Preparing a Building for a Shielded Room: A Checklist
A point-by-point list of what to check in advance in the area where a shielded room will be installed: floor, ceiling, power, ventilation and access.
3 min readOctober 15, 2026
Two Different Construction Methods
Modular rooms are built by joining factory-made galvanized steel panels on site with bolts and conductive gaskets. In welded rooms, steel sheets are joined on site with continuous welds to form a seamless metal shell.
Both methods deliver high shielding when done right. What makes the difference is the target performance level, the chance the room will be moved during its life and the conditions of the building where it is installed.
Advantages of a Modular Room
Modular panels can be carried through standard doors, are assembled without dust or sparks, and installation is quick. This ability to work in an existing, occupied building is decisive in most projects.
The room can be dismantled and moved elsewhere when needed, or enlarged by adding panels. For most cyber security, EMC and laboratory applications, values of 100 dB and above are easily achieved with modular construction.
Where Welded Rooms Fit
Welded rooms may be preferred when very high shielding is targeted at very high frequencies, or in long-life, permanent facilities such as EMP protection. A continuous weld seam removes the leakage risk from joints.
But welding takes a long time on site and requires ventilation and fire precautions. The room can't be moved later and changes are difficult. Verifying weld quality at every point also takes separate measurement effort.
How to Decide
First the target dB value and frequency range are clarified. Then the building's condition, the installation schedule and the room's chance of being moved in future are assessed. In most projects these questions point to modular construction.
For special cases such as EMP/HEMP protected rooms, hybrid solutions combining both methods are also possible. During the survey we recommend the right construction method for your project with our reasoning.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a modular room last?
With proper maintenance it can be used for decades. What really determines its life isn't the panels but regular maintenance of the door and gaskets.
Is a welded room more expensive?
Usually yes, due to on-site labor and time. The difference varies with room size and project conditions.
Can a door be added to a modular room later?
Yes. A panel can be replaced to add a new door or penetration; the measurement is repeated after the change.
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