Shipping and storage containers are highly adaptable assets, providing solid solutions for storage, mobile work, and other needs. However, like other useful investments, these types of containers require proper maintenance guidelines to continue to operate at high levels and last for many years. They don´t need oil changes, as indicated in the materials provided, but being proactive is advisable, like any other type of maintenance. This guide provides a thorough maintenance plan for a shipping or storage container so that it continues to perform well for you for a long time, especially if you are looking for storage containers for sale.
How To Maintain A Sea Container For Long-Term Storage
Understanding The Foundation
Modern shipping containers are made from CORTEN steel, which has become known for its ability to resist corrosion. Because the CORTEN steel is coated with high-quality primer and paint materials, it will primarily slow, rather than stop, corrosion. While CORTEN steel is designed to withstand rust, conditions that lead to rust formation can arise from dented, scratched, or high-salt water exposure. Regular inspections of the container will allow you to detect and treat early rust formation before larger rust develops.
Rust Treatment
Rust remediation on a shipping container is similar to rust remediation on a vehicle. When you discover rust developing on a shipping container, you will want to mechanically grind the area down to essentially bare metal. Make sure to clean everything well with rubbing alcohol or a brake cleaner before priming and painting. If your shipping container has advanced rust, you may also choose to cut out the rusty section of metal (assuming the rusty section is not load-bearing) and weld in replacement metal. As always, you will want to prime and paint the area to seal it. This may make the shipping container structurally sound and make sure prolong the corrosion of the cargo container.
Condensation Control
Water accumulation inside a container can lead to water damage and mould. If you find that there is condensation after regular use, take care of it right away. The best way to deal with condensation is to increase airflow within the container. Most containers come with OEM vents, but putting in larger vents can also help with airflow, especially if you are in humid air. This will stop moisture from condensing on the walls of the container and help protect items stored in the container.
Site Preparation
The site where you place your container is critical to its longevity. If the surface is uneven, over time, it will cause the body of the container to bow. This is especially true for a 40-foot container, in which the mid-part of the container is more susceptible to structural deformation. Warping can also occur in the doors on the end walls, causing the doors to be difficult to open and close. Always place your container on a flat, level surface to prevent this issue.
Roof Maintenance
Keep anything heavy off the roof of the container, as it can cause the roof to bow. Heavy snow may also occur during the winter months. If you live in an area with significant accumulation of snow, you should try to remove snow off of the roof regularly.
Annual Inspection and Lubrication
Perform an annual inspection to verify the general condition of your container. During this inspection, lubricate all of the door hinges to prevent squeaking and to allow the doors to open and close properly. Additionally, check the rubber seals around the doors to see if they are worn out, and replace them with new seals if they are in bad shape to maintain a proper seal and to prevent water intrusion.
Final Note: Proactive Care for Longevity
If you practice these maintenance protocols, you will likely greatly extend the lifespan of your shipping or storage container, ensuring that it remains a valuable and dependable asset for you. Whether you are looking at storage containers for sale or already have one, proactive care is worth taking.
