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If you’re ready to build a dedicated wine cellar, start by thinking about what visual style you would like, then calculate the capacity by doubling the bottle count of your current collection. Proper construction requires a polyethylene vapor barrier on the outer side of R12 or higher insulation. Create an airtight seal on every wall, including a weather stripping system on the door.
To maintain both 55–60°F temperature and 50-70% humidity, choose a specialized wine cellar cooling system. They can be installed through-the-wall (cost effective), as a split system (noise and heat away from cellar) or ducted (entirely separate from the cellar). Don’t cut costs during the construction stage, or long-term performance will suffer. A cooling system generally costs $1,000 - $10,000 but be careful not to undersize the unit.
Wine racks are offered in a wide range of finishes and quality levels, along with elements like arches, ladders, islands and LED lighting. For a cheaper cellar, install high-capacity bin storage.
Define Your Vision and Storage Goals
WHAT STYLE CELLAR?
Before you pick up a hammer, determine the primary purpose of your cellar. Most collectors find that their passion grows faster than their storage space. Whether converting closet space or adding a 1,000 bottle cellar, start by answering the following questions:
HOW MANY BOTTLES?
Evaluate the current size of your wine collection and consider doubling that number for future growth capacity. What types of bottles do you have in your collection? Consider standard Bordeaux bottles vs. Burgundy and Champagne bottles which will need special-sized racking.
Wine Cellar Construction Tips
INSULATION
Use a minimum of R12 insulation for interior walls and higher for exterior-facing walls.
VAPOR BARRIER
Install a polyethylene moisture barrier on the "warm" side of the insulation to prevent mold and wood rot.
AIRTIGHT SEAL
Use an exterior-grade door with a high-quality weather stripping system to keep the climate controlled.
Choosing Your Cooling System
A standard air conditioner will not work for a wine cellar because it removes too much moisture and is not stable enough for maintaining your cellar (55–60°F and 50-70% humidity). Purchasing and properly installing a correctly-sized cooling unit for your cellar will save money in the long run, preventing breakdowns in performance that endanger your wine collection. There are different types of installations, including:
THROUGH-THE-WALL
Easy to install and cost effective.
SPLIT SYSTEMS
Noise and heat from the cooling unit will be removed from living spaces.
DUCTED
Remove the entire cooling system from your cellar to a remote location.
Budgeting for a Wine Cellar
CONSTRUCTION
An improperly constructed cellar and vapor barrier will lead to recurring problems with moisture, cooling and energy usage. You can save some budget on the flooring, such as using concrete for a basic storage room or installing tile, rather than lux flooring like reclaimed barrel wood or stone.
COOLING SYSTEM
Depending on the cellar, this can cost between $1,000 – $10,000. It is better to err on the side of extra cooling power, since an undersized unit will run more frequently, causing noise issues and a shorter lifespan for the cooling unit.
WINE RACKS
The "look" of the cellar depends on your personal style and the materials you choose. Traditionalists often opt for mahogany or redwood racks because of their natural resistance to moisture and rot. If you prefer a contemporary look, metal label-forward racking creates a sleek and organized display. Elaborate elements such as arches, ladders, islands and LED lighting will add to the cost. Including plenty of high-capacity bin storage will lower your expenses.
Ready to Build Your Wine Cellar?
Our expert team will answer your questions about the construction process and help you choose the best cooling system for your space. Request a Free Consultation about how to get started.