Why can two similar panels have a different price per square metre?

Compare the thermal transmittance. Within one family of 80 mm wall PIR panels, U is 0.24 W/(m²·K), while 100 mm has 0.19 W/(m²·K). The price of different thicknesses relates to different properties. However, these figures should not be attributed to the entire PIR market.

Also establish the fire requirements. The name of the core alone does not describe the classification of the assembly. The offer should allow the appropriate product and scope of application to be identified. A cheap substitute only makes sense if it meets the requirements envisaged for the given building.

The coating is important for surface durability. Different conditions prevail on an external façade than in a damp interior. With regular cleaning, the agents used and the method of application must be known. Choosing a white-coloured panel is not enough.

A special finish may be needed in a specific environment, but it is not automatically more advantageous in every application. The selection should follow from the actual conditions. It is worth knowing which parameter is being paid more for and whether it will be needed in the room in use.

Also check the maintenance recommendations. The type of coating affects the permitted cleaning and the method of repair. A building with frequent movement of goods may be exposed to impacts. The cost of the material should be assessed together with the ability to keep its surface in good condition.

There is a specific cladding area to be covered, and specific pieces to be purchased. The cover lengths and widths determine the waste. A batch that is cheaper per metre may require purchasing a larger quantity. Especially in a small building, a few non-fitting panels clearly change the result.

Establish whether the rate refers to a square metre, a linear metre or a piece. Also check the basis for calculating the width. If the price relates to a full panel, payment should not be assumed solely for the offcut remaining after cutting.

Ask for a schedule of lengths for each proposal. The comparison should show the area purchased and the area used. Do not hide waste in a single figure. By separating the quantities, you can assess whether the issue is the material price or a poorly matched cutting plan.

Assume two hypothetical, technically permissible variants for 52 m² of finished cladding. Offer A requires the purchase of 56 m² at €27.31 net per m². The material costs €1,529.36 net. After adding €342.55 for the agreed extras and delivery, the total is €1,871.91 net.

Offer B comprises 52 m² at €31.71 net per m², that is €1,648.92 net for the panels. The extras and delivery cost €189.79 by agreement. In total this is €1,838.71 net. In this example, the higher unit rate leads to a total that is €33.20 lower.

Converted to the 52 m² used, we get approximately €36.00 net/m² for A and €35.36 for B. This is an example calculation, excluding installation. It does not mean that more expensive panels will always produce a cheaper range. The result depends on the actual lengths, prices and extras.

Check whether both offers include the same flashings, fasteners and sealants. Confirm the delivery date and unloading. If one cost remains unknown, the total is not yet comparable. It is worth clarifying it before reserving a batch.

Establish the validity of the price and the conditions for changing quantities. For a small structure, adjusting one panel can change the entire packing unit or the transport method. If the offer includes discounted material, a description of its condition is needed. A low rate alone does not explain the limitations on use.

Keep the specification together with the quote. It allows you to check the delivery and return to the arrangements for a later repair. The choice should be based on the required properties and the cost of the entire scope. The price per metre remains useful information when it is known exactly what it refers to.

For a small order, also ask about the cost of buying one additional piece. If an extension is planned, the colour and profile match of the next batch may be more important than a small difference in the initial price.