Metal buildings can generate much more heating and cooling costs than other types of buildings-most notably wood framed structures. Designers and producers of metal buildings are trying to regulate metal energy loss with the use of larger studs by adding more insulation especially designed for metal buildings. Steel stud insulation, otherwise known as special batt insulation, is wider than the material commonly used with wood studs and readily available in R-8 to R-20 insulation values.

The use of steel studs diminishes the advantage of thicker walls or a higher density insulation. This is seen in the inefficiency of the addition of any R-value of insulation which is over six inches in thickness. Thicker walls also reduce the useable interior square footage of the metal building.

The use of Icynene® has been employed by more and more builders of metal buildings. Icynene® is a leading soft foam insulation and air barrier product that is gaining in popularity. It provides a total building protection envelope by providing both moisture and temperature protection. Icynene® is a water-blown insulation used to fill any open cavities, seal joints, and fill crevices. With the use of Icynene® the metal building will become more energy efficient, stabilize the indoor environment and deaden sounds within the building. There is no loss in R-value with the use of Icynene® over time. The R-value of 3.6 per inch will remain stable. There are no chemicals in the Icynene® insulation system formula that will be harmful to the ozone layer.

There is also a pour formula of Icynene® that can be used on existing older metal buildings to maximize energy efficiency without compromising existing architectural features. Icynene® fills the wall cavity and starts at the bottom of the wall cavity expanding upwards to sixty times the initial value. The pour formula does not expand outward and damage the wall integrity. The Icynene® pour fill formula has an R-value of four per inch.

Icynene® contains no HCFCs, HFAs, HFCs, or formaldehyde. Icynene® is a high quality insuation and air barrier system that works well to help mitigate the introduction od any pollens, allergens, and outdoor pollution from entering the metal building. Icynene® reduces air leakage and helps control moisture through the metal building envelope. Icynene® minimizes condensation and inhibits mold growth in the walls and ceiling.