Winter weather can wreak havoc on construction projects, presenting major challenges for keeping projects on track. To keep construction moving in geographies that experience extremely low temperatures, snow and ice, requires building materials that perform well in colder climates. That’s where insulated metal panels shine. One of the best cold weather building materials, insulated metal panels consistently provide speed of build, high thermal performance and long-term durability in all types of weather conditions.
Speed of build
Insulated metal panels have faster build speeds compared to traditional site-built wall and roof enclosure systems. A single-component system that can be installed in all weather conditions, insulated metal panels arrive at a jobsite ready for simple, one step installation, requiring one subcontractor instead of multiple trades to attach to the structural framing.
The simplicity and speed of installation means that buildings can be dried-in more quickly and work can continue on schedule through the winter months.
High thermal performance
Insulated metal panels provide superior thermal performance with high R-values, airtightness and low thermal bridging that keep building interiors warm even in the coldest weather conditions. Engineered with a strong thermal and moisture barrier, insulated metal panels provide protection from wind, rain and moisture, maintaining a stable interior environment and ensuring building occupant comfort regardless of external weather conditions.
Long-term durability
Cold climates can be hard on building materials. Insulated metal panels are built to withstand the rigors of cold weather. Made of durable steel that does not does not break or crack in freezing temperatures, weather resistant insulated metal panels are ideal for building in cold climates.
These benefits and more are why Kingspan insulated metal panels were chosen in the construction of the Alaska Airlines maintenance and engineering hangar. The hangar, located in Anchorage, Alaska which faces harsh winters marked by an average low temperature of 13 degrees Fahrenheit and heavy snow, required building materials that performed well in the elements from start (installation) to finish (building operation). More than 72,000 square feet of Kingspan insulated metal panels were used in the construction of this project, providing a high performing building envelope that met project requirements for speed, durability, and efficiency.
Kingspan insulated metal panels used in the 2021 construction of an industrial park in Caledon, Ontario, Canada are standing up to very cold winters and heavy snowfall typical of this region. Architects selected Kingspan’s KS Shadowline panels and Accent Fin to construct two buildings in the second phase of this industrial park. These panels improved speed-of-build, allowing the building envelope to be closed before winter’s arrival. Designed with controlled environments in mind with R-values of 8 per inch when equipped with top-of-the-line QuadCore® insulation, these panels provide an energy-efficient solution for industrial park tenants and ensure building occupant comfort no matter the weather.
Cold, hot or any climate in between, insulated metal panels are the best building material for speed of build, high thermal performance and long-term durability.