February 13, 2026
Building the Future of Cold Storage: Americold – Port Saint John, NB
When Americold announced the groundbreaking of its new cold storage facility at Port Saint John, it signaled more than just another warehouse build — it marked a strategic investment in port-connected, rail-served, high-performance temperature-controlled infrastructure.
Positioned alongside key partners including CPKC and DP World, this facility is designed to support modern food supply chains with speed, resilience, and global reach.
For projects like this, the roofing system isn’t simply a finishing trade — it is a mission-critical building envelope component that directly protects product integrity, energy performance, and long-term asset value.
Empire Roofing Corporation was proud to be selected to deliver the complete roofing assembly for this nearly 190,000 sq. ft. freezer warehouse facility.
Why Roofing Matters More in Cold Storage
Cold storage buildings are fundamentally different from standard distribution warehouses.
They operate with:
- Significant interior-to-exterior temperature differentials
- Constant vapor pressure drive
- High humidity control requirements
- Strict food safety standards
- Long design life expectations
- In freezer facilities, a poorly designed or improperly installed roof system can result in:
- Condensation accumulation within the assembly
- Insulation degradation
- Thermal loss and energy inefficiency
- Ice formation and structural risk
- Premature membrane failure
This is why cold storage roofing must be engineered as a fully integrated thermal and moisture management system — not simply a membrane on steel deck.
Project Overview: Americold – Port Saint John
Total Roof Area: ~189,900 sq. ft.
The system selected for this facility includes:
- 6 MIL polyethylene vapor barrier
- Multi-layer mechanically fastened polyisocyanurate insulation
- R-53.6 minimum thermal resistance in primary roof areas
- Cover board for system durability
- 60 Mil reinforced white TPO membrane
- Induction welded roof system design
- 26 gauge metal flashings
- Full gutter and downspout system
- Manufacturer inspection and warranty
Each element plays a specific role in long-term performance.
If you are planning a new cold storage development or evaluating an upcoming expansion, early involvement in roofing system design can significantly impact performance outcomes.
Cold storage roofing is not standard roofing — and it should never be treated that way.
Empire Roofing Corporation
Commercial & Industrial Roofing Specialists
📞 1-844-547-7663
📧 service@empireroofing.ca
🌐 www.empireroofingcorporation.com