Energy-Efficient Building Materials That Actually Work
Energy efficiency isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a practical way to reduce operating costs and increase long-term value for your building. In Utah, where hot summers and cold winters create wide temperature swings, choosing the right building materials can have a major impact on energy performance, comfort, and compliance with evolving building codes.
Whether you're developing a warehouse, processing facility, or agricultural building, here are the materials that consistently deliver real-world energy savings.
Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs)
Insulated metal panels top the list for good reason — they combine structure, insulation, and weather protection into a single product. With high R-values and tight seals, they help reduce thermal bridging and unwanted air exchange.
Why they work in Utah:
High insulation value per inch (often R-24+)
Fast installation reduces labor costs
Available in a range of profiles and finishes
Perform well against snow, wind, and UV exposure
For climate-controlled buildings or any structure needing long-term efficiency, IMPs are one of the most effective and scalable solutions on the market.
High-Performance Roof Systems
Your roof is one of the biggest sources of heat gain and loss. Upgrading to energy-efficient roofing systems — particularly in metal buildings — can significantly improve interior performance.
Top options include:
Cool roof coatings that reflect solar radiation
Insulated standing seam roofs with integrated vapor barriers
Thermal blocks installed between framing and panels to break thermal bridges
In Utah’s high desert climate, where solar exposure is intense and snow loads can be significant, a properly insulated and ventilated roof is essential.
LED Lighting Systems
While technically not a “building material,” lighting is one of the most common sources of energy waste — especially in large warehouses and industrial spaces.
Why LEDs matter:
Use up to 75% less energy than traditional fixtures
Generate less heat (which reduces cooling load)
Can be paired with occupancy sensors and daylight harvesting
Long lifespan reduces replacement and maintenance costs
If your building will operate on extended or 24/7 schedules, upgrading to commercial-grade LED systems pays off quickly.
Energy-Efficient Overhead Doors
For warehouses, shops, and agricultural buildings, overhead doors can be a major source of heat loss — especially when frequently opened. Consider upgrading to insulated commercial doors with weather-sealing gaskets and thermal breaks.
Features to look for:
R-rated foam-core panels
Double- or triple-seal perimeter systems
High-speed operation to reduce open times
These small improvements make a big difference when maintaining consistent interior temperatures.
Thermal Breaks and Vapor Barriers
Efficiency isn't just about insulation — it’s also about controlling air and moisture movement. Properly integrated thermal breaks and vapor barriers can prevent condensation, mold growth, and cold spots inside your structure.
In metal buildings, this often includes:
Thermal tape between girts and wall panels
Continuous vapor barriers beneath roof insulation
Proper edge detailing at foundation walls and eaves
If not done correctly, energy loss and moisture problems can offset the benefits of your insulation package.
Smart HVAC Equipment and Controls
Once the envelope is tight, HVAC becomes the next frontier for energy savings. Energy-efficient units — paired with zoning, demand-based ventilation, and programmable thermostats — can lower your operating costs dramatically.
Consider:
Variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems
High-efficiency unit heaters for industrial spaces
Packaged rooftop units with economizers
Proper equipment sizing and ducting are just as important as the unit itself. Oversized systems cycle inefficiently and wear out faster, so make sure your contractor is sizing for actual load — not guesswork.
Final Thoughts
Energy-efficient building materials aren’t just about hitting green targets — they’re about lowering costs and building smarter. In Utah’s mixed climate, where heating and cooling loads swing dramatically, thoughtful material selection can create measurable long-term savings.
At A.D. Constructors, we specialize in designing and building with performance in mind. From insulated metal panels to full building envelope strategies, we’ll help you choose the right mix of materials to make your project efficient and code-compliant from the start.