Improving Dry-Storage Units with Metal Sunshade and Non-Functional Facade Vents

A mid-sized warehouse facility had dry-storage units equipped with metal sunshade panels and facade-integrated vents. While designed to provide passive ventilation and solar protection, the vents were non-functional, and the units experienced overheating during summer months. Staff reported high surface temperatures on storage walls, and HVAC systems were often triggered even during low activity periods. Inspection revealed that the integrated vents were sealed or blocked, preventing any airflow, turning the facade into a heat trap despite the presence of metal sunshade panels.

1. Problem identification

Challenges included:

• Facade-integrated vents were non-functional, leading to stagnant air in the wall cavity.

• Internal wall surface temperatures exceeded 34 °C during sunny afternoons.

• HVAC systems activated unnecessarily, increasing energy costs.

Peer-reviewed research supports the importance of airflow integration:

• “Ventilated Facades for Low-Carbon Buildings: A Review” (Processes, MDPI)

• “Controlling Naturally Ventilated Double-Skin Façade to Reduce Energy” (Energy & Buildings)

• “Opaque Ventilated Façades: Energy Performance for Different Main Walls” (ScienceDirect)

2. Retrofit strategy

The facility partnered with Jintong Perforated Metal to implement:

• Replacement of existing metal sunshade panels with corrosion-resistant aluminum panels optimized for solar angles.

• Installation of a ventilated cavity behind the sunshade panels with functional intake and exhaust vents.

• Integration of sensors and BMS-controlled dampers to allow passive airflow during favorable outdoor conditions.

• Maintenance access provided to ensure vents remain operational and unobstructed over time.

3. Implementation & Case Story

Over a six-week period:

• Weeks 1–2: Removal of old sunshade panels and blocked vents.

• Weeks 3–4: Installation of new sunshade panels and ventilated cavity framework.

• Weeks 5–6: Sensor integration, BMS setup, commissioning, and thermal verification.

Results:

• Internal wall surface temperatures dropped by ~3 °C during peak sun exposure.

• HVAC activation reduced by ~12% in the retrofitted dry-storage units.

• Employee complaints of hot storage surfaces decreased by 60%.

Internal mutual links (6 articles):

• Article 3830 – Advanced Sunshade Panel Systems

• Article 3829 – Ventilated Metal Façade Case Studies

• Article 3828 – Perforated Panel Patterns & Airflow

• Article 3826 – Ventilated Façade Solutions

• Article 3827 – Panel Design Patterns

• Article 3825 – Sunshade Panel Energy Savings

4. Importance for facility managers

Even dry-storage units can develop thermal issues if facade vents are non-functional. Retrofitting with a ventilated cavity provides:

1. Reduced thermal load on walls and storage surfaces.

2. Lower HVAC energy usage.

3. Improved storage safety and occupant comfort.

5. Design checklist

Consider:

1. Audit sunshade panels and integrated vent functionality.

2. Measure solar exposure and internal wall temperatures.

3. Design ventilated cavity depth and damper logic.

4. Select corrosion-resistant aluminum panels.

5. Provide maintenance access for sensors and vents.

6. Call to Action

If your dry-storage unit has non-functional facade vents, contact us for a free audit, ventilated cavity simulation, and retrofit plan to optimize airflow, energy efficiency, and thermal comfort.

📞 Phone: 86 180 2733 7739
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🌐 Website: perforatedmetalpanel.com

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