How to Insulate an Existing Metal Building

Should have insulated your steel building? It is not too late to do so!

Typically installing insulation while you are building is better but it is still acceptable after your steel building has been built. Sometimes people hold off on insulation during the building process as it is another cost to account for. When building owners look back they will typically see that insulation is a crucial part of the building process for many reasons.

We are going to go into detail on all the reasons you might need insulation for your steel building now.

Do You Need Insulation?

Some factors such as the location of your building, and the use of your building may determine whether you need insulation or not. Two key benefits of insulations are saving energy/money and comfort. The only drawback of insulation is its flammability of insulation since steel buildings can not catch fire on their own. 

The right insulation system can develop a metal building’s long-term structural integrity and add years to its lifespan. Here are just some of the benefits of finding the right insulation system for your metal building:

Using the correct insulation for your building can help provide long-term integrity of your building and can account for additional years of its lifespan. A few benefits of finding the correct insulation for your steel building are listed below:

• Maintain control of your interior temperature
• Prevent heat loss and gain
• Increased sound retention
• Reduced condensation
• Acts as an air barrier with different facings options

PURPOSES & BENEFITS OF INSULATING A METAL BUILDING

When insulating you are not just helping reduce cost and use of energy in that building but also providing a more comfortable working environment within the structure. There are several ways to benefit from insulating your metal building.

STABILIZES THE BUILDING’S TEMPERATURE

When controlling the heat flow from in and out of your structure you provide a more controllable environment to keep your building cold or hot temperature.

LIMITS THE BUILDING’S MOISTURE

The main job of insulation in steel buildings is to prevent condensation that happens from the variation of temperatures from inside and outside. This still transpires to this day but it also helps reduce thermal radiation that creates heat loss and as a result condensation.

ABSORBS SOUND

Additionally, this material adds padding to your steel building keeping the noises from inside your steel building inside and keeping the noises outside on the outside. This result keeps the working environment better and also keeps your neighbors happy. Whether you are using heavy machinery or listening to loud music your neighbors will be grateful for you using insulation as a sound barrier.

Why Insulate Your Existing Metal Building?

On top of saving money, and energy and creating a comfortable environment in the building, insulation can also: prevent moisture, absorb sound, and control temperatures.

All in all, insulating your steel building will keep moisture out and prevent condensation. With that being said mildew, mold, rust, and corrosion can all be avoided.

How to Insulate an Existing Metal Building

There are various ways to insulate a metal building. Insulating an already existing metal building is a tough job, however, certain methods are easier than others. Read through the different types of insulation below to ensure you make the best decision.

There are several different ways to insulate your steel building. When insulating a steel building that is already built there are various options. Some are more cost-effective while others are easier to install. Below check out some options to see what would best fit your steel building.

Radiant Barrier Insulation

Radiant barrier insulations are one of the best options for metal structures. Having reflective insulation reverses thermal radiation and in return reduces heat transfer. This material consists of aluminum foil. Additionally, it is very easy to install. 

Step 1: Apply our double-sided tape on the top of the purlins.  Initially applying the tape will help secure insulation – and not allow it to blow in the wind.

Step 2: Roll insulation perpendicular to and over the purlins.   It would be wise to let the insulation sag 1 to 3 inches. Then seal at the seam accordingly.

Step 3: Attach your sheeting.

Fiberglass Insulation

Fiberglass insulation is blankets of woven long-strand fiberglass that are laminated on one side to a vapor-barrier facing.  Facing materials are applied to fiberglass insulation blankets to serve as a vapor retarder as well as a protected cover over the fiberglass. This insulation comes in different R-Values. R-Value is based on measuring the amount of heat loss, or the ability to retard the loss of heat flow.

Step 1: Simply place the insulation roll over the top of the roof purlins and/or wall girts. This is done before the exterior metal panels are installed.

Step 2: The fiberglass rolls are essentially sandwiched between the interior metal and the exterior sheeting.

Step 3: The vapor barrier (usually white finish) is faced toward the inside of the building, giving the building a clean finished look. We always Re-enforce this facing so that our customers have the sturdiest backing. With a single-layer application, you can achieve R-Values up to R-19, but not higher.

Step 4: The 3” tabs are to be rolled over and stapled. Orders come with double-sided tape for easy adherence to the building, and a small supply of patch tape to assist with minor tears if needed.

Radiant Barrier Insulation

Fiberglass Insulation