Cold Storage Construction
We specialize in refrigerated warehouses, food processing pharmaceutical storage, and other commercial and industrial cold storage construction. From metal buildings to custom freezers, we bring Pennsylvania the best in cold storage solutions.
Galbraith Commercial & Industrial Construction » Expertise / Services »
Cold Storage Experts
GALBRAITH has worked in cold storage construction since the 1960s. Our expertise spans food processing rooms, coolers, freezers, hardening rooms, blast freezers, distribution centers, pharmaceutical storage, poultry processing, chicken barns, and egg processing.
We bring you high value new construction, major renovations, and minor repairs, and our teams have extensive experience working with a range of materials, including old cork boxes, wood, and fiberglass insulated panels, and the latest insulated metal panels (IMPs).
At GALBRAITH, we understand that adherence to the construction details can make or break your cold storage project, and our goals is to save costly future downtime for your new facility. For reliable cold storage construction that will withstand the toughest environments, Pennsylvania trusts GALBAITH Commercial and Industrial Construction.
Contact Us for a Consultation
Quality and Experience Matter Most in Cold Storage Construction
In cold storage construction, hiring a general contractor with deep industry experience, like GALBRAITH, helps guarantee your new facility focuses on efficiency, compliance, and long-term performance.
A knowledgeable contractor understands the unique challenges of temperature-controlled environments, including insulation requirements, vapor barriers, and specialized refrigeration systems. We work hard to anticipate and prevent common issues like thermal leaks, moisture buildup, and energy inefficiencies that could lead to costly repairs or operational failures.
With expertise in regulatory compliance, GALBRAITH protects your investment, and your facility will meet FDA, USDA, and OSHA standards. As an experienced contractor, we also streamline the construction process, reducing delays and optimizing the facility for durability and energy efficiency from the start.
Maximize your budget and project value with GALBRAITH.
Learn More
Through continued education, our team stays up-to-date on the latest regulations. Medical construction is a constantly changing and highly regulated field, choose GALBRAITH as your general contractor to ensure your new facility, addition, or remodel meets all the requirements you need.
What Affects Cold Storage Construction Costs?
The cost of a cold storage facility depends on several factors, including size, temperature requirements, location, and construction materials. Facilities designed for frozen storage, which require lower temperatures, typically cost more than those for refrigerated storage due to increased insulation and more powerful refrigeration systems.
High-quality materials such as insulated metal panels, vapor barriers, and durable flooring add to the upfront investment but improve long-term efficiency. Energy-efficient features, automation, and specialized storage systems, like blast freezers or pharmaceutical-grade environments, can also drive up costs. Additionally, labor, permitting, and compliance with industry regulations impact overall expenses, making early planning and expert consultation crucial for budget control.
Owners should commit to a project delivery method such as design-build or at a minimum design assist, which engages the entire team early in the planning stage. This ensures thorough pre-construction that weighs multiple options with input from each member of the team. Given the expense of cold storage construction, having a contractor-led design-build team (in which the contractor weighs in early on with value engineering suggestions) can help control costs.
A guaranteed maximum price contract can also help manage project costs, as well as aid in fast-tracking construction. We have constructed cold storage facilities using several different methods such as metal building systems (pre-engineered metal buildings), conventional steel, rack-supported, and self-framing IMPs. As a certified Butler Builder, we utilize Kingspan Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs). Whether it’s a stand-alone freezer, box-in-box construction, warehouse conversion, or repair/replacement, we have the right solution for you.
Cold Storage Construction Frequently Asked Questions
What is cold storage construction?
What are the key factors to consider when building a cold storage facility?
- Temperature requirements – Different products need specific temperature ranges.
- Insulation – High-quality insulation reduces energy loss and maintains consistent temperatures.
- Refrigeration systems – Selecting the right cooling system impacts efficiency and operating costs.
- Building materials – Vapor barriers, insulated metal panels, and durable flooring prevent moisture infiltration.
- Regulatory compliance – Facilities must meet food safety, pharmaceutical, and industry-specific guidelines.
How much does it cost to build a cold storage facility?
How long does it take to build a cold storage warehouse?
What types of cold storage facilities exist?
Common types include:
- Refrigerated warehouses – Large-scale storage for perishable goods.
- Frozen storage – Facilities maintaining temperatures below 0°F.
- Blast freezers – Quick-freezing systems for food preservation.
- Pharmaceutical storage – Designed for vaccines, biologics, and sensitive medical products.
How do you ensure energy efficiency in a cold storage facility?
Common types include:
- Using high-performance insulation and vapor barriers to reduce energy loss.
- Installing LED lighting and energy-efficient refrigeration systems.
- Implementing automated temperature monitoring and smart controls.
- Utilizing solar panels or alternative energy sources where possible.
What permits or regulations apply to cold storage construction?
Cold storage facilities must comply with:
- Local building codes and zoning laws
- FDA and USDA regulations for food storage
- OSHA safety standards
- Energy efficiency guidelines
Can an existing warehouse be converted into a cold storage facility?
Yes, an existing warehouse can be retrofitted for cold storage, but modifications such as insulation upgrades, new refrigeration systems, and structural reinforcements may be necessary.
What is the lifespan of a cold storage facility?
With proper maintenance, a cold storage facility can last 30 to 50 years, though refrigeration systems may require updates every 10 to 20 years to maintain efficiency.
How can I choose the right contractor for cold storage construction?
Look for a contractor with:
- Proven experience in cold storage and temperature-controlled construction.
- Knowledge of energy-efficient design and regulatory requirements.
- Strong references from past cold storage projects.
- The ability to deliver turnkey solutions, from design to execution.