Cold Storage – TN

Project Objectives / Challenges

Project Objectives / Challenges

• This project was driven by a facility expansion to support continued growth and increased operational capacity.
• Having partnered with PermaTherm for nearly two decades, the team entered the project with confidence and familiarity. No significant challenges were identified prior to the start of the project, as previous successful installations established a strong working relationship and proven performance.

The PermaTherm Solution

The PermaTherm Solution

• When asked why PermaTherm was chosen for this expansion, the customer said, “Great history/track record. We are familiar with the product and Permatherm is familiar with our demands.”
• The installation process went smoothly, led by an experienced installer who was well-versed in the system. When a minor issue arose after the racking was installed in the freezer, the team addressed it promptly, and PermaTherm quickly supplied replacement panels to keep the project on schedule.
• One remaining item involves ice buildup between the mechanical system and paneling, which will be resolved once the loading dock is fully acclimated. The project also highlighted opportunities for future enhancements, such as incorporating a pre-cut thermal break at the base of wall panels or utilizing a less conductive C-channel material to reduce thermal bridging and minimize long-term corrosion risk.

Results/Outcome

Results/Outcome

• As this was a new construction project, there were no direct before-and-after performance comparisons related to temperature control or energy efficiency. While some ice buildup has occurred, it is expected to be resolved once the loading dock area is fully sealed and conditioned.
• From a cost perspective, PermaTherm panels were specified from the earliest design stages, making direct cost comparisons difficult. The team continues to select PermaTherm based on long-term value, reliability, and competitive pricing.
• Overall, the experience with PermaTherm was highly positive. Keith and his team were responsive and collaborative, addressing on-site items as they arose during construction. Most importantly, the panel system supported phased construction, allowing areas to be isolated and turned over prior to Substantial Completion. This enabled the owner to maintain operations, increase productivity, and bring an additional freezer online during construction — a significant operational advantage.