Shipping containers are built to be incredibly durable and sturdy, but no matter how well they’re made, their useful life will come to an end (eventually). To ensure you get the most out of your investment, here are three great tips to extend the useful life of your shipping container.
Where To Store Your Containers
Depending on what kind of shipping container you have, it’s important to consider where you’re going to keep it. A 20-foot shipping container can be kept in a garage or even your backyard (though some municipalities will require that they be placed at least 10 feet from your home) but if you own a 40-foot-long model, keeping it inside is usually not an option. Containers come in many shapes and sizes so make sure that where you’re storing them is dry and structurally sound. While containers themselves are built sturdily, do yourself a favour and don’t get stuck with unnecessary repairs if something happens due to improper storage.
How to Keep Your Shipping Container Clean
While it’s important to keep your shipping container clean, it’s also important not to neglect regular maintenance. While properly cleaning your shipping container can extend its useful life, some people tend to over-clean their shipping containers and inadvertently cause damage. For example, if you use a pressure washer on your container, you could damage its paint finish. The best way to clean your container is with warm water and a mild detergent (such as soap) or bleach solution. Thoroughly rinse all surfaces after you’ve cleaned them. When using a pressure washer on a metal surface such as an outdoor deck or stairwell, apply pressure gradually in small amounts so that you don’t get too much water on one area.
Repurposing Your Shipping Container
Unless you’re using a shipping container as storage or as a piece of outdoor patio furniture, there is no reason that your steel box can’t outlive its primary purpose. There are plenty of creative people who have repurposed their shipping containers into great projects. For example, did you know you can convert your shipping container into a building? You can even turn it into an office or business space. The possibilities for reusing these unique structures are endless and practical.
To learn about shipping containers, contact the team at South West Containers today by calling (02) 9605 2444