. Compare quotes from reputable suppliers and ask about bulk pricing if your project is large. By understanding how thickness, size, finish, and installation impact pricing, you can make informed decisions and avoid surprises.
FAQs
Tempered glass is heat-treated to be much stronger and safer than standard annealed glass. The tempering process and required safety certifications add manufacturing costs. As a result, tempered glass typically costs about 20–30% more than regular glass of the same thickness.
Custom dimensions and non-standard shapes require extra cutting, handling, and setup. Suppliers often charge more for odd sizes or unique shapes because they generate more waste and take longer to process. It’s usually cheaper to choose standard sizes if possible, or order in bulk to offset these custom charges.
Yes. Many suppliers offer discounts for large orders. Buying dozens of panels can significantly lower the per-unit price. Ask for tiered pricing or wholesale rates and compare quotes to get the best deal for volume purchases.
Special finishes do add to the base price, but by varying amounts. A frosted or tinted finish generally adds a few dollars per square foot, while ultra-clear low-iron glass can be 20–50% more expensive than standard clear glass. Discuss your design needs with the supplier to understand the exact premium for each finish.
Besides the glass itself, budget for installation labour and hardware. Professional installation can add roughly £5–£15 per square foot, depending on complexity. You’ll also need to account for framing, brackets, or seals as required. Permits or compliance fees—common in commercial projects—should also be included in your overall budget.
Be aware of add-ons like polished edges, drilled holes, and cutouts. These enhancements improve functionality and aesthetics but do cost extra. Also consider delivery charges (heavy glass panels may require special freight) and any minimum order fees some suppliers impose for small or rush orders. Always ask for a detailed quote that itemizes all charges.
