British weather is not traditionally known for being extreme, but we are increasingly seeing high winds, heavy rain and, on occasion, heavy snowfall. Here’s how we ensure our temporary warehouses protect what you need to store or do within them.
Temporary structures are often regarded as lightweight and easy to construct; that’s not always the case anymore. Modern designs have evolved significantly and incorporate a wide range of engineering features enabling them to perform reliably in challenging conditions.
Structural integrity
One of the key factors that strengthens a temporary warehouse is the frame itself. We use aluminium and galvanised steel, not only because they are corrosion-resistant, but also because they offer high levels of structural integrity without adding unnecessary weight. In particular, galvanised steel provides exceptional resistance to high winds and is typically used for the base plates and anchoring points. At the design stage, our structural engineers also calculate the wind and snow loading for a specific geographical area, ensuring that the warehouse meets or exceeds local standards. You can see more details here.
Anchoring to the ground
Anchoring systems are equally important. A warehouse erected on concrete can be bolted directly into the existing slab, providing a very secure connection to the ground just like a permanent structure. These anchors are designed to resist uplift forces, which are critical during periods of high wind. For sites without a concrete base, ground anchors can be used to achieve the same level of stability. The steel pins we use for this are a minimum of 1m long.
Tensioned roof structure
The roof structure plays a particularly important role in resisting both wind and snow loading. Our roof structures consist of a highly flexible, robust and durable technical fabric coated in white PVC. The inner sub-roof lining comprises white translucent material to aid insulation and protection from condensation drip. Both are fireproofed.
We use bracing extensively throughout the internal structure and is an essential element of any wind-resistant design. Cross-braces made from high tensile steel are fitted diagonally between columns and roof members to distribute wind loads throughout the framework. These bracing systems ensure that the forces acting on any one part of the building are spread evenly and safely through the structure, rather than being concentrated in a vulnerable area.
Our warehouse roof structures are designed to support a minimum snowload of 75kg per square metre.
The Walls
The same high tensile bracing system used in the roof sections is replicated in sections of the wall. Walling systems also strengthen the building envelope. Some temporary warehouse providers will use soft PVC but this does little to strengthen the overall structure and protect what you are storing. We clad our walls with trapezoidal steel panels. Each wall panel is made to measure and fits firmly into specially fashioned runners in the frame. The panels are riveted together and are further reinforced by the fitting of steel centre posts.
These rigid systems have much better resistance to lateral wind pressure and help to increase the overall stability of the structure. Insulated walls may also be fitted if required to improve thermal performance. not only improve thermal performance.
Operational practices
Operational practices can further strengthen resilience and protect you from the impact of bad weather. For example, ensuring that goods access gates and personnel doors are kept closed when not in use helps to maintain internal pressure and prevent wind from entering the building. Where possible, siting the warehouse in a sheltered position, away from prevailing winds, can also play a significant role in reducing exposure and improving durability.
Whilst described as temporary, many of our warehouses can be in place for many years. Ensuring they protect you from the inclement weather the UK can experience is good for both of us.
- Your stock and people are protected
- We don’t incur additional costs for damaged buildings or stock
Our aim is always to provide safe and trusted protection for stock, equipment, and staff even during the most severe winter weather events.