If you’re looking to make a division in a room, or redesign a room’s layout, there are two popular options ,glass partitions and drywall. Glass partitions and drywall are both used to create separate or distinct spaces in homes and offices , but can be a different experience in regard to costs, space, and design.
When it comes to remodeling an office or putting together a new home, understanding the options can help you decide on what to choose.
In this blog, we compare the two options with cost and space in mind.
Cost: Short-term and Long-term
Generally, drywall is cheaper to install. The materials (like plasterboard and metal frames) are affordable, and the labour costs are generally low. If you’re looking for a basic and low-budget solution, drywall may seem like the better pick.
But it’s worth thinking beyond just the starting cost.
Glass Partitions are costly initially but they never need to be painted, require significantly less maintenance over time, and need to be replaced less compared to drywall. They also help to reduce the need for artificial light in a space since they are transparent and allow natural light through, and could very well reduce your electricity expenses over time.
So, by this consideration, although drywall is cheaper at the outset, glass may represent greater value when considered over time.
Use of Space & Layout
Drywall walls are thicker and take up more space. In smaller rooms or tighter office areas, that can make a difference in how much usable space you have.
Glass partitions are thinner and make rooms feel larger. Even though they create separation; the transparent panels allow you to see through, so the room (or room function) does not feel contained or boxed. Glass balustrade Sydney and partitions can be an intelligent choice when you have less space or want a defined space, without feeling entirely separated from other users or functions.
Light and Openness
One of the biggest benefits of glass is how it lets light move through a space.
Drywall blocks all light. Once a room is closed off with drywall, you’ll need extra lighting to brighten it up. This not only increases energy use but can make the space feel dark and closed.
Glass partitions allow the sun to pass through keeping the space even brighter and not dark or cave-like. If privacy is a concern, frosted or tinted glass can provide separation with a soft glow.
Flexibility and Upgrades
Drywall partitions are more fixed. Once it is built and the changes or upgrades are made, you will have to demolish the wall, take away the broken drywall, and start from scratch. This can be time-consuming and messy.
Glass partitions are easier to move or change. Many systems are designed to be modular meaning you can shift panels around or take them down without much fuss. They’re also simple to clean, don’t need repainting, and hold up well in busy areas.
Noise Control
If your priority is to keep noise down , drywall is typically the better option. It can be filled with soundproofing material to help block noise in meeting rooms, houses and private offices.
Glass can also provide good control over noise; especially when it involves double-glazed or acoustic glass panels. Glass partitions can block just about all of the everyday noise as long as they are sealed and installed correctly.
What Should You Choose?
This is really going to depend on what is most important to your space.
Choose drywall if:
- You want to keep installation costs down
- You don’t foresee needing to change the layout of your space anytime soon
- You need solid sound insulation to consider it private
Choose glass partitions if:
- You are wanting to maximize natural light and the open feel
- If you may need to reconfigure your layout in the future
- If you prefer a modern design and low-maintenance aesthetics.
A Better Way to Divide Your Space
Both glass and drywall are great in different situations. But if you’re looking for a brighter, more flexible and more modern look to your space, glass partitions are often the best choice in the long run.
Drywall offers great privacy, more initial investing savings, but also limits the openness and lightness of your room.
At Trident Glass Services, we install and customise glass partitions Sydney homes and businesses rely on with smart design, quality materials, and a clean finish. If you’re looking to create better spaces without giving up on style or light, explore the top design trends for glass partition walls , to help you find the best solution.
