Spring is upon us, and that means the weather is only going to get warmer. No one wants to be baking in their building all spring and summer long. So, the question becomes: How do prefabricated steel buildings stay cool as the temperatures rise?
There are multiple measures that can be taken to ensure your building will hold a nice, comfortable temperature all year long – even on the hottest days of the year. Some of these options are quick to implement, and some may take a little time and effort to be put into effect.
If you need to make alterations to your building, the time is now while the weather is still nice and cool. By the time those dog days of summer roll around, you’ll be way ahead of the game, and enjoying a comfortable, sweat-free climate in your prefabricated steel building.
Cool-Down Tips and Tricks:
- Air Conditioning
If your building isn’t already equipped with a good A/C system, it would be a fantastic idea to get one. Air conditioning is essential when facing extreme heat.
A small building may only need simple wall units, while larger buildings may do better with central air installed. Look into the most cost-efficient, energy-saving options for your specific building.
- Window Fans
This only applies if your building has windows. If it does, installing window fans is a great way to bring in cooler air while sucking out hot air that may be stagnating in your building.
- Cool Storage System
Cool storage systems make ice at night that is then used during the day to cool down the structure. It does this through radiators that are situated in select spots throughout the building.
This is an energy-efficient method to cool down your building but will take time to install if it is not already in place. If you choose this route, start the installation process now so it’s ready to go by the time the temperatures reach scorching levels.
- Insulation
Insulation is a key component in temperature control, no matter if you’re looking lower the temperature or heat it up. Effective insulation regulates your building’s temperature and helps to keep it stable. Used in conjunction with air conditioning your building will not only cool down, but it will stay cool.
- Cool Coating
You can choose to apply a lighter color paint to the exterior of your building. This will reflect the light of the sun rather than absorb it, which will in turn stop heat from accumulating in the walls or inside of your structure.
- Build in a Shady Spot
If you are looking to erect a new prefabricated steel building, it’s a great idea to look into placement in relation to the sun. If you can, build in a spot where your building won’t be exposed to direct sunlight throughout the entire day.
At the very least, be mindful of your window placement and avoid putting windows directly in the path of the sun. If you already have windows that invite in a lot of heat, place drapery or shades in front of these windows to protect your interior from unduly hot temperatures.
- Open Doors and Windows
If you need a way to cool down an already-baking building, consider opening the doors and windows and using large fans (if your storage will allow).
This will create a cross-breeze that will circulate hot air out. If you’re still in the planning stages of your building, you can design it so that the doors and windows are optimized for cross-ventilation.
- Maximize Landscaping
Let nature help you by selecting strategic spots to put taller trees, bushes and plants. Lush vegetation will help provide shade against harsh sunlight.
- Use Awnings
If your building doesn’t already have them, consider investing in awnings to shade your windows from direct sunlight. Combined with air conditioning, insulation, window fans or a combination of these cool-down methods, your awnings will provide coverage that will keep your building’s temperature from rising.
- Use Energy-Efficient Lighting
LED lights do not burn as hot as incandescent or fluorescent lightbulbs. The less heat emitted, the cooler your building will be. It will not do the trick all on its own, but this is an energy-efficient and cost-effective way to lower the overall temperature of your building.
It’s necessary and important to prepare your prefabricated steel building against the effects of the blazing sun. Without a cool climate, everything contained within the building – you included! – will suffer the effects of too much heat.
Most of these steps are for more than just lowering the temperature of your building, however. They also help regulate the climate overall, which means that when it comes time to switch from cooling down the place to heating it back up, you’ll be ready.
Apply these easy tips and no matter what purpose your steel building serves, you’ll be set all year long. Stay cool!
