Climate-Controlled Self Storage Is Becoming More Popular
May 6th 2008
The average size of a self storage steel building is about 43,000 square feet. That is a lot of area to heat and cool, especially in an energy-efficient manner. There are a lot of people who end up costing themselves more money just because they simply do not know any better.
Regular steel self storage buildings only have a 2 inch vapor barrier that goes in the roof to prevent moisture and condensation from forming. Climate control storage buildings, on the other hand, have actual insulation to provide temperature control and better moisture control.
Some people will just put 6 inches of insulation in the roof and 3 or 4 inches in the walls. We like to recommend 6 inches in both the roof and the walls because it helps with energy efficiency. The small extra cost is worth it. It’s just like a house in that if you have less insulation than you need, your energy bill can really go higher than it needs to. Unlike in a regular mini storage, climate control self storage depends on airflow, and moving the airflow within the units.
Some folks actually run ducts into each unit, but this is rare and expensive. Self Storage buildings require 1,250 to 1,600 square feet per ton. But, in a very hot, humid area, you can save money by installing 1,750 to 2,000 square feet per ton to cool your building. You do need several returns and duct work down the hallway. Maybe put ducts in every third unit, if you want. We have even seen people do ceiling fans in the building down the hallway to increase circulation.
Also, to control your humidity you do not need to set your air conditioning for 72 degrees which causes the unit to cycle on and off with little effect on humidity. This is more expensive. Instead, run your air conditioning continuously to lower the humidity by up to 65 percent which is an ideal range for self-storage. Humidity needs to be kept below 60 percent to prevent mold and mildew.
Climate control storage costs about $1.00 to $1.50 more per square foot in terms of building costs, but it can also make you more money than regular self storage.
With a climate-controlled self storage building, you can charge more for rent in each of the units. And there are ways to build it without breaking the bank, though it depends on what area of the country you are in. Southern construction crews are generally cheaper, and if you buy your materials in the Midwest, the pricing is better per square foot. We can help in this area.
People all over America are choosing this industry as a lucrative business venture. You can read more about this on our web site.
As president of American Steel Buildings, Inc. in Tulsa, Oklahoma, I know our success is due to competitive prices and customer service. We have been in business since the 80s and have made a lot of folks happy and prosperous.
Visit us at http://www.gosteelgo.com
We specialize in the Steel Self Storage industry. We have floor plans on our site for you to get started. Our sales staff will be more than happy to assist you in this area. Or you can fill out a free quote requests and we will deliver by your choice of communication.






