Modular Solutions, Ltd: The Experts on Prefabricated Buildings: Modular Buildings In Snow Country

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Modular Buildings In Snow Country

Tips On How To Build A Great Modular Building In Snow Country

It is that time of year when everyone starts to pull out their ski jackets and plan for the winter storms and cold weather.

There is a misconception that prefabricated or modular buildings can not be constructed to hold up to harsh winter conditions. When you have a great design team you are able to get a modular building that will keep you acclimated in the worst weather conditions.

Listed below are a few tips for consideration when planning a new modular building that will be placed in an extremely cold climate:

Insulation: Continuous insulation, with high R factors will allow the building envelope to keep your inside temperatures warmer and hold the heat in.
Roof snow load: Roof snow load in modular buildings are frequently at #60 or #80 roof snow load. Talk to your design professional and make sure your design will accommodate the heavy snow season
Mechanical Systems: Some clients are misinformed and think that they can only get those wall hung mechanical units that only have 9EER rating and use ALOT of electricity in the winter months. This is an archaic concept. Our modular buildings today have been equipped with VRF, Geothermal, Mini-splits, Package Units with high efficiency or gas heat. You will want to take your time and explore all the options, life cycle, and operational costs of the various systems out there and make an educated and informed decision.
Exposure: Site placement of your building using best practices for sun and wind exposure will help with overall cost management of heating and cooling costs.
Crawl space or slab: There are advantages and disadvantages to both, talk through the options with your design professional to get the best solution for your site.