Things to Consider when You Build a Wine Cellar

When you build a wine cellar, you will basically have to construct it like a refrigerator. There are a few things you should know before you take on this project. This article will discuss some of the things you need to consider when you build a wine cellar.

Insulation

Having proper insulation is important when you build a wine cellar. The interior walls of the cellar need to be covered in R-11 minimum insulation. You should use R-19 minimum insulation to cover the exterior walls.

Vapors

You will also need to install vapor barriers when you build a wine cellar. These barriers are made of polyethylene plastic sheeting. These barriers protect the wall from condensation and should be used on the warm side of the wall. If you put vapor barriers on the cold side of the wall when you build a wine cellar, condensation will form on the barrier and possibly cause damage to the walls.

Floor

Depending on the type of floor you use when you build a wine cellar, you may need to place vapor barriers on the floor. If your floor is made of concrete, you will only need to use a barrier if the concrete is sealed. Other types of floors should be protected with R-19 insulation and a vapor barrier.

Wall

When you build a wine cellar, you should use redwood or other types of woods that resist mildew and rot well. You can also use green board drywall. If you use paints or stains on the wall, you need to make sure they are water-based. You should also make sure that you let the space air out thoroughly if you use the paints or stains. If not, the smells will get worse and possibly be absorbed by the wine.

Temperature

Temperature is one of the most important things you need to consider when you build a wine cellar. The temperature should be maintained between 55 and 57 degrees Fahrenheit. Therefore, you will need an appropriate cooling system when you build a wine cellar. One of the best types of cooling systems to buy is the ducted design. They can be installed in another location and send the cooled air into the wine cellar through a duct system.

These are some of the things you need to consider when you build a wine cellar. You will need to have the walls insulated properly so that the temperature in the cellar can be maintained. You may also need to insulate the floor when you build a wine cellar. Vapor barriers should be placed on the warm side of the walls to protect them from moisture damage.