Warehouse Insulation: How To Find The Right Type Of Insulation For Your Project
The average size of a warehouse in the United States is 184,693 square feet — which leaves lighting, heating and cooling amounts to approximately 9 kWh per square foot — certainly nothing to sneeze at!
Insulating your warehouse can help cut costs related to heating and cooling, protect your stored items and increase the worth of your structure.
Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know about warehouse insulation, including types, must-have features and the best warehouse insulation to invest in.
Looking for warehouse insulation? Get expert advice!
If your warehouse is made of metal, you know how much the outside temperature affects the indoor environment. Temperatures that are too extreme can lead to condensation and other issues, affecting the contents stored inside your warehouse.
Without insulation, you also leave your warehouse open to issues like critters, mold and mildew. Investing in warehouse insulation can help protect the inside environment, including the goods or equipment you have stored, and keep issues at bay.
Depending on the condition of the building and its use, one type of insulation or a combination of several options may be used to achieve better results.
This decision depends on the current insulation type (if any), the problems that need to be addressed and how accessible the areas are.
For example, you can use blanket insulation on the walls and opt for blown-in foam insulation for individual holes and cracks or places that are difficult to reach.
Be sure to pay attention to the R-value of each type of insulation — this shows the insulation’s ability to control heat transfer. The higher the R-value, the more effective it is at reducing heat gain and keeping the temperature in the warehouse consistent.
From a functional point of view, external insulation is recommended when it comes to warehouses because it wraps the building from the outside and seals tightly to stop air transfer and draughts.
Internal insulation can also be used on holes, cracks and floor crevices in old warehouses as well as in and around attic areas.
The combination of applying external and internal insulation ensures maximum protection of the warehouse, from factors like noise, heat, mold, mildew and more.
Warehouse design also affects the best insulation approach. Quonset hut warehouses, for example, have a continuous curved steel shell that acts as both the roof and walls. This large metal surface can experience significant radiant heat gain, rapid temperature changes, and condensation when warm, humid air contacts cooler steel.
If your warehouse has a curved Quonset-style design, see our Ultimate Quonset Hut Insulation Guide: Installation, Condensation Control & Energy Savings. It explains how to choose insulation for a Quonset hut, control condensation and radiant heat, compare insulation options, and properly install insulation across the curved steel shell.
Let’s look at the options for types of warehouse insulation.
1. Fiberglass
Fiberglass insulation is the most used insulation in a warehouse. It typically has an R-value between 2.9 and 4.3 per inch, in accordance with the density and thickness of the material.
It can be stapled when it comes in batts or blown in places with difficult access when loose-fill. In general, it is preferred for warehouse walls and ceilings.
Fiberglass insulation is composed of woven fiber stands. The fiber strands contain hundreds of small air pockets. The air pockets provide the insulation. Once exposed to moisture, the air pockets fill up with water (rather than air) and the insulation loses the ability to provide r-value.
When used in conjunction with Prodex Total, fiberglass insulation can be effective in a warehouse.
Prodex Total will keep moisture out of the fiberglass insulation. Prodex allows the fiber air pockets to remain dry. It's important that fiber air pockets remain dry. Once wet, fiberglass insulation loses r-value.
R-values Available: 13, 19, 25, 30, 36 and 38
Protect Your R
Prodex Total is the perfect complement to fiberglass metal building insulation. Here's why:
Installing Prodex Total between the fiberglass and metal sheeting, keeps the fiberglass dry; thereby, preserving the R-value of the the fiberglas over time. 
Learn how Prodex Total compares to fiberglass insulation for metal buildings or how it compares to fiberglass insulation for pole barns in our detailed side-by-side guides.
If fiberglass is used in a metal building or pole barn without adequate moisture and radiant-heat protection, condensation can lead to hidden moisture behind the facing, reduced insulation performance, and unwanted heat gain. If your warehouse is built using post-frame or pole barn construction, see our complete Metal Building Insulation Guide or Pole Barn Insulation Guide to learn how to control heat, cold, condensation, and air movement while choosing the right insulation system.
2. Spray Foam
Spray foam can be applied directly to the insulated surface, is easy and clean to install, and it expands multiple times to form a layer which seals holes, cracks and gaps. It has an R-value of 3.7 to 6.5 per inch and is recommended for use on walls, floors and corrugated surfaces like the inside of the roof.
Spray foam can be used on any surface and at any angle, and it can bond materials of different structure and texture.
3. Cellulose
Made of recycled paper or denim and treated with borax, boric acid or ammonium sulfate, cellulose insulation can be blown in roof cavities, densely packed in wall cracks as retrofit insulation or wet-sprayed on new warehouses before they are fully completed. Its R-value ranges between 3.2 and 3.7 per inch and itis typically used for warehouse walls.
4. Aerogel
Aerogel insulation is recommended for cold and refrigerated warehouses for its low thermal conductivity, hydrophobic, frost-resistant, waterproof, steamproof and anti-condensation qualities.
It comes in blankets and is thin and flexible, with an R-value between 10 and 20 per inch. It is not affected by heavy loads, it is unattractive to rodents, and it is environmentally friendly.
5. Bubble
Bubble insulation R-value is a measurement of a system. The system is composed of the insulation (two reflective foil surfaces surounding air bubbles) + an air gap on. It is typically applied to roofs, walls and floors. What's the difference between bubble insulation vs. Prodex Total.
6. Prodex
Prodex is made of closed cell foam and reinforced reflective foil. Its R-value ranges from 17 to 22, which makes it efficient against condensation, heat, cold and air.
Its installation is performed on dust-free surfaces, usually installed under rooflines to reflect heat and ensure a barrier against mold, mildew, rodents, bugs and birds.
Prodex Total stops condensation, air and heat transfer. It's R-value not affected by humidity. It installs easily. It does not provide for nesting of birds or rodents. It seals around punctures. AND it does not promote mold or mildew.
The Best Metal Warehouse Insulation Stops Condensation, Heat and Cold
The best metal warehouse insulation needs to do more than slow heat loss in winter. A metal warehouse is exposed to radiant heat, condensation, cold and air movement, so the insulation system should address all four.
Metal roofing and wall panels respond quickly to outdoor temperature changes. In summer, the sun can turn the roof into a major source of radiant heat. In colder conditions, the metal can become cold enough for moisture in the indoor air to condense against the steel.
That is why choosing insulation specifically suited for a metal warehouse is so important.
Stop Condensation in a Metal Warehouse
Condensation can become a serious problem inside an unprotected metal warehouse. When warm, moisture-laden air reaches cold metal roofing or wall panels, the surface temperature can fall below the dew point and water droplets can form.
The problem is often especially noticeable when there is a large difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures. Moisture may collect on the underside of the metal roof and eventually drip onto inventory, equipment, machinery or the warehouse floor.
Over time, uncontrolled condensation can also contribute to corrosion, mold, mildew and deterioration of building components. For a deeper look at preventing moisture problems in steel buildings, see our Metal Building Insulation Guide.
Prevent Radiant Heat From Entering the Warehouse
During summer, the metal warehouse roof is one of the most important areas to insulate because it receives intense solar exposure. Sunlight heats the metal roofing, and that heat can radiate downward into the warehouse. Without an effective radiant barrier, indoor temperatures can rise quickly, increasing the cooling load and making working and storage conditions uncomfortable.
Prodex Total combines reflective insulation with closed-cell foam to help reduce radiant heat transfer through metal roofs and walls. Its reflective surface is designed to reflect radiant energy rather than allowing that heat to radiate freely into the building.
This is particularly important in large warehouses, where even a modest reduction in heat entering through a large roof area can make a meaningful difference.
Keep Heat Inside During Cold Weather
The same highly conductive metal that becomes hot under summer sun can become extremely cold during winter. Without adequate insulation, heat from inside the warehouse transfers toward the cold metal roof and walls and escapes to the exterior. This can make the building difficult and expensive to heat while also increasing the potential for condensation on cold metal surfaces.
An effective metal warehouse insulation system helps reduce heat transfer, limit air movement and maintain more stable indoor temperatures throughout the year.
Why Prodex Total Works for Metal Warehouses
Prodex Total Insulation addresses several of the major problems found in metal warehouses with one insulation system. It combines thermal insulation, a radiant barrier and a vapor barrier while helping control condensation and air movement.
Instead of protecting only against winter cold, Prodex Total is designed to provide year-round performance:
Warm in the Winter — helps reduce heat loss through metal roofs and walls.
Cool in the Summer — reflects radiant heat before it can radiate freely into the warehouse.
Dry All the Time — helps control condensation and moisture against metal surfaces.
One solution to heat, cold and condensation — Prodex Total.
The Best Time To Insulate Your Warehouse
Warehouse insulation can be installed in old buildings or during the process of the new warehouse construction.
The first option is known as retrofitting, typically done to optimize energy bills, along with working and storing conditions.
The retrofitting process can be more expensive and time-consuming in comparison to insulating a warehouse during its construction.
Warehouse insulation can help reduce thermal movements, achieve air-sealing and stop drafts, improve condensation and temperature control and improve energy efficiency.
In some cases, new insulation can be put on top of existing insulation, providing an entirely new look and increasing lighting efficiency due to the added bright reflective foil on walls and ceiling. Depending on its type, it can be also blown into cavities where access is hindered.
Retrofitting is a complex process, so hiring a professional company can help ensure that everything is done correctly.
Must-Have Features Of The Best Warehouse Insulation
When choosing insulation for your warehouse, there are several must-have features to keep in mind. If your warehouse is metal, you may want to compare metal building insulation. Make sure your insulation:
Stops Condensation
Condensation appears when there are differences between outside and inside temperature. This leads to excessive wetness or dripping, which can be harmful both for human health and for the items and equipment within the warehouse.
Prevents Heat Transfer In And Out
Metal is known for its conductivity characteristics, which means that winter and summer in a metal building can be extreme in terms of temperature. Your insulation should help protect your warehouse from outside temperatures and maintain a desired temperature indoors.
Stops Air Transfer
Airflow is directly related to the inside temperature. It can affect the humidity in the air and also transport toxic smoke and gases in the event of a fire. Make sure the insulation you choose for your warehouse has the ability to prevent air transfer from outside.
Deadens Sound Of Rain And Hail
The sound of rain or hail on a metal warehouse roof can be significantly multiplied. Make sure your insulation acts as a sound barrier to help reduce noise from storms and other weather.
Doesn’t Support Rodents, Bugs And Birds
Rodents and bugs can cause serious damage to food, equipment and other goods stored inside your warehouse. The best insulation will offer protection from mice, birds and other critters.
Installs Easily
The best type of warehouse insulation is one that is flexible, lightweight and easy to install. Whether you’re installing it yourself or hiring professionals, your insulation should be light and easy to work with.
Functions As A Vapor Barrier
Make sure your insulation helps protect your warehouse from rain. It should act as a vapor barrier to help prevent dampness from soaking through the roof and walls causing damage.
Does Not Allow Mold And Mildew
Mold and mildew can cause serious health problems and affect the condition of items stored in your warehouse. Make sure the insulation you choose offers protection against mold and mildew to help preserve a safe and healthy environment.
Prodex: The Best Type Of Insulation For Your Warehouse
You may be familiar with fiberglass, spray foam, cellulose and other types of insulation, but have you ever heard of Prodex? Made of closed cell foam between layers of reflective foil, it has a high R-value index which stops heat transfer and beats the drastic changes of temperature levels. Prodex is effective against condensation, it stops air transfer and its vapor barrier characteristics offer protection against wetness. Rodents, bugs and birds cannot chew the foil layer and are not attracted to nest within this type of warehouse insulation. It also deadens the deafening sound of hail and rain and does not allow the growth of mold and mildew.
Choose from our Prodex palette of more than 15 types to make your warehouse safe, energy-efficient and eco-friendly!
Recommended Warehouse Insulation
5M Plus: R17
Select one of these 5M items: 48 inch, Fast Action and 72 inch. Thickness: 5mm (0.2") closed cell polyethylene foam covered on both sides with reinforced reflective foil.
WHITE 5M Plus: R15.3
Thickness: 5mm (0.2") closed cell polyethylene foam with reflective reinforced foil on one side and plastic white finish film on the other side. Ideal where white finish is preferred.
