ARTICLE
Sandwich panels have become one of the most widely used systems in industrial construction thanks to the insulation they provide, their speed of installation and their good performance outdoors. But they do not all perform the same way or serve the same purpose. Each type meets different technical requirements, and choosing the right one determines the performance of the building.
It is also common to think that the panel is chosen at the end, as if it were merely a finish, when in reality it affects fire regulations, energy efficiency, indoor comfort and the durability of the whole.
That is why it is worth taking the time to review the options available and the situations in which each one works best.
What we mean by sandwich panel and why they are not all the same
Put simply, a sandwich panel consists of two outer skins and an insulating core. This core is responsible for most of its performance.
Precisely because of this "sandwich" arrangement of materials, many panels look similar, yet their performance changes radically depending on the core material, the finish and the intended use in each project.
>> Here is more information: what sandwich panel is, what it is for and when to use it.
When an industrial or commercial building is being designed, sandwich panel almost always comes up in the conversation. It is quick to install, lightweight and performs well from day one. But before looking at colours or thicknesses, it is worth understanding how they are classified and what each type offers.
1. Types of sandwich panel by core material
The core is the heart of the panel. It defines its insulating capacity, its fire behaviour and its acoustic performance. Several types are common in industrial projects:
- Polyurethane (PUR): good thermal insulation and low weight. It is one of the most widely used for roofs and envelopes where the priority is energy efficiency and speed of installation.
- Polyisocyanurate (PIR): similar to PUR, but with better reaction to fire and greater thermal stability. It is a frequent choice in industry and logistics.
- Mineral wool (MW): excellent fire behaviour and good acoustic performance. It is used for fire compartmentation, plant rooms and environments where safety is the priority.
- Expanded polystyrene (EPS): an economical solution for less demanding projects. It offers moderate insulation and is very lightweight.
Each core meets different needs. That is why there is no "universal" panel, only the right panel for each specific situation.
2. Types of sandwich panel by outer facings and finish
The outer skins also make a difference. A ribbed sheet is not the same as a flat finish, nor is a hygienic surface the same as a standard one. These elements influence the strength and maintenance of the panel.
Options are available in pre-painted steel, galvanised steel or aluminium. Each material has a different durability and performs better or worse in aggressive environments or constant humidity. There are also specific interior finishes for the food industry or cleanrooms, where ease of cleaning is non-negotiable.
In addition, façade panels incorporate solutions that improve rigidity and allow concealed fixings, a key feature when a more refined appearance is sought for buildings visible from the outside.
3. Types of sandwich panel by application
Choosing correctly in this category avoids later problems with regulations, maintenance or indoor comfort. Where is it going to be installed and what is it for?
- Roof panel: features trapezoidal ribs to increase strength and ensure proper water run-off. Here are more options for industrial roofs.
- Façade panel: combines rigidity with a more aesthetic design, with the option of concealed fixings.
- Cold-store panel: high thermal insulation and precise control of thermal bridges for cold rooms.
- Fire compartmentation panel: uses mineral wool to meet fire resistance requirements.
- Cleanroom panel: smooth finish and materials that facilitate hygiene.
As you can see, the application determines the type of core, the thickness and the characteristics of the interior or exterior finish.
How to choose the right sandwich panel for an industrial project
Each project calls for specific performance, and skipping that analysis will cause problems in the medium term. That is why it is advisable to consider several criteria before making a decision.
One of them is the building's thermal demand. Not all buildings operate in the same temperature range, and not all activities need the same level of insulation. A thick PIR panel may be excessive in a conventional warehouse, but essential in a climate-controlled building.
Another key aspect is fire behaviour. Regulations may require sectors to be separated with mineral wool panels. Choosing another type of core would put the project's legal compliance at risk. This point is particularly relevant in industry, where requirements tend to be stricter than in other sectors.
Maintenance also matters. Some surfaces are more resistant to corrosion or wear, which is decisive in environments with humidity, chemicals or intensive handling. The right material can extend the service life of the facility without the need for frequent interventions.
Finally, it is important to consider speed of installation and the impact of the works on day-to-day activity. Sandwich panel is a fast solution, but not all types are equally easy to install, especially when they coexist with other construction systems or existing installations.
At ALTERTECNIA we work with this material in industrial and commercial projects of all kinds, assessing which option best suits the intended use of the space and each client's requirements.
If you would like to review the options for your building or explore solutions for a refurbishment or new build, contact our team and we will help you find the right panel for your project.
