No Challenge Too Great
One of our latest projects brings us to a new cold storage facility, where our team at Southern Thermal is faced with the task of constructing a massive 192,000-square-foot freezer. This project involves unique challenges, particularly in working with large insulated metal panels, ensuring structural integrity, and maintaining the highest standards of efficiency and safety.
The Bigger They Are, the Stronger They Stand
The insulated metal panels used for this freezer stretch an impressive 67 feet in height on average—each a single panel from top to bottom—with the tallest panel reaching up to 72 feet. In most cases, when reaching this height, our team would install a double-stacked panel system. However, to meet the client’s aesthetic vision and achieve a seamless design with accent sections of gray panels, we opted for single panels spanning the entire height of the structure. Handling and installing such long panels posed logistical hurdles. From transportation to on-site maneuvering, careful planning was essential. Careful coordination among our team ensured that the panels were maneuvered without damage to the materials or surrounding property.
To manage the complexity of lifting and placing panels of this scale, we partnered with Prillaman’s Crane and Rigging, whose expertise and equipment allowed for precise, safe installation at full elevation. Their support was crucial in maintaining pace and protecting both product and personnel during one of the most technical phases of this build.
Structures That Are Safe & Sound
In order to provide long-term stability and durability in the face of environmental stress, our team needed to reinforce the walls, especially at each corner of the building. Inside, our team installed eight girts spanning from floor to ceiling, with additional reinforcement at the corners to counteract wind forces. Precise measurements were crucial for aligning the panels correctly with the building’s architectural design.
Durability Built From the Ground Up
One of the most critical factors in cold storage construction is preventing ground freezing, which can cause the concrete floor to shift or crack. To fight against this, our team incorporated an extensive underfloor insulation and heating system. Beneath the mud slab, Colonial Webb Contractors installed a glycol heating system designed to prevent frost migration into the ground. This system isn’t about heating the floor for comfort but rather maintaining stability by preventing freezing, which could lead to structural damage and complications over time.
Looking Ahead with Confidence
As this project progresses, our focus is on completing the exterior freezer walls, moving into underfloor finishing, and ultimately wrapping up the cold dock and office panel installations. Our end goal is to deliver high-quality, energy-efficient, and structurally sound thermal solutions. Our commitment to completing projects on time, within budget, and in compliance with the highest safety standards ensures that we provide the optimal solution for our clients.
Learn more about our thermal envelope solutions and how they can help your next project move forward with precision and confidence.
