Shipping containers continue to gain popularity as people discover more of their amazing uses. Whether they are used for shipping goods across the world or for constructing a new home, these containers must always be kept in excellent shape. When left unattended, environmental elements can cause them to deteriorate and become weak over time. To avoid shelling out cash for large repairs, you should have minor damages fixed right away. Fixing them before they spread across the entire structure will help save you cash and your container.
Here are a few repair techniques that have helped storage container owners extend the lifespan of their boxes:
Container Door Problems
The doors are among the most easily damaged parts of the container. Constantly opening and closing them can wear down the hinges, and eventually cause them to snap. To prevent this from happening, the hinges must be oiled on a regular basis.
When the weight inside the container isn’t evenly distributed, there can be a shift in balance that might make it harder for you to open and close the doors. Forcing the doors open will result in scratches on the floor and even tear the hinges apart. Try to use a car jack to even out the weight, or better yet redistribute the contents so that the weight evens out so you can open both doors properly. Be smart and your storage box won’t get damaged easily.
Dealing with Rust
Another very common issue with shipping containers is their susceptibility to rust. The reason for this is that they are made mostly of steel, which has iron in it, and they are usually stacked up out in the open. metal boxes are constantly exposed to different elements that can corrode the material. If the parts of the container with rust aren’t remedied right away, the rust can spread through the entire box and cause extensive damage. The best way to minimize rust formation is to use waterproof or water-resistant paint.
However, in cases where the container already has rust, a quick and easy way to get rid of it is to use a wire brush and some vinegar. It will take a bit of elbow grease, but when you are done scrubbing, the rust will be gone. Being thorough with rust treatment will extend the life of a shipping container significantly. Try to get cleaning as soon as you see rust starting to form anywhere on the metal box.
Maintaining a Strong and Sturdy Floor
The floor of a storage container takes the bulk of the weight and damage. Most people forget to look down when inspecting their boxes, which is a big mistake. A small hole on the floor can become a large rip when left unrepaired for a long time; this can render even the best-looking shipping container useless.
The floor has two parts: the bottom layer made with steel-cross for support and the top layer made with marine-grade plywood that is usually waterproof and insect proof. It is very important to replace the top plywood layer if any damages occur. Also check on the steel-cross from time to time if there are any holes.
Addressing Roof Concerns
The roof of a shipping container is also very vulnerable. Even the smallest of dents caused by stacking the boxes can gather water and cause rusting. It’s always a good idea to check on the state of the roof periodically to be sure that it has not sustained any damage. If it has, repairing the damage should be a priority.
New shipping containers don’t stay new for long. The lifespan of a metal box depends on its purpose and uses. Whatever the case may be, it always helps to actively repair and maintain these Conex boxes. This way their use is maximized to the fullest and you get the best return on your investment.
Sources:
Common Shipping Container Repairs, Sowlv.com
Simple Painting and Rust Repair for Shipping and Storage Containers, ContainerAuction.com
Container Floors – A Close-up Look, SuperCubes.com
