How to Build an Energy-Efficient Warehouse in Utah

Whether you're storing inventory, housing production lines, or building a fulfillment center, today’s warehouses need to do more than just keep the weather out. They need to perform — thermally, mechanically, and financially.

If you're building in Utah, energy efficiency isn't just a nice-to-have — it's increasingly becoming a code requirement and a smart way to reduce long-term operating costs. The good news? Pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMBs) are a perfect platform to get there.

Here’s how to build an energy-efficient warehouse in Utah, from insulation to orientation.

1. Start with the Right Building Envelope

The building envelope — your walls, roof, doors, and windows — is the most important factor in warehouse energy performance. A tight envelope reduces the load on HVAC systems and keeps internal temps stable.

Use High-Performance Insulated Panels

• Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs) are a top choice for Utah warehouses. They combine structure, insulation, and finish in a single product — and they go up fast.

• R-values typically range from R-14 to R-42, depending on thickness and core material.

• IMPs also create an airtight seal, minimizing heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.

Don’t Overlook Doors and Windows

• Use high-speed roll-up doors to reduce air exchange in high-traffic areas.

• Limit windows to essential locations and use low-E glazing to cut down on solar heat gain.

2. Optimize Roof Insulation and Solar Reflectance

In Utah’s high-elevation climate, your roof takes a beating from both sun and snow. The right roofing system helps reduce energy consumption year-round.

• Use high-reflectance roof panels with white or light-colored finishes to reflect solar radiation.

• Increase insulation thickness or opt for standing seam roofs with liner systems to improve R-values while maintaining structural performance.

A well-insulated roof can drastically reduce HVAC costs in both summer and winter months — especially in warehouse facilities with high ceilings.

3. Take Advantage of Natural Light

Energy-efficient doesn’t mean dark and dreary. Use translucent wall panels or clerestory windows to bring in natural daylight while still maintaining insulation values.

When combined with LED lighting and occupancy sensors, this strategy:

• Reduces the need for artificial lighting during daytime hours

• Improves safety and visibility for workers

• Cuts down on energy usage across the board

4. Plan for Efficient HVAC and Ventilation

Most warehouse HVAC inefficiency comes from oversizing, leaky ductwork, or poor air distribution. When designing an energy-efficient warehouse:

• Right-size your HVAC systems based on insulation and expected use

• Consider direct-fired heaters, destratification fans, or make-up air units in large-volume spaces

• Use economizers or heat recovery systems to reduce fresh air conditioning loads

And if you're running a climate-controlled facility (like food storage or pharmaceuticals), make sure your mechanical system is designed around airtight zones and humidity control.

5. Site Orientation and Building Placement

Utah offers strong seasonal sun exposure — which you can either use or lose, depending on how you orient your building.

• Face long walls north/south to reduce sun exposure on shorter ends and improve daylighting

• Place offices, break rooms, or human-occupied zones on the south side to benefit from passive heating

• Design overhangs and awnings to block summer sun while allowing in winter light

These small design decisions can lead to big energy savings over the life of the building.

6. Meet or Exceed Utah’s Energy Code

Utah follows IECC 2021 for commercial construction — and enforcement is only getting stricter. Meeting or exceeding code means:

• Complying with envelope U-factors and air leakage requirements

• Verifying system efficiency for HVAC and lighting

• Documenting all performance criteria during inspection

Using design/build services like A.D. Constructors allows you to integrate code compliance from day one, not scramble to fix issues at final inspection.

Final Thought: Build Smart, Save Big

An energy-efficient warehouse doesn’t just reduce your utility bills — it creates a safer, more comfortable work environment, adds resale value, and helps your business qualify for incentives or green certifications.

At A.D. Constructors, we help Utah developers design and build warehouses that check all the boxes — from PEMB structure to panel insulation to final HVAC commissioning.

Let’s build a warehouse that works for you — and the environment.