Galvanized steel strip coils are widely used in construction, HVAC, manufacturing, and electrical applications. One of the most common thicknesses for these coils is 1.0mm, offering a balance of strength, flexibility, and corrosion resistance. When sourcing galvanized steel, especially in bulk, buyers often need to know the cost per square meter to estimate material budgets accurately. This article explores how to calculate that cost, the key pricing factors involved, and what you can expect to pay based on current market conditions.

Understanding Galvanized Steel Strip Coils

Galvanized steel is steel that has been coated with a layer of zinc to protect it from corrosion. This zinc layer can be applied using hot-dip galvanizing or electro-galvanizing methods. Galvanized strip coils are typically used for:

• Roofing and cladding

• Ducting systems

• Electrical enclosures

• Automotive components

• Steel framing and structural applications

Thicknesses typically range from 0.3mm to 3.0mm, with 1.0mm being a popular choice for general-purpose structural and protective applications.

Why Cost Per Square Meter Matters

Suppliers often price galvanized steel by the ton or kilogram, but many projects—especially in construction and sheet metal fabrication—require budgeting by area. Calculating the cost per square meter allows engineers, procurement teams, and estimators to:

• Forecast project material costs accurately

• Compare prices from different suppliers

• Optimize material utilization and minimize waste

• Standardize quotes and bids across metric-based projects

Calculating Cost Per Square Meter for 1.0mm Galvanized Steel

To determine the cost per square meter, we need three key variables:

1. Steel density

2. Sheet thickness

3. Market price per ton (or per kg)

Let’s break down each of these.

1. Steel Density

The standard density of galvanized steel is approximately:

$$\text{Density}=7,850\text{kg/m³}$$

This means every cubic meter of galvanized steel weighs around 7,850 kg.

2. Thickness

For 1.0mm galvanized steel:

$$\text{Thickness}=1.0\text{mm}=0.001\text{meters}$$

3. Weight per Square Meter

Using the formula:

$$\text{Weight}=\text{Thickness}\times \text{Density}$$ $$\text{Weight per m²}=0.001\times 7,850=7.85\text{kg/m²}$$

4. Market Price of Galvanized Steel

As of July 2025, galvanized steel strip coil pricing in the U.S. Midwest and other international markets ranges from:

• $900 to $1,100 per short ton

• 1 short ton = 907.18 kg

That means the price per kilogram is approximately:

Price per kg=1,000907.18≈$1.10\text{Price per kg} = \frac{1,000}{907.18} \approx \$1.10Price per kg=907.181,000​≈$1.10

(Note: Prices may vary based on zinc coating (G40, G60, G90), coil width, processing, and shipping.)

Final Calculation

Let’s now calculate the price per square meter for 1.0mm thick galvanized steel:

$$7.85\text{kg/m²}\times \$1.10=\$8.64\text{per m²}$$

Summary Table

Factors That Affect Price

Several factors can influence the actual cost per square meter:

1. Zinc Coating Weight
   Heavier coatings like G90 cost more due to higher zinc content.

2. Coil Width and Slitting
   Narrower strips or custom sizes often add a premium.

3. Order Volume
   Bulk orders (e.g., 100–500 tons) usually receive discounted pricing.

4. Supplier Location
   Freight and logistics play a role. Domestic suppliers in regions like the U.S. Midwest may offer more competitive rates due to proximity to mills.

5. Market Volatility
   Steel and zinc prices fluctuate with global commodity markets. It’s wise to monitor futures pricing for hot-rolled coil and zinc to forecast costs.

Example Scenario: Midwest U.S. Buyer

Let’s say a construction company in Indiana needs 20,000 m² of 1.0mm galvanized steel strip. Using the $8.64/m² estimate:

• Total material cost =

  $$20,000\times 8.64=\$172,800$$

If they negotiate a better rate (say, $1.05/kg), the cost drops to:

• $1.05 × 7.85 = $8.24/m²

• Total =

  $$20,000\times 8.24=\$164,800$$

A small change in steel price can have a significant impact on total budget for large-scale projects.

International Conversions (Approximate)

If you’re sourcing internationally, here’s a rough conversion at $1.10/kg:

(Rates based on July 2025 currency exchange averages.)

Conclusion

The cost per square meter for 1.0mm thick galvanized steel strip coil is currently around $8.64, based on average market pricing of $1.10 per kg. This number can vary slightly depending on your supplier, zinc coating weight, processing needs, and location.

For accurate project planning and budgeting, always base your cost estimates on up-to-date steel prices and confirm coil specs directly with your supplier. If you’re sourcing in bulk (e.g., 100+ tons), you may be eligible for lower per-kg pricing, which reduces the per-square-meter cost proportionally.