Green walls, also known as living walls, are becoming increasingly popular as people seek to create more sustainable and visually appealing spaces. Green walls are vertical gardens that can be installed indoors or outdoors, and they provide numerous benefits, including air purification, noise reduction, and improved aesthetics. If you're considering installing a green wall, you're likely wondering how much it will cost. The answer to this question depends on several factors, which we'll explore in this article.
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Types of Green Walls
Before we get into the cost of green walls, it's important to understand the different types of green walls that are available. There are two main types of green walls: modular and non-modular.
Modular green walls are pre-fabricated panels that are designed to be easily installed. They typically come in a set range of sizes and configurations, and ideal for indoor spaces. Non-modular green walls, on the other hand, are custom-built installations that are designed to fit a specific space. These green walls require more design work and are typically more expensive than modular green walls.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Green Walls
There are several factors that can affect the cost of a green wall. These include:
- Type of green wall: As mentioned earlier, modular green walls are generally less expensive than non-modular green walls.
- Installation: DIY or professional install of the modular or non modular green wall.
- Size of the green wall: The larger the green wall, the more expensive it will be. This is because larger green walls require more materials and labor to install.
- Pricing with or without plants: Some companies base their quotes on pricing without plants. Be sure to check whether the advertised price include the plants.
- Type of plants: The type of plants you choose for your green wall can also affect the cost. Some plants are more expensive than others, and some may require specialized care that can increase maintenance costs.
- Maintenance requirements: Green walls require ongoing maintenance, including watering, pruning, and fertilizing. The more maintenance a green wall requires, the more expensive it will be to maintain. Typically, ongoing maintenance will equal 1/3 of the initial cost of the green wall every year.
- location: The location of the green wall can also affect the cost. Outdoor green walls may require more expensive materials to withstand the elements, while indoor green walls may require specialized lighting or irrigation systems.
Cost of Modular Green Walls
Modular green walls are generally less expensive than non-modular green walls. The cost of a modular green wall will depend on the size of the wall, the type of plants, and the manufacturer. Here are some general guidelines for the cost of modular green walls which DO NOT include any plants:
Small modular green walls (2 - 4 square meters) can cost between $500 and $1,500.
Medium modular green walls (4 - 8 square meters) can cost between $1,500 and $5,000.
Large modular green walls (8 - 12 square meters) can cost between $5,000 and $15,000.
It's important to note that these are just rough estimates, and the cost of your green wall may be higher or lower depending on your specific needs and the manufacturer you choose.
Cost of Non-Modular Green Walls
Non-modular green walls are custom installations that are designed to fit a specific space. These green walls require more design work and are typically more expensive than modular green walls. Here are some general guidelines for the cost of non-modular green walls:
Small non-modular green walls can cost between $1,500 and $5,000.
Medium non-modular green walls can cost between $5,000 and $15,000.
Large non-modular green walls can cost between $15,000 and $30,000.
How to save money on green walls
While living green walls provide numerous benefits, they can also be costly, require ongoing maintenance, and can be a health hazard due to insect infestations. For those who want to enjoy the visual appeal of green walls without the ongoing upkeep, artificial green walls can be a great alternative. Here are some of the key benefits of artificial green walls:
- Low maintenance: Artificial green walls require little to no maintenance, which makes them a great option for those who want the look of a green wall without the ongoing upkeep. Unlike living green walls, artificial green walls do not require watering, pruning, or fertilizing.
- Cost-effective: Artificial green walls are less expensive than living green walls. They require less labor and materials to install and do not have ongoing maintenance costs.
- Long-lasting: Artificial green walls are made from durable materials that are designed to last anywhere between 8 and 20+ years depending on the quality of supplier. They can withstand the elements, which makes them a great option for outdoor spaces.
- Versatility: Artificial green walls come in a wide range of styles and colors, which makes them a versatile option for any space. They can be customized to fit a specific space and can be used to create a variety of looks, from modern to traditional. In addition, artificial green walls can be easily moved around - great for individuals who often like to rearrange a space, or move places frequently.
- Eco-friendly: While living green walls are often touted as an eco-friendly option, the amount of plastic used to house and water real green walls are often more that an artificial green wall. Not to mention the fertilizers used for ongoing maintenance. Many artificial green walls are made from recycled materials, and do not require the ongoing maintenance that living green walls do, which saves hundreds of liters of water and fertilizers.
The cost of an artificial green wall will depend on several factors, including the size of the artificial green wall panel, the materials used, and installation costs. When comparing green wall panels from multiple companies, ensure you factor in the size of the panels.
As an example:
A green wall from Bunnings is only $20 per panel, however, the panel size is only 50cm by 50cm. This will require 16 panels and 64 screws to create a green wall that is 4 square meters.
A green wall from Evergreen Walls is $95 per panel, however, the panel size is 1 meter by 1 meter. This will require only 4 panels and 16 screws to create a green wall that is 4 square meters.
When you take into account that each panel requires 4 screws, and must be installed perfectly to ensure minimal overlapping or gaps in the green wall, it is much more cost effective and efficient to purchase a larger panel.
Here are some general guidelines for the cost of artificial green walls which INCLUDE a range of simple & extravagant plants:
Small artificial green walls (2 - 4 square meters) can cost between $190 and $500
Medium artificial green walls (4 - 8 square meters) can cost between $400 and $800.
Large artificial green walls (8 - 12 square meters) can cost between $800 and $10,000.
In conclusion, green walls can be a great addition to any indoor or outdoor space. While living green walls provide numerous benefits, they are costly and require ongoing maintenance to avoid health hazards. For those who want the look of a green wall without the upkeep, artificial green walls can be a great alternative. They are cost-effective, low maintenance, and long-lasting, and they come in a wide range of styles and colours to fit any space. Whether you choose a living green wall or an artificial green wall, you can enjoy the many benefits of greenery in your residential, or commercial space.
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