How much more expensive is 316L than 304?
There is no fixed percentage, and any supplier who quotes one without a date is guessing. The 316L premium tracks nickel and molybdenum prices and moves with them. It is a real cost per tonne, but it is small next to replacing corroded panels on a finished facade.
What moves the number
Alloy surcharges on nickel and molybdenum, sheet thickness, finish, order quantity and delivery terms. Two quotes can differ by more than the grade differential if the finish or tolerance is different.
How to compare quotes honestly
Same grade, same thickness, same finish, same tolerance, same packing. A cheaper quote that specifies a rougher tolerance or a thinner sheet is not a cheaper grade.
The comparison that misleads
Price per sheet against price per square metre installed. Waste factor, cut-to-length supply and site labour usually outweigh the alloy difference.
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