Shipping containers are widely regarded as some of the most secure and impenetrable boxes. While this is absolutely true, no container is immune to damage and leaking. How exactly can this happen? Are there ways to minimise the risk and treat the shipping container? Absolutely.
This blog will explore the many factors that determine a shipping container’s health and the likelihood of getting damaged and lead. After reading, you’ll have the confidence to buy a shipping container and have a solid understanding of what to look out for when the shipping container structure has been compromised.
Why Would A Shipping Container Leak?
To put it simply, a leak occurs when there is a hole in a structure. ContainerCo’s shipping containers are all made from a unique metal named Corten steel. While it is known for its exceptional durability and structural rigidity, it can still be worn out. Particularly a shipping container that has endured the harsh elements of travelling the seas of the world.
With severe moisture conditions and consistent movement from cranes, shipping containers can experience their fair share of bumps and scrapes. Unfortunately, these seemingly tiny damages can build over time to eventually grow into holes.
These holes can subsequently lead to the content getting damaged from water build-up. If holes are present in a shipping container, it’s extremely important to get it repaired before you use it for large-scale storage or shipping.
What Is Involved With Shipping Container Maintenance?
Fortunately, if there is damage, there are solutions. As with anything, the smaller the hole, the easier the fix. ContainerCo has the necessary tools on our side to repair most shipping containers. Additionally, we have an array of parts that can be purchased to replace any damaged areas of your container.
To ensure that repairs are at a minimum, maintenance is the key. We recommend that each owner inspects their shipping container every few months to ensure that everything is still in order. It’s important that even the most minor scuff or rusty patch is watched carefully.
Are Shipping Container Repairs Difficult Because Of The Steel?
Yes and no. Any adjustment to any structure will be difficult if made from steel. However, shipping containers have the added benefit of being made from thin sheets of Corten steel. Most of the time, if there’s rust, sandblasting and repainting with weather-proof paint will be sufficient enough. Although, if there is a hole in the steel, you will need to consider some more complex repairs.
Luckily, the sheets of metal allow it to be an excellent patchwork job. Severe rust that has manifested into holes will need more attention.
These cavities will need to be cut out and replaced with a new welded sheet of steel. Alternatively, a new patching method has become more common – specifically, fibreglass-reinforced polyester. Subsequent exposure to UV light will solidify the polyester into a metal-strength substance.
What Can I Do With A Shipping Container Once Repaired?
While you may wish to get back to your business as usual with your shipping container, remember the possibilities are endless. Thanks to container modifications, there are so many different avenues one can go down when wondering what to do with a shipping container.
For a comprehensive look at how a shipping container can be modified, please read ‘Container Modifications – What Are The Possibilities?’
Modifications have allowed shipping containers to revolutionise everything from pop-up buildings to tiny homes. Thanks to the range of shipping container modification options and types of containers available, ContainerCo can modify your shipping container to maximise your storage or functionality potential. From site offices, swimming pools, and pop-up bars to luxury homes – shipping containers are becoming an increasingly common feature in our world.
ContainerCo
At ContainerCo, we pride ourselves on providing an extensive range of shipping containers for hire or purchase. Our range of 10ft, 20ft and 40ft containers can be used for various purposes, including shipment, storage or construction, to name a few. Featuring more than just containers in our product range, we also sell accessories and parts for shipping containers to ensure your container can be maintained and repaired after prolonged use.
Offering specialised containers along with dry standard variations, ContainerCo’s containers include refrigerated, dangerous goods, high-ball, open-top and side-opening options. As a fully-established shipping container company, we also have the facilities to modify purchased shipping containers. In addition, our specialised team can assist you with altering containers into workspaces, cafes, tiny homes or construction site offices.
We can serve Kiwis across the country with facilities operating in Auckland, Tauranga, Christchurch, Wellington and Waikato. So next time you require a shipping container, hire or buy yours at ContainerCo today!
Contact us at 0508 732 873 or request a free online quote today!