The rural landscape is heavily populated with metal buildings. These structures typically contain some form of metal building insulation. What’s important is whether the insulation is adequate and functioning correctly. If your metal structure doesn’t have sufficient thermal energy efficiency, any items within it, including the structure itself, are at risk. The biggest concern is the metal sheeting sweating (condensation). Moreover, you’ll experience uncomfortable interior conditions, such as increased heat and cold, since metal sheeting exaggerates outside temperatures when insulation is not installed.
The goal of this article is to delve into the effects of not adequately installing metal building insulation in your structure, as well as how selecting the proper insulation can profoundly make your metal structure a high-performance asset.
1. You will pay for Poor Insulation
Many individuals mistakenly believe that metal structures do not require insulation; they often see the large support members and assume they are airtight. However, without a vapor barrier, metal buildings can lead to significant issues, as metal conducts heat and cold easily. This diminishes the effectiveness of HVAC systems unless thermally efficient insulation, like spray foam or reinforced fiberglass, is used. Proper insulation is crucial for preventing condensation, structural damage, and the growth of mold or mildew. Like they say, “you can pay now or you can pay later”.
- Constant Fluctuating Temperatures: Let’s be honest, there are only a few areas in the world that don’t experience significant temperature fluctuations. If you have an uninsulated metal building, it will heat up like a sauna in the summer and feel like a freezer in the winter. And this is not an exaggeration. It will be a miserable experience within these. Without insulation, this temperature fluctuation, which can lead to condensation, will shorten the lifespan of the structure and potentially damage materials within it.
2. How Will You Know If Your Structure Needs Upgraded Insulation
Those who have insulated their structure rarely consider the possibility that they may need additional insulation or maintenance on the current insulation they have installed. Here are six things to look for to determine whether your insulation is working correctly:
- If there is water dripping in your building, “Houston, we have a problem.”
- If you check your utility bill, and your costs have increased significantly.
- When you walk into the structure, it feels humid or muggy; that might be a sign, especially if you have decent ventilation in the structure.
- You have a problem if you see rust, mildew, or corrosion forming on structural components.
- Last, but not least, if certain areas within your metal building are uncomfortably hot or cold, no matter the season.
If you don’t see any of these signs, you’re good to go!
3. Let’s talk about Best Insulation Options for Metal Buildings
I’ve been in the insulation industry for 40 years, so I speak with authority when I say all metal building insulation types have their particular niche. Based on the building’s usage, location, and your budget, the best insulation for you will be determined. Here are the four popular insulation types for metal buildings. Take the time to research each one and evaluate their price rates.
- Spray Foam Insulation
It is undoubtedly the most energy-efficient option. It is an excellent air sealant and moisture barrier. If you prioritize air-tight performance, then this is the insulation for you. However, keep in mind that it corresponds to the highest ticket price among the listed insulation types. - Fiberglass Batt Insulation
People prefer reinforced vinyl-faced fiberglass insulation because it is easy to install and cost-effective, making it a top seller for DIY projects. If you have noticed insulation in a steel building or pole barn, it was probably some form of fiberglass batt insulation.
- Reflective Barrier Insulation
If your metal structure is located in a hot climate, reflective insulation is an excellent choice, as it reflects up to 97% of radiant heat transfer. However, if you have cold issues, it may not be the best choice. Often in these locations, customer purchase it as a supplement to their pole barn insulation or steel building. - Rigid Board Insulation
The truth is, I don’t know much about Rigid Board Insulation other than I heard it is durable and has good thermal resistance. It doesn’t install as easily as roll insulation type.
4. There are Long-Term Benefits of Insulating Your Structure
You didn’t build a steel building or pole barn as a short-term investment. Insulating will give you a return on your money. Moreover, an uninsulated structure is a pain to retrofit with insulation after the building has been installed.
- Your HVAC cost will be less with insulation.
- You will experience better comfort within the structure.
- The insulation will prevent corrosion, mold, and structural decay.
- You will increase your property value. If you have an appraisal of your structure or consider selling it, an insulated structure should return a financial benefit that exceeds the cost of the insulation. It is commonly accepted that an energy-efficient building is more attractive to buyers and tenants.
Conclusion:
You can either ignore the value of insulation or take proactive measures to improve it. We all have choices in life that we have to make. If you thought metal building insulation was a luxury, hopefully, now you think differently. If you’ve noticed increased utility costs or moisture buildup, poor insulation and thermal efficiency may be the issue. If this is the case, it will only get worse!
If you previously thought metal building insulation was a luxury, hopefully, after reading this article, you think differently. Again, if you’re noticing increased utility costs, hot or cold spaces in your structure, or moisture buildup, poor insulation is probably the issue. If this is the cost, it’s only going to get worse.
Here are four popular types of steel building insulation facings to consider for your structure.
- WMP-VR-R fiberglass facings
- A practical insulation facing most environments
- WMP-10 fiberglass facings
- Lighter and easier to install. Does quite have the same low perm rating as WMP-VR-R
- WMP-30 fiberglass facings
- Has directionally reinforced scrim facing
- WMP-50 fiberglass facings
- The strongest and most durable protective facing
