How Much Does It Cost to Install a Glass Wall or Partition?
Normal range: $1,300 - $18,000
Glass walls cost an average of $5,000 to install, but these prices can range from $1,300 to $18,000. Don’t consider DIYing this job—you'll absolutely need a pro.
When you’re looking to transform your home and are tired of placing decor on the walls to get the job done, you might turn to the actual walls themselves. If you’re ready to give it a sleek, high-end look with glass walls and want an estimate of how much this project will cost, we got you! On average, installing glass walls will cost you $5,000; find out what role each factor plays in the final cost here.
- Average
- $5,000
- Low end
- $1,000
- high end
- $22,000
How Much Do Glass Walls Cost Near You
The cost to install glass windows will differ based on where you live. Let’s look at average ranges of what you can expect per linear foot for this project in areas near you:
Los Angeles: $830–$1,100
Miami: $660–$890
Chicago: $870–$1,200
Augusta, ME: $740–$1,000
Saint Paul, MN: $870–$1,200
Philadelphia: $880–$1,200
Austin, TX: $700–$940
Salt Lake City: $700–$950
How Much Do Glass Walls Cost by Type?
There’s no one-size-fits-all for glass walls. In fact, there are many different types of glass walls you can install, each with its own cost.
Glass Curtain Walls Cost
Installing a glass curtain wall will cost you $200 to $600 per linear foot. While these walls aren’t load-bearing, they’re typically part of a wall system and have a lightweight metal frame, like aluminum. This means that they require careful installation with their adjacent structural components.
It’s important to mention that since these walls aren’t load-bearing, they can’t replace a load-bearing wall. So, you’ll need to talk with your contractor before installation to see where you can install these glass walls in your home.
Window Wall Cost
Window walls are custom-made and can come in framed or frameless versions. Installing window walls cost $700 to $1,600 per linear foot.
Sliding Glass Wall Cost
A sliding glass wall, also considered a sliding glass or patio door depending on the application, consists of two panels, with one being stationary and the other being the one that moves. They’re created with impact-resistant glass, allowing them to offer more energy-saving insulation while remaining a durable wall. A sliding glass wall costs $1,100 to $3,000 on average.
Folding Glass Walls Cost
Folding glass walls consist of multiple panels and are connected by hinges. This design resembles an accordion and folds open or close along a track, allowing you to have an open view. Installing a folding glass wall costs $800 to $1,200 per linear foot, though the final range depends on how many panels you want and glass type and finish.
Glass Room Divider Cost
A glass room divider is relatively straightforward. It splits up each room with glass. Most homeowners pay around $90 per linear foot for glass room dividers.
Exterior Glass Wall Cost
Exterior glass walls are load-bearing and adhere to building codes to ensure safety. The cost to install this type of glass wall is $15 to $60 per square foot.
Glass Walls Cost Breakdown
Let’s look at a rough breakdown of where you’re money will go on a project like this:
Material
Of course, the material you’ll use will play a significant role in how much your project will cost. You’ll need to budget $240 to $2,200 per linear foot for this project. Yes, we understand that’s an extensive range, but it’s important to note that the type of glass you want (frosted, patterned, soundproof, ultra-clear, etc.) will determine the price range you can expect.
Labor
The cost of labor is also a factor in your project budget. A licensed and insured professional glazier near you will charge $35 to $150 per hour for this project. Narrowing down which end of that range you fall into is based on your geographical location. Besides location, the labor fees associated with this task depend on the size of your project, where you want them installed, and the glass thickness.
Permit
Depending on the glass wall type and where you want to install it, you might need a permit to get this project done. If you’re removing brick or drywall and installing a glass wall, you’ll need permits to give your pro the go-ahead for this task. You can expect to pay $150 to $2,000 for construction building permits.
Structural Engineer
Besides a permit, you might also need to budget for a structural engineer to ensure that the glass walls will keep your home stable, protecting you and your family and not cracking under the pressure of its load. You’ll need to budget $3,000 on average to hire a structural engineer near you. Depending on your project’s size, you can pay around $500 for an inspection.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Unless you’re highly skilled and certified (as in this is your line of work) to embark on this project yourself, we recommend you leave this to the pros. A glass wall provides structural support to your home, so you can't afford to make a tiny mistake. We understand the appeal of DIYing a project with a hefty price tag, but letting a pro do this for you is safer. Plus, it can cost you more in the long run if it’s not installed correctly, and your warranty probably doesn’t cover installations that weren’t conducted by a professional.
So, trust us on this one—save yourself time, headache, and money and hire a professional glass contractor near you.
Glass Walls Questions and Answers
1. How thick are glass walls?
Glass walls are typically 3/8 to 3/4 of an inch thick, And though it’s not as common, single panes of glass can also be 1 inch thick.
2. Are glass walls more expensive than other materials?
Yes, glass walls are overall more expensive than their brick or drywall counterparts. Though if you need walls for a building with more than two or three stories, glass walls are the more budget-friendly option.
3. What glass is safe for glass walls?
The best (and safest) glass for glass walls is tempered and laminated glass, and these glasses are durable against impact and heat.