Shipping Containers for On-Site Storage: How to Weather the Storm
The weather can be quite nasty, and you want to make sure the shipping container you own or rent will be able to make it through Mother Nature’s wrath – not just in times of rough weather but through the long test of time. Wind and water are the two big things you have to worry about when it comes to what will impact your container.
Whether you use the container for storage or shipping goods, it’s wise to buy one that’s wind and water tight for the ultimate in protection.
What Does Wind and Watertight (WWT) Mean?
In a nutshell, it means these shipping containers can guard against wind and water. Shipping containers are built to withstand driving rain and high winds, as well as sunlight and snow. However, they can’t be used for shipping goods overseas, like cargo worthy containers can. WWT containers won’t have leaks or holes, but they may have patches or repairs. This is why they can’t be shipped overseas.
Why are storage containers so durable? They feature corrosion-resistant Corten steel for an extra level of protection in even the harshest of environments. They’re perfect for use as on-site storage no matter where you are located.
As part of the manufacturing process, sheets of this steel make up the sidewalls, floor and roof of the container, welded together and edges sealed to ensure WWT conditions.
Heck, shipping containers can survive without damage through earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, fires, and even tsunamis. So they are certainly built to withstand some moisture.
Difference Between Watertight and Waterproof?
While they sound the same, they’re actually quite different. A watertight container will not allow water to get in because it’s manufactured that way. If you’re transporting liquids, it will provide the reverse effect: it will hold the liquids in without leaking.
By contrast, a waterproof container has a special coating applied to it that resists water. However, water could still get in if there was enough exposure to it. A container that is watertight and not simply waterproof will prevent water from getting in, but the reverse is not true.
So, what about condensation? Will watertight containers be infiltrated by condensation when subjected to damp environments (i.e., grounds) as well as temperature fluctuations? Well, it’s certainly true that damp soil can get into your metal container and lead to condensation. This is what has led to the corrugated construction and special paint featured on most modern containers today – to prevent and reduce the instances of condensation buildup. With older watertight containers, sometimes you have to open up the doors and ventilate the unit to get rid of any accumulating condensation.
Fire-Resistant Qualities
Shipping containers can also make it through a fire pretty well. In fact, they are often converted into firefighters’ training facilities! Studies show that WWT containers are able to contain their own fire, which is smart since they’re often stacked one on top of another in a shipyard. It makes sense to make them fire proof so the damage can be contained.
Durable Floors Can Hold up to 55,000 Pounds
That’s a lot of weight! No one usually thinks too much about the container floor, but the fact is, this is the most important part, responsible for supporting extremely heavy loads of all sizes and shapes for 15 years or more – if treated well. You want your floor to be tough, so it can resist dents, dings and scratches due to items you may drop on it or scrape against frequently.
You often have a choice of:
- Original plywood or bamboo
- Steel or aluminum
- Wood vinyl planks
- Coin vinyl
- Epoxy coating
Most often, they come standard with thick pieces of marine plywood on top of a steel frame. This is often enough to give you the durability you seek with your storage container.
Shipping Containers are Great for On-Site Storage
Shipping containers, even retired ones, are built to last through the years – up to 15 years in fact. After their useful life at sea, they can serve many more years as on-site storage units with minimal maintenance. You can also add modifications to spruce it up and give it new life, such as through roll-up doors or a custom paint job.
Contact Transocean Equipment Management
Get a free quote on our new or used containers when you contact us at 910-483-7828. From new and used to specialty units and modifications, we have the right container for your needs to weather any storm.
