Types of Insulations for Steel Sheds
Steel sheds can amplify weather conditions to unbearable and destructive extremes if not properly insulated. On the other hand, fitting the right type of insulation will make your steel shed safer and more comfortable.
The Best Insulation for Your Steel Shed
Here are some of the leading insulations for steel sheds.
Reflective Foil
Reflective foil is a great choice for sheds that see lots of movement. If your shed is likely to endure abrasions and scratches, you need such a resilient insulation material.
Its tough skin makes it a strong contender for:
- Carports
- Hangers
- Workshops
Reflective foil is easy to install on walls and roofs because of its self-supporting nature. This versatility, cost-effectiveness, and rust resistance make the foil your go-to steel shed insulation. There are various variations in the market, known by thickness and R ratings and corresponding prices.
Although reflective foil is great for temperature moderation, it doesn’t check all the boxes when tested for noise suppression and humidity. As such, it’s a winner in arid regions such as South Victoria.
Sisalation Paper
Sisalation paper is a staple of steel shed owners, especially delivering the best performance in the West Australian weather. It’s an effective heat barrier that reflects 95% of light, making your steel shed well-conditioned and illuminated.
Humidity and water are not a problem for sisalation paper because it’s resistant, making it a wise choice for:
- Barns
- Hangers
- Carports
- Workshops
- Farm product barns
The ability of sisalation paper to keep the shed warm during winter and cool during summer makes it suitable for animal steel sheds. Whether in North Queensland’s humid weather or South Victoria’s mild summer, sisalation paper is a great pick for you. You can always buy sisalation paper from the nearest hardware shop at an affordable price.
Rigid Board
As the name implies, this insulation material is made by sticking insulation foam between two wooden boards. This is an efficient way of insulating your steel shed in any climatic region. The rigid board’s near-zero thermal conductivity makes it ideal for steel barns and field offices.
Besides rigid boards having varying performance ratings, they’re unanimous in their exterior noise-barring genius. Plus, installing rigid boards is a breeze, even if you’re a regular homeowner.
Insulated Panels
Insulated panels use the same technology as rigid boards, but the insulation foam is placed between two metal plates. Although the panel alternative comes at a higher cost, it’s undoubtedly more durable and universal.
You can use insulated panels on your:
- Carport
- Prefabricated house
- Animal and food barn
- Workshop
Insulated panels are easy to install and maintain. Besides modernizing your steel structure, steel panels reduce energy costs by providing natural temperature moderation.
Fiberglass Wool
Fiberglass roll is easy to fit onto your steel shed and is among the most affordable steel shed insulation options. Perhaps this is why it’s popular among shed owners across Australia. It’s especially suitable for steel sheds in hot and humid regions such as North Queensland.
Although fiberglass is effective in combating heat transfer, it has inherent drawbacks such as:
- Irritating the skin during installation
- Absorbs moisture
- Attracting bugs, rodents, and birds
However, doubling fiberglass with a facing can improve its protective power and look.
Why Insulation Matters
No matter the climate, insulating your steel shed will help you reduce energy costs and keep pests and molds at bay. Additionally, insulation will protect your wares from dust and rust and make routine shed cleaning easier.
