How to Maintain and Care for Your Shipping Container
Shipping containers are durable steel structures designed for transporting goods across oceans and various climates, yet today, their use extends far beyond this initial purpose. While initially intended as transport, they now find use in homes, offices, storage units, workshops, workshops, and regular maintenance care to keep them looking their best for years. Regardless of why or how your container may be utilized - whether for storage purposes, housing purposes, or another application altogether- this guide will walk through the necessary steps required in maintaining and caring for your shipping container.
1. Regular Inspections
First and foremost in container maintenance is conducting regular inspections. For best results, these should occur ideally twice annually, but more frequently may be needed depending on where it's situated; humid or coastal regions could increase susceptibility to corrosion, so more frequent checks may be necessary.
At each inspection, look out for signs of rust, corrosion, denting, or structural damage in the form of rusting, corrosion, or any signs of water accumulation or accumulation - particularly around corners, which tend to collect more rust or accumulation of water than others. If any issues were detected during your examination process, address them quickly to avoid further deterioration and ensure safe transportation for cargo containers.
2. Managing Rust and Corrosion
Rust is one of the primary issues faced by shipping containers operating in humid or wet environments; if left untreated, it could compromise structural integrity over time. To combat it effectively, monitor areas where water pools or accumulates, such as roof and corner structures. To effectively avoid it.
Once rust appears, taking immediate action to address it is paramount. Begin by carefully cleaning the affected area to remove dirt or debris; use a wire brush or sandpaper to scrub away rust using wire brushes or sandpaper; use a rust converter to neutralize remaining rust before applying a coat of rust-resistant primer paint to stop further rust from returning; after which regularly painting containers with high-quality marine grade paint can significantly extend their life by protecting steel from moisture damage.
3. Roof Maintenance
Roofs of shipping containers are one of the most vulnerable parts, as they're constantly exposed to elements like rain. Over time, water may pool on them and lead to corrosion or even rust formation if debris such as leaves, branches, or dirt collects there, leading to pooled pools of moisture on top. To minimize potential issues on this front, make sure debris-free roof surfaces if there's anything that might collect there and collect in pools that cause rainwater build-up on top.
If your container is on uneven terrain, water may not drain as intended and accelerate wear on its roof. To make sure everything runs smoothly and protects itself against moisture damage, ensure its surface is leveled off by installing a slight slope to help drain more effectively; additionally, you could apply a waterproof sealant over its entirety to provide further moisture resistance.
4. Door Maintenance
Shipping container doors can be a weighty affair. Rubber seals protect shipping containers by blocking water and air entry; over time, however, these seals can wear down, leading to leakage or reduced insulation levels inside. Regular inspection should be made of these seals to spot signs of wear; replace them as necessary.
Seals must be regularly maintained to function smoothly, and hinges and locking mechanisms require regular lubrication. A high-grade grease or oil should keep these moving parts well-lubricated to prevent rust from developing. Warping or misalignment in doors must be addressed immediately to maintain security within your container and an air-tight seal against potential breaches in integrity and security.
5. Floor Maintenance
Shipping container floors typically feature treated plywood flooring material that's durable and pest-resistant, yet like any flooring material; it may wear down with prolonged moisture exposure and use. When used as storage space for wet items or liquids, it could result in rotting and severe damage that requires professional repairs.
Carefully examine the floor for signs of warping, soft spots, or mold growth. If any damage occurs, replace affected sections to stop further deterioration. In more challenging environments, such as containers used in shipping yards or laboratories, apply a protective coating or install waterproof floor covers to extend their lifespan and extend service.
How Dependable Container Services Can Help You Acquire a Well-Maintained Shipping Container
Now that you understand some of the essential steps necessary for long-term care and maintenance of a shipping container, perhaps your mind turns towards finding an exceptional one to store all your goods.
Dependable Container Services has an array of well-maintained shipping containers for sale that will meet all your needs, with steel ISO shipping containers of various types and sizes to select from.
We carry both new and pre-owned shipping containers, all carefully maintained to preserve their condition and guarantee their integrity. Our pre-owned units feature quality design features to enhance safety during transport.
No matter the contents you need to store or how large or heavy they may be, we have various shipping container types that will meet all your storage needs. Let us assist you in finding one best suited to you, and let's work together to see it together!
If you prefer renting instead of purchasing, we also have many rental containers with flexible rental agreements to meet any need. Whether it is for long or short-term storage needs, we guarantee safe delivery directly to you!
For more information about our shipping containers for sale, or to learn more about how our shipping container rental process works, call Dependable Container Services at 905-275-4067 or contact us here.
