There is not a day that goes by that…we don’t receive a call from someone who tried to save money by “parsing out” a custom wine cellar project to various trade contractors (GCs, HVAC techs, cabinet makers, finished carpenters) that have no experience or knowledge on how to successfully build a climate-controlled wine cellar. Don’t make this BIG mistake! These projects require subject matter expertise and alignment of all trades! A simple mistake or an overlooked detail can lead to huge problems with refrigerated wine storage space. If you‘re considering a custom cellar project, talk to one of our design experts - get started now!
We cannot stress enough the importance of the fundamental steps to creating a functional climate-controlled space.
- Obtain a heat load calculation with an engineer specializing in climate-controlled wine cellars and optimal storage conditions
- Source the appropriate refrigeration unit based on a) heat load calculation b) room conditions c) desired temp d) ambient temps
- Install the appropriate vapor barrier insulation to ensure temperature, humidity, and moisture control
- Utilize low moisture drywall when reconstructing
- Determine the appropriate glass conditions (single pane vs. dual pane) based on temperature goals and other factors
Trust us, the last thing you want to do is outsource this project to someone inexperienced in the art of functional wine cellars or install the incorrect refrigeration unit, and wind up with a dysfunctional wine cellar. Here are 5 steps to avoid…
- One of the biggest mistakes we’ve encountered are clients who’ve been convinced by a general contractor with no experience in building wine cellars, who claim they can do the entire job for half the price with a quicker turnaround.
Now, it’s not uncommon for someone to think that is realistic, but I can tell you right now, it is much more challenging to build what is essentially a (giant refrigerator) than you think. Again, the fundamental steps must be applied. In most cases, if not all a G.C. with no experience will cut corners and skip steps, putting your potential wine cellar in jeopardy.
Trust me it happens every day. Do not become a victim!
- Another huge mistake would be installing an inappropriate cooling unit. Do not, and I repeat… DO NOT, let anyone convince you to install an AC unit inside the cellar. An AC unit is going to completely compromise the entire functionality and integrity of the cellar. You will end up with mold in your walls, condensation, and worst of all a huge liability on your hands. The rule of thumb is to install a commercial-grade refrigeration system that is engineered for residential wine cellar applications.
- Speaking of refrigeration; before installing a refrigeration system you must size it appropriately based on the dimensions and criteria of the room. A heat load calculation will determine the right size of cooling unit for your wine cellar. It is imperative to make sure it is not under, or oversized. Installing a unit that is too powerful for the room will result in short cycles, this means that the unit cools too quickly and will not pull excess humidity from the room. It’s also going to make your cellar susceptible to mold or mildew. On the other hand, installing a unit that is too small for the room is just as detrimental. The unit is going to constantly continue to run, trying to cool the space. It will pull too much humidity from the room and can cause the corks in the bottle to shrink and allow air to travel into the wine.
- Glass conditions. This can be an overlooked factor but can make or break your cellar. When initially designing wine cellars for clients, the majority of the time we prefer to use a dual pane frame glass system. This will allow us to opt for a smaller refrigeration unit and achieve optimal wine room storage between 55 - 58 degrees. Dual pane glass is going to ensure less liability and condensation. However, single pane glass can be used if installed and sealed correctly. Ideally, single pane glass is used in lower temperature rooms, preferably basements, and one benefit is the cost is less expensive.
- Another common mistake is “parsing” the job out to different contractors. This is only going to increase your risk and liability. When building a wine cellar you are going to want “one kneck to grab” if any issues arise during the process. If you have 5 different contractors for one job it’s going to get messy quickly. You want your team on the same page in order to have fluid communication and alignment.
The moral of the story is, do not take these projects for granted and understand they can not be easily built, nor do you want to cut any corners along the way. A wine cellar is a project that must be undertaken by a professional with years of experience and knowledge in the field. Do not assume that a home builder or contractor will get the job done for half the price and in a shorter time. The fundamentals must be adhered to in order to achieve your end goals.
-California Custom Cellars