Which temporary building solution is right for you?
Whether you need extra warehouse space, a workshop or a new production facility. A temporary building offers flexibility, without compromising on quality. When choosing a temporary building, you can opt for an insulated or non-insulated structure. In this article, we’ll break down the differences between insulated and non-insulated temporary buildings to help you make an informed decision.
Insulated
Insulated temporary buildings are designed to deliver a constant and regulated temperature inside by using insulation materials within the walls and roof. These materials help to keep the interior warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This makes the space more comfortable and energy-efficient.
Non-insulated
Non-insulated temporary buildings, on the other hand, offer all the same weather protection, durability and flexibility, just without the insulation. They are typically used for applications where temperature control is not a priority for example, industrial storage or waste processing. In our experience non-insulated buildings are ideal for non-sensitive plant, pallet and bulk material storage.
When do you need to insulate?
It’s best to insulate a temporary building if you need storage space for sensitive goods or if you have staff working inside on a regular basis. For example, if you need a temporary warehouse with pickers and packers, an insulated solution would be the best option here. Other applications where insulation would be beneficial includes production workshops, manufacturing facilities, maintenance bays and welfare buildings.
Specification options
When specifying your new temporary building, you can choose if the building is insulated or non-insulated. Insulation is mainly provided in two key areas of the building. Firstly, the walling where you can choose insulated sandwich panels. These panels are highly durable and specified with a steel coating and galvanized on both sides which provides an anti-corrosion layer.
They feature a composite core which is filled with rigid polyurethane PIR foam. This delivers enhanced thermal performance offering a good level of thermal insulation. The insulated panel provides a clean aesthetic finish with a concealed connection. Cavity insulation is available up to 120mm thickness. We find that 60mm provides the optimum balance between cost and thermal performance.
Secondly, we can insulate the roof. Starting with a simple but effective secondary thermal layer installed to the lower part of the roof that reduces thermal transmission. This consists of a Sanflex liner thermally welded onto a 650g/sqm PVC membrane. It is designed to reduce the U-Value (thermal transmittance), providing a comfortable and consistent temperature inside your building.
Another popular option to insulate a temporary building is an inflated roof option. An inflatable roof combines two layers of PVC with a wall mounted compressor system. These two layers are inflated with the quiet and efficient system that recycles outside air forming an insulated pocket of air between to prevent heat loss.
When will a non-insulated building be suitable?
A non-insulated temporary building is a great option for industrial applications such as processing and storage, material laydown areas, bulk storage, pallet storage, cross docks and industrial canopies. Industrial canopies are generally open on one side or more so insulation is not typically required. Our industrial buildings are often provided with a trapezoidal steel cladding which is galvanised and coated for durability.
This combined with a single skin, fully tensioned industrial grade PVC roof completes the specification for our non-insulated structures. To combat condensation, we can install a specialist membrane under the roof lining which channels moisture outside of the sidewall, protecting goods and equipment inside the building. It is comprised of PVC foil, reinforced with a polyester mesh.
Is there a middle ground?
When it comes to comparing insulated and non-insulated temporary buildings, the right choice ultimately depends on your specific needs. If energy efficiency, comfort, and long-term use are priorities, insulated buildings are a great investment. However, if your project is short, medium-term or budget-sensitive, a non-insulated building may be the better option.
However, there is a middle ground. Firstly, you can partially insulate the building. This could be done through insulating just the roof for example. The other option is to hire in temporary heating for the coldest periods. These options provide a good balance between initial cost while improving building performance during winter.
HVAC for temporary buildings
External HVAC systems can provide efficient temperature control within your temporary structure. With our expert partners, Flow Power Solutions, we can engineer a highly effective and sustainable solution to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Our solutions are designed to be portable; they will heat and cool as required to maintain accurate space temperatures. Generally, the units are fitted with ducting to distribute air around the building. We use the latest modelling technology to map the airflow around the building to design the very best solution to keep running costs low and performance levels at their optimum.
Find your temporary building solution
Now we’re done comparing insulated and non-insulated temporary buildings, you can choose the right solution for your business. Temporary structures can be engineered and design to provide a safe, warm and comfortable environment for specialist applications where temperature control is essential.
In comparison, if a temperature control is not required, it is simple, quick and cost effective to install a non-insulated building to give you the space you need. During the cooler winter months and warmer summer, you can hire a HVAC solution to further enhance building comfort. These options contribute to the growing appeal and flexibility of our solutions.
Our knowledgeable team are happy to provide expert advice on your options to ensure you get the very best building solution.
