Steel buildings are quickly getting more popular for many good reasons. One of its main benefits is versatility. Whether you own a barndominium or metal garage, you can add your flair through accessories and special features like insulation. In the past years, insulation has been treated as an afterthought. Not a lot of people consider it a requirement due to its cost.
However, insulating your metal building is beneficial. It prevents moisture formation and protects whatever is stored inside. When you insulate your steel structure, you stop condensation from forming inside. In this guide, we will discuss the benefits of insulation and the most popular ways to insulate your metal building:
Benefits of Metal Building Insulation
When you install the right insulation system in your steel structure, you help stabilize the temperature inside your building. This is very important if you live in an area where temperature fluctuations happen. The insulation will help reduce the heat flow into and out of your structure. Having good insulation means your HVAC system can control the interior building temperature easily.
Moreover, insulation helps reduce thermal bridging that creates heat loss and condensation. When you eliminate moisture transmission, you can prevent critical dampness problems to the walls and windows. Lastly, proper insulation absorbs sound and prevents noise from permeating.
Most Common Insulation Options
Without insulation in place, you might spend more on energy bills. Insulation also increases the long-term structural integrity and lifespan of your structure. We have rounded up the most common insulation materials for pre-engineered steel buildings:
Batt and Blanket
Standard blanket insulation comes in the form of batts or rolls. Made from mineral fiber typically of fiberglass or rock wool, this type of insulation is economical and effective. It is easy to install and retrofit. When installed properly, it provides an approved air barrier for your metal building. Since it is DIY-friendly, you can easily apply it to unfinished walls, foundations, floors, and ceilings. You can ask your metal building contractor if this option is best for your structure.
Spray Foam Insulation
Applied inside metal wall panels, spray foam insulation is effective in trapping heat and sealing the metal building. The spray solution is made of polymer and foaming agents that fill different spaces. Insulation contractors use a pressurized device to apply and distribute the spray foam properly. When the foam hardens, air and moisture can no longer pass through. This type of insulation is also beneficial in sealing the metal building from insects and pests, especially in colder climates.
Radiant Barrier Insulation
Typically consists of reflective materials, radiant barrier insulation is installed in metal building walls and roofs. You may also install it between the panels and the support beams of your structure. When installed correctly, the aluminum foil will help reduce summer heat gain and lower AC costs. This insulation is more effective in hot climates where heat gain is an issue. A radiant barrier is useful in reducing the radiant heat transfer from the roof and walls.
Bubble Insulation
As the name implies, bubble insulation is composed of polyethylene bubbles. This option is one of the best ways to insulate a metal building. Bubble insulation offers excellent R-value while reducing condensation. By blocking radiant heat transfer, it keeps moist air from coming in contact with cool air. This way, optimal temperature is maintained inside the steel structure. Since your metal building naturally transfers heat energy in and out, the bubble insulation will prevent interior condensation from happening.
Fiberglass Sheet Insulation
Not all fiberglass insulation can be applied in metal buildings. You should only use a fiberglass sheet insulation that is specially engineered to meet the unique thermal requirements for metal. Typically, this insulation is installed in exterior walls and metal roofing systems of metal buildings. Blankets of woven long-strand fiberglass are laminated on one side to a vapor-barrier facing.
When choosing fiberglass insulation, make sure it is installed properly to avoid moisture from collecting. A properly applied fiberglass insulation will control heat flow, regulate condensation, and reduce energy consumption.
Work With Our Metal Building Contractors
From insulation to metal beam fabrication, Custom Metal Buildings of Midland is keen to help you with your project. Our pre-engineered steel structures are versatile enough to be insulated. Contact us today so that we can provide you with a no-obligation estimate!