Metal Building Insulation

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Learn how the right metal building insulation makes your structure energy-efficient…

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Why use Metal Building Insulation?

The most crucial factor about metal building insulation is its energy efficiency. You want a continuous, unobstructed insulation barrier and a seamless layer covering the entire structure. Proper insulation minimizes heat transfer, ensuring the interior remains comfortable despite external temperature fluctuations. As a result, occupants experience consistent warmth during winter and refreshing coolness in the summer. The immediate consequence? Decreased reliance on heating or cooling systems, leading to significant energy savings and reduced utility bills.

Insulation is critical in enhancing the performance and comfortability of metal buildings and pole barns. Whether it’s a retail store, riding arena, or industrial shop building, selecting the correct insulation is vital to the building’s efficiency. This article points out the different insulation types and their importance. Moreover, I will highlight benefits such as saving money through energy efficiency, maintaining the desired temperature, curtailing condensation, and soundproofing.

Save Money with Energy Efficiency

Let’s be pragmatic here: We’re all interested in how to save money. The proper steel building and pole barn insulation save money because of their energy efficiency, especially in metal buildings. Metal building sheeting is a highly conductive material. A cold outside climate will be as cold or colder inside a metal structure. Therefore, substantial heat loss will occur without insulation. Likewise, this same metal skin can lead to excessive heat gain within a building because the metal skin heats up and acts like a stove. Installing the proper insulation will act as a radiant, air, and condensation barrier, requiring less energy to heat or cool the building. We all want a consistent indoor temperature as well as reduced energy bills.

Maintain Desired Temperature

When you come in from a cold or a hot day, you desire a particular comfortable temperature within your structure. This is the primary reason people desire metal building insulation. Insulation directly contributes to the comfort levels inside metal buildings. Based on the R-value (measurement of the effectiveness of protecting the building), the insulation affects the exchange of heat or cold through the walls and roof. Consequently, insulation helps stabilize indoor temperature regardless of external weather conditions. This helps create and maintain the desired temperature year-round.

Curtailing Condensation

Metal building and pole barns sweat. The sweating is called condensation. Condensation is a common occurrence when specific weather conditions occur. Some refer to it as the dew point within a building envelope. It occurs when moist air inside the building interacts with the cold skin of the uninsulated metal sheets. Water droplets form. This can lead to potential damage, such as rust, mold, and mildew over time. Properly installed Insulation helps control this condensation by keeping the metal skin at a desired temperature.  Moreover, protecting the building from rust, mold, and mildew has health benefits.

Sound Dampening

Have you ever been in an uninsulated metal building or pole barn while it is raining? It can sound like a plane taking off. These buildings are known for being quite noisy, mainly when industrial machinery is operating or during heavy rain and hail storms. Sound waves quickly reverberate through metal sheeting, which can amplify noise so that it can become unbearable for occupants. Insulation serves as an effective sound-dampening agent because it absorbs sound vibrations. There are structures such as churches, schools, residents, and hospitals where noise reduction is crucial for hearing, concentration, and comfort.

In conclusion, insulation is vital to any metal building or pole barn. It provides sound dampening, curtailing condensation, and maintaining desired temperatures, and it saves money with energy efficiency. It is the one investment that pays for definitely pays for itself. Picking and installing the proper insulation correctly is one of the most important aspects of any new construction.

Now that we know that metal building insulation is effective in reducing heat flow, and condensation, and enhancing energy efficiency, let us look at the various insulation products and methods that are often selected for metal buildings and pole barns: These would include, fiberglass, reflective (radiant barrier), rigid foam, and spray foam. 

4 Popular Metal Building and Pole Barn Insulation Types

  1. Fiberglass Metal Building Insulation

Fiberglass insulation, often called “Batt” insulation, is made from fine glass fibers and is still the most popular insulation for metal buildings. It is the preferred choice because of its cost-effectiveness and thermal resistance qualities.

  • Positive Features: effective sound dampening. Factory Steel Overstock posts this steel building insulation at wholesale prices.
  • Negative Features: One needs to wear protective gear when installing due to irritation risks; R-value will reduce in time due to moisture absorption.

2. Reflective Steel Building Insulation

Reflective insulation, or radiant barrier insulation, has become one of the most popular insulation types because it effectively reflects radiant heat away from the metal building or pole barn. It is not affected by moisture, making it uniquely effective in hot or humid climates.

  • Positive Features: Our. Because it is an excellent radiant barrier, reflecting heat away, it reduces energy costs in the warm months; it is lightweight and, therefore, the most accessible insulation to install.
  • Negative Features:  Some question its effectiveness in very cold climates; it is often selected in warmer and humid locations; it needs an air gap to reach its listed R-value; therefore proper installation is key.

3. Rigid Foam Board Steel Building Insulation

One of the benefits of Rigid foam insulation is its high insulation value per inch. In layman’s terms, this means you are getting a high R-value or protection from heat or cold. It can be applied to the exterior and interior of the structure. It is made from polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, or polyurethane.

  • Positive Features:  Since it has a high R-value per inch, it requires minimal thermal bridging. In addition, it will add structural integrity to the structure. You can apply it against the interior metal members or beneath exterior cladding,
  • Negative Features: It will cost you more than most available options. For this reason, as well as the fact that it requires protective barriers for fire safety and must be cut to fit corners,Factory Steel Overstock has refrained from offering it on our site. 

4. Spray Foam Insulation

This is a reasonably popular metal building and pole barn insulation type. After all, it can seal gaps and crevices because it expands once applied. The closed-cell spray foam has a higher R-value and moisture barrier than the open-cell. Due to the expensive cost, Factory Steel Overstock has elected not to offer this insulation type.

  • Positive Features: Since it fills gaps and difficult-to-reach areas, it’s a good air and moisture barrier. In addition, it adds structural integrity and a high R-value per inch (the closed-cell version). 
  • Negative Features: This is not insulation that the average layperson can’t install. Consequently, a professional installer is required. This adds to the cost. For this reason, Factory Steel Overstock believes there are better insulation values financially. Fiberglass Insulation vs Spray Foam

Metal Building Insulation Rolls

You should make sure no matter what metal building insulation roll type you choose, it is installed correctly. The 4 points below are also important:

  • Get the R-value that is needed: The R-value measures the protection the structure gets from heat and cold. Select the appropriate R-value for the applicable climate.
  • Starting the project the right way: Make sure the area where you will install the insulation is clean so that everything fits well. If the surface you are applying your insulation is not cleaned correctly, it will affect the R-Value
  • Secure the rolls: Your insulation should be tightly attached, leaving no gaps. If you notice any gaps, seal them.
  • Periodically assess the installed insulation: All insulation is affected by time, so periodically confirm the insulation status.

Metal Building Insulation Rolls are precisely cut for the standard member spacings of metal structures. They are usually made of fiberglass or mineral wool and designed to be laid over the purlins or fitted between the steel members before the exterior sheeting is applied.

  • Positive Features: It is considered the most cost-effective insulation. It is easy to install by a layperson and often done without professional assistance. Like all insulation, it improves thermal performance and reduces condensation. No matter how large the size structure is, it is easily installed.
  • Negative Features: It has lower R-values than rigid and spray foam and can sag over time if not correctly installed. However, because of the cost-effectiveness and ease of installation, Factory Steel Overstock believes it is a better value overall than rigid or spray foam.  

Pole Barn Insulation Rolls are identical to metal building insulation rolls but are designed for the spacings of wooden pole barn structures. Like metal building insulation rolls, they are used for energy efficiency, to prevent condensation, and to control airflow.

  • Positive Features: It is easy to handle and install, designed to fit the typical spacing of pole barn framing, and effective at reducing heat transfer.
  • Negative Features: It can be bulky and has a lower R-value per inch than foam options. Again, because of its cost-effectiveness and ease of installation, Factory Steel Overstock recommends it.

Getting the correct metal building insulation rolls is key to keeping your structure cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Knowing about the different kinds of insulation types, their benefits, and how to install them correctly will save you money in the long run.

How to Choose the Correct Metal Building Insulation type 

Ultimately, there are many factors you should consider when selecting an insulation type for your metal building or pole barn—for instance, climate, the building’s use, budget, and energy efficiency goals. High R-value insulation types are preferable in colder climates, while in warmer or humid areas, one should consider reflective insulation types. When the highest- performance is required, consider rigid or spray foam; however, keep in mind that the cost will increase. The more cost-effective insulation, like fiberglass or reflective, combined is often the choice for larger projects or areas with milder climates.  Some have even chosen to combine insulation types such as fiberglass and reflective to optimize performance. 

Comparison of Vinyl-faced insulation and Vinyl-backed insulation

Vinyl-faced insulation consists of fiberglass material or mineral wool with a vinyl sheet on one side (Factory Steel Overstock offers a stronger VRR+ facing). This type of insulation serves as a vapor barrier to protect against moisture and condensation damage. Conversely, Vinyl-backed insulation, also made of fiberglass or mineral wool, has a vinyl layer on the opposite side. Though it provides protection, it isn’t a primary vapor barrier. For more about Vinyl-faced insulation and Vinyl-backed metal building insulation rolls, click

Fiberglass Steel Building Insulation

Insulation rolls

You can order Vinyl-face or unfaced steel building insulation as well as other WMP facings with our cost-plus program.

  • Roll Thickness: 2.75″, 3″, 3.5″, 4″, 6″, and 8″
  • Roll Width: 3, 4′, 5′, and 6′
  • Roll Lengths: 30′ – 100′

Reflective Metal Building Insulation (R-17)

reflective insulation 1

Our 4′ wide roll’s adhesive is attached, making the installation a breeze! Dimensions: 4’x 175′ (700 sq. ft). Thickness 5 mm.

  • Thickness: 5 MM
  • Width – 4′
  • Length -175′

Reflective Insulation (Tall Roll R17)

reflective insulation 2

This taller roll has adhesive attached to each roll. Dimensions: 5′ 2″ x 125′ (625 sq. ft). Thickness 5 mm.

  • Thickness: 5 MM
  • Width -5′ 2″
  • Length -125′

Reflective Insulation (White R15.3)

white facing insulation

If you prefer a white finished look, high R-value, with the savings of Reflective insulation, this is a perfect choice! Dimensions: 4’x 175′ (700 sq. ft). Thickness 5 mm.

  • Thickness: 5 MM
  • Width – 4′
  • Length -175′

Reflective Insulation (Black R-15)

black facing insulation

If you prefer a black finished look, high R-value, with the savings of Reflective metal building insulation, this is a perfect choice! Dimensions: 4’x 175′ (700 sq. ft). Thickness 5 mm.

  • Thickness: 5 MM
  • Width 4′
  • Length -175′

Reflective Insulation (R-22)

reflective insulation 3

This popular steel building insulation at wholesale prices is VERY easy to install and durable! Dimensions: 4’x 85.3′ (341 sq. ft). Thickness 10 mm.

  • Thickness: 10 MM
  • Width – 4′
  • Length – 85.3′

Reflective Bubble Insulation

Reflective studio

Popular Reflective Bubble Insulation with the savings, this is a perfect choice! Easy to install in your building! Dimensions: 4’x 125′ (500 sq. ft). Thickness 4 mm.

  • Thickness: 4 MM
  • Width – 4′
  • Length -125′

Reflective Bubble Insulation (White Facing)

reflective white bubble studio

If you prefer a white finished look, with the savings of Reflective Bubble metal building insulation, this is a perfect choice! Dimensions: 4’x 125′ (500 sq. ft). Thickness 4 mm.

  • Thickness: 4 MM
  • Width 4′
  • Length -125′

Foam Board Insulation

s l1600

The picture above shows foam board insulation. Despite its high R-value and versatility, this metal building insulation and pole barn may not be preferred due to its higher cost than other insulation types. It also requires precise installation to avoid thermal bridging and can be susceptible to damage during handling. Additionally, certain types may emit harmful gases or require protective barriers for fire safety. Since Factory Steel Overstock is committed to offering steel building insulation at wholesale prices, we are uncomfortable offering this insulation type.

Spray Foam Insulation

spray foam 1

The picture above shows spay foam insulation. While offering superior air sealing and high R-values, this metal building and pole barn insulation is the preferred choice for our customers due to its higher upfront costs and the need for professional installation. Since Factory Steel Overstock is committed to offering steel building and pole barn insulation at wholesale prices, we are uncomfortable offering this insulation type. In addition, concerns exist regarding its potential to release volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Mineral Wool Insulation

mineral wool

By definition, Fiberglass is considered mineral wool…sometimes a spec will call out mineral wool fiber, which could be either fiberglass or rock wool/slag wool. Mineral wool insulation (rock wool, Therma fiber, and Roxul) is an insulation type you may want to consider if paying more is not a big deal and eco-friendliness is essential. It is made from natural stone, such as basalt or diabase. This insulation product is known for its excellent insulation properties, fire resistance, and ability to soundproofing applications. Though it is considered a good insulation source, Factory Steel Overstock is not currently offering it because it costs more and is challenging to face.

“The process worked just as they said it would and at a price even lower than I was originally quoted. Hands down the best value.” – Eric Rhodes (Purchase fiberglass insulation)

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Steel Building Insulation at Wholesale Prices

Factory Steel Overstock uniquely offers steel building insulation at wholesale prices through a cost-plus program. The public can Name Their Price or Request a Wholesale Price Quote. There are no upfront costs or gimmicks. Simply a program of transparency and integrity. Start by reviewing our posted steel building insulation prices. When you are ready to buy, we will gladly present you with a price below market rates.