U-STOR Self Storage

Additional Info

Award Winner : Wilmot Modular Structures, Inc.

Architectural Excellence : The building is a 42’x60’ climate controlled self storage facility. It was important that it blend in with the existing facilities on site so the exterior has stucco with site-installed stone and a 5:12 roof pitch. All colors blend in with the surrounding buildings. The interior layout houses individual self storage spaces and an office for the facility manager. There are sliding by-pass double pane insulated windows in the office area only. Vinyl tile is throughout the building. Interior walls have vinyl gypsum in the office and FRP panel in conjunction with ¾” BC painted plywood in storage areas.

Cost Energy Effectiveness : The biggest cost savings to the operator of this facility is that he chose modular construction. It took 6 weeks to complete as compared to the quoted 6 months for a stick building done by a contractor. Since monthly revenue for this operation is determined by the availability and accessibility of storage units to its customers, modular construction allowed them to begin generating revenue sooner. Cost savings was also realized by minimizing utility and maintenance costs with the installation of motion sensors and timers to control the length of time that lighting is used. Another energy efficient measure was taken by constructing 2x6 walls to accept an upgraded insulation package. All windows and doors were also double insulated.

Design Firm Name : SANDERS DESIGN

Occupied Date : 9/28/2007

Production Start Date : 8/24/2007

Project Location City : Nitro

Project Location State Name : WV

Technical Innovation : There were several areas where we had to consider special technical innovations. In order for the building to qualify as a “climate controlled” self storage facility, the HVAC had to be specially designed with humidistats to regulate and control the humidity levels within the storage areas. This particular facility advertises 24/7 access so the building was wired to accept a digital security system that was tied in to existing facilities on the property. An electrical system was designed with motion sensors and timers for individual storage units that allow lights in the hallway to automatically come on when a customer enters the hallway and timers control the lights within the units in case someone forgets to turn them off. The building was lowered to ground level for easy access for customers moving in with belongings. The floor loads had to be designed for 150psf to accept the heavy storage load requirements.

Total Square Feet : 2520