Total Cost of Cold Store Panels and Insulated Cold Storage Panels

Choosing the right materials is essential when building a reliable cold storage system. Among the most diagnostic factors are cold store panels and insulated cold storage panels. These panels form the structure and thermal barrier of walk-in chillers, freezers, and cold rooms used in various sectors—from food processing and pharmaceuticals to hospitality and logistics. While performance is a top priority, understanding the total cost of these panels is crucial for budgeting, planning, and long-term operational efficiency.

This guide explores what influences the cost of cold stores and insulated panels, typical pricing in the UK, what to look out for, and tips to ensure you stay within budget without compromising on quality.

Cold store panels are prefabricated building components with a high level of thermal insulation, designed specifically to maintain temperature control within a defined space. They usually consist of two metal faces—galvanised steel or aluminium—sandwiching a layer of insulation, typically polyurethane (PU) or polyisocyanurate (PIR) foam.

Insulated cold storage panels are a broader term that includes panels used for various temperature-controlled environments. These include chilled rooms (around 0°C to 5°C), freezer rooms (as low as -40°C), and ambient storage where thermal insulation is required to maintain internal temperature against external conditions.

The thicker the insulation, the more expensive the panel. For example:

·       50mm panels (for ambient rooms) are the cheapest.

·       75–100mm panels are suitable for chill rooms and are mid-range.

·       120mm–150mm panels (used for freezers) are the most expensive due to higher insulation needs.

PU and PIR are the most common. PIR is slightly more expensive than PU but offers better fire resistance. Mineral wool panels (used where fire ratings are crucial) can be even more costly.

Larger and custom-sized panels may cost more per unit. Standard dimensions (e.g., 1m wide and 2 m- 6 m high) are more cost-effective.

Options like PVC-coated steel, stainless steel, and anti-bacterial coatings raise the cost but are often necessary for food-grade or hygienic environments.

Transporting bulky insulated panels adds to the cost, especially for long-distance or multi-floor installations. Labour charges for fitting panels also need to be factored in.

Bulk orders often come with discounts. The more you order, the cheaper the per-panel rate tends to be.

Let’s take a small cold room (3m x 3m x 2.5m) as an example. Here’s a simplified breakdown of costs:

·       Wall & ceiling panels (100mm): £2,000–£2,500

·       Floor insulation and panels: £600–£800

·       Doors (standard hinged): £400–£600

·       Fixings, sealants, trims: £300

·       Labour (2-person team, 1–2 days): £600–£1,200

·       Depending on location: £150–£400

Total Cost Estimate:

£4,050–£5,800 (excluding refrigeration unit)

Uneven floors or walls can lead to extra labour or levelling materials.

Custom shapes or non-standard panel lengths can lead to higher costs.

If your storage area requires HACCP, fire, or hygiene compliance, certified panels can come with a premium.

Improper measurement can lead to unused panels or the need for additional small orders, which are often more expensive per unit.

·       Choose Standard Sizes whenever possible to save on both material and labour.

·       Get Multiple Quotes from suppliers like ColdroomsDirect, Kingspan, and local providers.

·       Buy in Bulk if building multiple rooms or sections—bulk orders lower the per metre cost.

·       Pre-assemble Where Possible to reduce installation time and associated labour fees.

·       Use Experienced Installers—they work faster and reduce material waste.

Absolutely. While budget panels may seem attractive, they often have:

·       Shorter lifespan

·       Poorer insulation values (leading to higher energy bills)

·       Higher maintenance or replacement frequency

Investing in better-quality insulated panels pays off long-term, especially when energy efficiency and regulatory compliance are important.

The total cost of cold storage and insulated cold storage panels can range widely, from £30 per square metre for basic ambient-grade panels to £100 or more for high-spec, fire-rated, freezer-grade materials. The final cost depends on panel thickness, insulation type, design requirements, and installation factors.

Whether you’re outfitting a small walk-in chiller or a large industrial freezer unit, understanding these cost elements ensures you make informed decisions. Plan well, measure accurately, and choose trusted suppliers to keep your project efficient and budget-friendly, without compromising on performance.