Metal buildings are used across a wide range of industrial and commercial industries because of their durability and versatility.
But metal buildings are still susceptible to the weather outside, and heavy rain can cause moisture to seep into the building’s insulation. When this happens, many building owners wonder if the insulation needs to be replaced.
In this blog, the insulation pros at Installed Building Products of Tampa offer effective steps to protect your building and insulation from water damage and explain what to do if your insulation gets wet
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What Happens When Insulation Gets Wet
Insulation is designed to provide protection when dry. So when insulation is moist or gets soaked, the R-value decreases because water is a better conductor than air.
But, each type of insulation reacts differently. For example, fiberglass insulation will become compressed and conduct heat better because the air is displaced by water.
Cellulose insulation will break down and degrade, and the longer it takes to dry, the more likely mold will grow. And, while high-density closed-cell spray foam is waterproof and won’t be affected, open-cell spray foam must be dried quickly to prevent mold/mildew growth.
The most common type of insulation for metal buildings is vinyl insulation, which holds up better against moisture than fiberglass or cellulose and is easy to waterproof. If your metal building isn’t insulated with vinyl, we recommend adding some.
Clean Water
Clean water is the most common type of problem and often occurs because of leaks in the structure. The moisture comes from rain, ice or snow. In most cases, insulation affected by clean water can be saved and won’t require replacement.
As the water evaporates, the insulation will regain its ability to insulate the structure. And, with insulation like fiberglass, the insulation won’t absorb the water, meaning there will be no structural change to the insulation.
However, this process must occur quickly, otherwise, the insulation can become saturated with mold/mildew, requiring replacement.
Dirty or Contaminated Water
Things are a bit different when the insulation is damaged by dirty or contaminated water.
For instance, from a flood or broken sewer line, or insulation near the ground that becomes contaminated with dirt, mud, oil, etc. Flood waters, ground contact and sewer line breaks can deposit all manner of nasty substances into your insulation.
The exposure will reduce the insulation’s R-value and create conditions for mold and mildew growth and bacterial growth. This will cause noxious odors, attract pests and create generally unpleasant and potentially toxic conditions.
Any insulation damaged by contaminated or dirty water should be removed and replaced, regardless of how long or significant the exposure is.
Keeping Your Metal Building Insulation Dry
Prevention is the most cost-effective strategy when it comes to your insulation. Preventing moisture exposure with the use of vapor barriers and other strategies is always best.
We recommend making sure that all insulation is off the ground, and we strongly encourage our clients to regularly inspect their metal buildings for signs of leaks, corrosion, missing rivets, buckling, etc., that can allow moisture to penetrate the structure.
Choose IBP of Tampa for Metal Building Insulation Services in Florida
At IBP of Tampa, our metal building insulation services are customized to meet your needs. We offer a broad range of solutions to insulate buildings used for commercial, agricultural, industrial or manufacturing purposes.
Whether you need us to insulate one building or 100, we have the skills, expertise and capacity to effectively deliver the solutions your business needs. We’ll help you determine the most cost-effective, durable solution for your needs and desired protection.
Call IBP of Tampa at (813) 280-5007 to learn more about the insulation products we recommend in Florida and schedule an appointment.
