Custom Wine Cellars

As your wine collection grows, you may find yourself outgrowing your wine rack. You will probably start to have concern about the wine due to exposure to sun and varied temperature. Do you have an extra room, closet or an unused corner of the basement? It may be time to consider a custom designed wine cellar. A wine cellar can help you to protect your wine investment, while adding to the enjoyment of collecting wine.

Custom wine cellars come in a variety of sizes, locations and budget. Of course, the size of your budget will help determine the size of your cellar. Wine cellar builders will generally help you to determine where you should put your cellar and help you design it based on your specific needs. You can also have them help you design it and install it yourself.

Wine cellars are usually constructed from redwood or mahogany because they resist moisture, warping and tend to age very well. You can choose to keep the wood finish ntaural or stain them darker for a richer look.

Flooring Options
Ceramic tile is the most common flooring choice for the majority of wine cellars. Cork tile is also an option. Cork helps to prevent breakage in case you drop a bottle and also acts as flooring insulation. It is a good choice for above grade cellars.

Lighting
You will need adequate lighting since the cellar will be completely closed off to natural light. Recessed halogen lighting is good for general light. Accent lights will help give you more ambiance to the room. Flourescent backlighting makes a nice compliment to the ceiling lights.

Racking
Racks are available in a variety of configurations and sizes including diamond shaped bins, diamond shaped for individual bottles, column racks, cascading (waterfall) racks and case shelving. Shelving is sold either natural or stained to your preference.

Cooling Systems
Tempurature control is very important in keeping protecting wine. The temperature should be kept consitent. Through-wall cooling units are similar to window air conditioners and usually vent to an adjacent room, but can also vent directly outside. Split air handlers are more sophisticated (and more expensive). they are similar to central air conditoning units and sit outside, with a duct to a vent in your cellar. This option is more aesthically pleasing. Split air handler units can also heat the room for even more temperature control.

A custom built wine cellar room can add to the enjoyment of your wine collection while protecting your investment.

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