Cost of Parapet in South Africa (2024)

Are you considering adding a parapet wall to your property in South Africa? Parapets, those protective barriers often seen atop terraces, balconies, and roofs, not only enhance the aesthetics of your building but also serve vital functional purposes. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the various types of parapet walls, their costs in the South African market, and their myriad uses.

Cost of Parapet Walls in South Africa

The cost of constructing a parapet wall in South Africa depends on several factors, including materials, size, and location. After conducting market research, we’ve compiled a list of common parapet types along with their estimated prices in South African Rand (ZAR):

1. Aluminium Parapet (1 meter): From ZAR 1,200
2. Precast Parapet (1 meter): ZAR 900 – ZAR 1,300
3. Concrete Parapet (1 meter): ZAR 1,500 – ZAR 1,800
4. 300 by 450 Polystyrene Parapet: ZAR 600 – ZAR 750
5. Polystyrene Parapet 450mm by 350mm: ZAR 700 – ZAR 850
6. 450mm by 400mm Parapet: ZAR 800 – ZAR 950
7. 300mm by 300mm Expanded Polystyrene Parapet Fascia: ZAR 500 – ZAR 650
8. 420mm by 420mm Parapet Polystyrene: ZAR 650 – ZAR 800
9. 350mm by 350mm Polystyrene Parapet: ZAR 550 – ZAR 700
10. 450mm by 450mm Polystyrene Parapet: ZAR 800 – ZAR 1,000

Types of Parapet Walls

1. Plain Parapet Wall: These solid walls resemble traditional masonry walls and are commonly used with a minimum height of 900mm. Waterproofing is recommended for balconies or roof terraces to prevent water seepage.
2. Perforated Parapet Wall: Featuring openings for aesthetic appeal, these walls can be created using various materials such as precast elements or masonry.
3. Embattled Parapet Wall: Historically used for protection in castles, these thick walls have openings for defense and are mostly constructed as masonry structures.
4. Sloped Parapet Wall: Designed as extensions connecting to roofs, these walls slope in the same direction as the roof for uniformity and support.
5. Curved Parapet Wall: Continuations of sloped walls with added curves for aesthetic purposes, their extent is determined by architectural design.
6. Stepped Parapet Wall: Similar to sloped walls but with steps for visual interest, constructed using different types of moldings.

Uses of Parapet Walls

• Protection for roofs from collapse and wind damage.
• Enhancing the aesthetic appearance of the building.
• Shielding roof gardens from debris and dust.
• Providing protection for vehicles on bridges.
• Preventing falls from roofs, ensuring safety.

Advantages of Parapet Walls

• Protection for roof-installed equipment.
• Acting as a windbreaker to mitigate direct wind impact.
• Ensuring safety for occupants.
• Utilizing rooftop space effectively.

Disadvantages of Parapet Walls

• Risk of water leakage if capping is not applied properly.
• Requires expertise for construction and installation.
• Considered a relatively costly construction component.

Conclusion

Parapet walls are indispensable elements in modern construction, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits. Understanding the types, costs, and uses of parapets can help you make informed decisions when incorporating them into your South African property.

FAQ

1. What factors determine the cost of a parapet wall?

   • The cost is influenced by materials, size, location, and vendor.

2. What are the common types of parapet walls?

   • Plain, perforated, embattled, sloped, curved, and stepped parapet walls are among the most common types.

3. What are the primary uses of parapet walls?

   • Parapet walls protect roofs, enhance aesthetics, shield roof gardens, and provide safety for occupants, among other uses.