Construction and Material Selection for the Envelope System of Agricultural Product Storage Sheds

Agricultural storage sheds require stable internal temperature and humidity levels and must withstand the erosive effects of rain and condensation. Galvanized sheet metal, valued for its ease of processing and rust resistance, is widely used for the roofing and wall cladding of these structures.

The base material of galvanized steel sheet is carbon steel with a hot-dip galvanized coating. This zinc layer provides cathodic protection; if the sheet sustains minor scratches, the zinc oxidizes preferentially, preventing rapid corrosion of the underlying steel. The sheets are lightweight, reducing the load on the main structural framework, and can be cut and bent to accommodate curved roof designs. When combined with insulation materials to form composite panels, they minimize heat loss, maintain stable internal conditions, and meet the requirements for preserving fresh produce.

Carbon steel plates are used for load-bearing base plates and foundation mounts within the framework, supporting the weight of the cladding. Stainless steel sheets are utilized for countertops in washing areas, where they withstand the humid conditions caused by frequent water exposure. Galvanized sheets can be uncoiled and formed into corrugated panels—either on-site or in a factory—allowing for rapid assembly and shorter construction times. As these sheds typically utilize light steel structural systems, the steel cladding components are easy to disassemble, facilitating future modifications or expansions.

During the construction phase, the thickness of the zinc coating is selected based on local precipitation and humidity levels; sheets with thicker zinc coatings are chosen for regions with high rainfall and humidity. Waterproof sealing strips are installed at panel joints to prevent rainwater infiltration and protect produce from moisture-induced mold. Panels located at ventilation openings are exposed to the outside air; however, their protective performance can be maintained through simple, periodic cleaning to remove debris.

At the end of their service life, galvanized steel cladding systems can be recycled and remelted, making them a sustainable building material. Compared to certain non-metallic cladding materials, steel sheets offer superior impact resistance, withstanding hail and external forces while reducing the risk of structural damage.