For mechanical contractors, large facilities present both opportunity and complexity. Whether working on a new warehouse build, a hospital expansion, or a retrofit of an aging commercial property, you’re often responsible for ensuring the building’s mechanical systems function under less-than-ideal conditions—especially before the permanent HVAC is fully operational.
During construction and commissioning phases, moisture and temperature can become major obstacles. Excess humidity slows construction, threatens materials, and complicates testing. Cold temperatures stall productivity and compromise finishes. In facilities that are partially enclosed or under renovation, environmental control becomes a temporary but critical responsibility.
That’s where REIC Specialty’s temporary heating and moisture control solutions come into play—helping mechanical contractors bridge the gap between construction and full system commissioning.
Why Moisture & Temperature Control Matter in Large Facilities
- Protecting Building Materials and Systems
In large buildings—such as manufacturing plants, distribution centers, hospitals, and multi-story commercial properties—construction materials are particularly vulnerable to uncontrolled humidity. Wood framing, drywall, insulation, and flooring can absorb moisture, which can lead to warping, swelling, and mold growth. HVAC ducts, piping, and insulation can also corrode or degrade prematurely if left in damp conditions.
- Supporting Proper System Startup
Many mechanical systems are not designed to operate in uncontrolled environments. Commissioning chillers, boilers, or air handlers in spaces with excess humidity or unstable temperatures can lead to condensation inside ducts, filter fouling, or even control sensor errors. Temporary systems allow the environment to stabilize before permanent equipment is brought online.
- Meeting Construction Schedules
Moisture intrusion and cold weather can derail even the most carefully planned projects. Paints, adhesives, coatings, and flooring systems require precise environmental conditions for proper application and curing. Without active heating and dehumidification, projects risk costly delays, rework, or warranty issues.
- Ensuring Safety and Worker Productivity
Cold job sites impact more than just materials—they slow down people. Workers in cold, damp environments often experience fatigue, reduced dexterity, and an increased risk of accidents. Warm, dry spaces support higher productivity and a safer working environment.
Common Moisture & Heating Challenges in Large Facilities
Cold Temperatures Before HVAC Startup
In many large buildings, permanent heating systems are not operational until late in the project. This leaves months of work during the cold season, when trades are trying to install systems and finish interiors without adequate temperature control.
Moisture Entrapment After Rain Events
Large facilities—especially those with incomplete roofing or wall systems—are vulnerable to significant water intrusion. Once moisture enters, drying a vast volume requires a coordinated dehumidification strategy, not just space heaters.
Condensation Risks
When temporary heat is applied without proper dehumidification, condensation can form on surfaces, creating slip hazards, damaging finishes, and encouraging mold growth.
Uneven Conditions Across Vast Interiors
Large buildings often have varying microclimates depending on exposure, height, or construction phase. This makes environmental control more complex, requiring strategic equipment placement and careful airflow planning.
REIC Specialty Solutions for Mechanical Contractors
REIC Specialty offers a comprehensive suite of temporary heating and dehumidification systems, tailored to the specific needs of mechanical contractors working in large facilities. Our goal: to create stable, controlled environments that support installation, protect materials, and keep your projects moving forward.
Desiccant Dehumidifiers
Desiccant dehumidifiers are best for large-scale drying in cold, damp environments. They perform exceptionally well in low temperatures where traditional refrigerant systems struggle, making them ideal for warehouses, hospitals, or manufacturing facilities during construction or restoration. By removing moisture regardless of temperature, desiccant systems are invaluable for drying out buildings after rain events or maintaining stable humidity levels during HVAC installation—especially throughout the fall and winter months.
Refrigerant Dehumidifiers
Refrigerant dehumidifiers are suited for interior or semi-finished spaces where moderate drying is required. These portable, energy-efficient units are easy to deploy and are perfect for areas nearing completion, such as offices or mechanical rooms being brought online. They work well in conjunction with desiccant systems, helping to maintain optimal humidity levels and protect finishes in enclosed environments.
Industrial Heating Solutions
REIC Specialty offers indirect-fired and flameless heaters tailored to meet the specific needs of any project. Indirect-fired systems provide clean air for enclosed spaces, and flameless heaters ensure safe, emission-free performance in sensitive environments—all delivering reliable warmth, faster curing, and material protection during cold-weather construction.
Integrated Heating & Dehumidification Systems
For many large facilities, the most effective solution is a combined approach. Heating alone can increase humidity and cause condensation issues. By pairing heating with desiccant or refrigerant dehumidifiers, REIC creates a balanced environment that maintains both temperature and moisture within target ranges—ideal for flooring, coatings, ductwork, and system installations.
Best Practices for Mechanical Contractors
- Plan Environmental Control Early
Incorporate temporary heating and drying strategies during the preconstruction phase. This ensures you’re not scrambling when cold or wet conditions hit. - Size Systems Correctly
Undersized systems will struggle to keep up; oversized ones waste energy. REIC specialists calculate load requirements based on building volume, construction phase, moisture load, and expected weather conditions. - Control Airflow Strategically
Large facilities require the careful placement of heaters, ducts, and air movers to prevent temperature stratification and ensure uniform drying throughout the site. - Monitor Conditions Continuously
Use sensors and data logging to track temperature and humidity throughout the space. This not only improves performance but also provides valuable documentation for QA/QC and warranty protection. - Coordinate Across Trades
Environmental control impacts every trade on site. By collaborating with general contractors, finish trades, and facility owners, mechanical contractors can lead the way in proactive climate management.
Scenario: Stabilizing a Distribution Center Build
A mechanical contractor was tasked with bringing online HVAC systems for a 500,000 sq. ft. distribution center in the Midwest during late fall. With roofing only 60% complete and HVAC equipment not yet operational, interior framing and duct installation were at risk of moisture damage and freezing conditions.
REIC’s Approach:
REIC Specialty would deploy high-capacity desiccant dehumidifiers to remove excess moisture from the partially enclosed structure. The team would then install indirect-fired heaters, strategically ducted to maintain a stable interior temperature above freezing. Air movers would be positioned to circulate warm, dry air and prevent temperature layering in high-bay areas. Finally, real-time monitoring would be set up to track relative humidity and temperature throughout the facility.
The Result:
The contractor would maintain a stable, dry environment for the remainder of the construction schedule. Ductwork installation would proceed without condensation issues, materials would remain protected, and the project would avoid costly winter delays.
The REIC Specialty Advantage
Mechanical contractors choose REIC because we offer more than equipment—we deliver expertise, speed, and tailored solutions:
- Turnkey Service: From load calculations to setup and removal, we handle the process end-to-end.
- Proven Experience: Decades of supporting complex mechanical projects across North America.
- Scalable Equipment Fleet: From small mechanical rooms to million-square-foot distribution centers.
- 24/7 Availability: Rapid response for weather events, moisture intrusion, or sudden system failures.
- Safety & Compliance: All equipment meets industry safety standards; installations are performed by trained technicians.
Be Ready Before the Weather Hits
Large facilities amplify moisture and heating challenges—but with a proactive strategy and the right partner, these challenges become manageable. REIC Specialty collaborates with mechanical contractors to stabilize environments, protect investments, and keep schedules on track, regardless of the season.
Plan ahead for cold-weather success. Contact REIC Specialty today to discuss a tailored heating and moisture control strategy for your next project.
