At first glance, aluminum-framed temporary industrial buildings might sound like a compromise compared to traditional permanent structures. In reality, they are a durable, long-lasting, and highly economical option. These buildings can remain in place for many years, deliver exceptional strength, and offer a cost-effective solution without sacrificing quality. On top of that, they can be fully insulated—making them suitable not only for storing sensitive products but also for creating comfortable workspace areas for staff.
What is a Temporary Industrial Building?
Temporary industrial buildings are built around a strong yet lightweight frame made from extruded aluminum profiles. This design eliminates the need for internal support columns, so the open floor space can be fully utilized. Despite their relatively light structure, the frames are engineered to withstand heavy snow loads, high winds, and the overall weight of the building.
Before installation, engineers carry out structural calculations to determine the exact aluminum profile required for the specific site, building dimensions, and local weather conditions. Thanks to their modular design, these buildings can be extended in 16-foot (5-meter) sections, reaching widths of up to 100 feet (30 meters) and eave heights of up to 26 feet (8 meters). This makes them suitable for tall racking systems or even mezzanine office floors.
Because they are modular, these buildings can be erected quickly, adapted or extended later, dismantled, and even relocated—making them a flexible choice for both short-term and long-term projects.
The simplest form is an aluminum frame with a roof canopy, ideal for protecting goods and providing vehicle access. Adding walls, doors, and windows transforms it into an enclosed structure, and with insulation, it becomes a fully temperature-controlled facility.
How is Insulation Achieved?
The main areas for insulation are the walls and the roof. Across much of Europe, insulated sandwich panels are common—steel sheets filled with PU foam that provide excellent thermal performance. In the U.S. and U.K., walls are typically insulated with these panels, while roofs are often made from double-layer industrial PVC. The PVC sections are air-inflated, creating a sealed cushion of insulation that is both lightweight and easy to install.
Windows are double-glazed for greater efficiency, while climate control systems—such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning—can be integrated when required. Vehicle access doors are more challenging to insulate due to frequent use, but energy loss can be minimized through design and equipment choices.
With insulated walls and roofing, temporary buildings can house mezzanine offices or employee welfare areas that remain comfortable year-round, while storage spaces maintain stable conditions for temperature-sensitive goods.
For more details about insulated temporary buildings, contact our U.S. specialist, Leigh Middleton, at +44 7355 063543 or by email at l.middleton@hr-structures.com