Fall is finally here, and if you live in the Midwest, you know what comes next — icy winds, freezing nights, and the kind of cold that sneaks into every corner of an uninsulated building. Whether your building is a dedicated workshop, garage, barn, or just a storage shed, keeping it comfortable (and protecting what’s inside) comes down to choosing the right insulation and options.

At United Metal Buildings, we want you to know your options so you can make the best decision for your project — whether you use our insulation or not.

Why Insulating Your Metal Building Matters

Insulating a steel building or any building in general does more than just take the edge off in the winter. Here’s a couple reasons why it's worth considering:

• Keeps temperatures stable – Warm in winter, cooler in summer. Win, win.

• Controls condensation – No one wants rust, mold, or moisture damage.

• Improves comfort – A space you can actually use year-round.

• Lowers energy costs – If you’re heating or cooling, insulation helps keep money in your wallet and less to Comed.

If your building is strictly for equipment storage and you’re in a mild climate, insulation may not be essential. But if you’re working inside, storing valuables, or live in a place where winters dip below zero, it’s going to be one of the smartest, long-term upgrades you can make.

What is the Best Insulation for a Metal Building?

The “best” quote-on-quote insulation depends on how you’ll use your building and where you’re located. For example:

• Just using it for basic storage? A lighter option may be fine like Double-Bubble.

• Planning to heat and cool your space? You’ll need a solution that holds an R-value and prevents energy loss.

• Living in the Midwest with harsh winters and humid summers? Condensation control is a must.

At UMB, the insulation we keep on hand is Double Bubble Insulation. It’s a reflective vapor barrier that helps prevent condensation while also offering thermal performance: R-6 on walls and R-10 on ceilings. It’s simple, cost-effective, and does its job season after season. It’s best to have us install rather DIY, as we lay this down before installing the metal panels. Otherwise, you’ll be cutting rectangles to fit for days.

Insulation Options for Metal Buildings

Every project is different, and there’s more than one way to insulate a steel building. Here are the most common options you’ll hear about:

• Fiberglass Blanket Insulation – Affordable and effective, though it can settle over time and may need upkeep.

• Spray Foam Insulation – Excellent air seal and energy efficiency, but usually the most expensive route.

• Rigid Board Insulation – Sturdy foam panels, good for consistent thickness and higher R-values.

• Mineral Wool Insulation – Fire-resistant with sound-dampening qualities, though not common for basic garages or barns.

• Double Bubble Insulation – Reflective foil “bubble wrap” that acts as a vapor barrier, easy to install, and widely used in metal buildings.

Most Common Choices

Most customers narrow it down to two: fiberglass or double bubble. Fiberglass gives strong thermal performance at a low cost but can take more effort to maintain. Double bubble is simple, clean, and effective at controlling condensation while still offering an R-rating — which is why it’s our go-to for most Midwest projects.

How to Insulate a Steel Building (and What It Costs)

Insulating a steel building usually means lining the walls and roof before the metal panels go on. Costs vary depending on building size, climate, and insulation type, but most fall in the $1.00 to $3.00 per square foot range. Spray foam lands on the higher end, while double bubble is typically more affordable.

The best step is to think about how you’ll actually use the space. If it’s just a place to park a tractor, you may not need the extra investment. But if you want a year-round workshop or garage that doesn’t turn into an oven in summer or a freezer in January, insulation pays for itself in comfort and energy savings.

Ready to Get Your Building Winter-Ready?

We know Midwest weather doesn’t cut corners — and neither should your building. Our team installs Double Bubble Insulation as a smart, cost-effective solution, but we’ll always walk you through every option so you can make the call that’s right for you.

👉 Learn more about our Double Bubble Insulation. Because the best building isn’t just one that stands strong — it’s one that works for your life, in every season.