There are many different types and configurations of office partitions available but the basic types are metal stud partitions, aluminium partitions and frameless glazed partitions.
Metal stud partitions
As the name suggests this type of partitioning consists of a galvanised metal stud framework clad with plasterboard.
There are literally hundreds of different specifications available for metal stud partitions and these are determined by your requirements. They have different acoustic ratings, fire ratings and moisture resistance and sometimes all three together so this guide can only give you a very rough idea.
The cost can vary by a huge margin depending on the specification. For example a basic partition consisting of 50mm metal studs at 600mm centres clad with one layer of 12.5mm plasterboard to both sides could cost in the region of £25 to £35 per square metre.
At the higher end a 150mm stud partition clad with two layers of 12.5mm plasterboard to both sides could cost in the region of £55 to £65 per square metre.
These costs will increase if a higher specification plasterboard is required or if insulation quilt is fitted in the cavity. There are many different types and thicknesses of plasterboard which all alter the performance of the partition.
Also this type of partition will require the joints and screw holes filling before decoration or alternatively cover strips to hide the joints.
Aluminium Partitions
Sometimes called demountable partitioning this type consists of an aluminium frame with honeycombed plasterboard panels fitted in between. Like the metal stud partitions above there are many different types and thicknesses available.
For a basic solid 50mm thick SAA aluminium partition the cost could be as little as £30 to £40 per square metre.
At the higher end a centre glazed 75mm thick coloured aluminium partition complete with integral venetian blinds could cost in the region of £120 to £160 per square metre depending the type of glass and if it’s double or single glazed.
Frameless Glazed Partitions
This type consists of an aluminium floor and head track with full height glazing fitted in between. The vertical joints are either silicone or dry jointed but in both cases the joints are almost invisible. Again as with the other types of partitions there are many different specifications including single or double glazed, and there are different types of glass available including acoustic and fire rated.
A basic single glazed system costs in the region of £140 to £160 per square metre and this can rise dramatically depending on the type of glass.
The above rates should only be used as a very rough guideline as the final cost of partitioning can vary by a huge margin depending on location in the country, type of decoration, height of the partition, and overall acoustic and fire requirements.
For an accurate cost and help with the specification I would suggest contacting a professional partition contractor.
