7 Tips to Protect Your Container from Rust
Oct 13th 2023
Storage containers are incredibly versatile. Not only are they used to transport goods across the sea internationally, but they can also be of use in your own backyard as storage or even on a jobsite to protect construction equipment. While these containers are strong and study, being made of steel and built to last against the elements, they are still made of metal and susceptible to rust. Small spots of rust may not seem like too much of a worry but they can continue to grow, leading to even more problems for you down the line. Keep reading to see why it’s important to treat rust when you notice it and for some simple tips to help you prevent rust and extend the useful lifespan of your storage container.
Why Is It Important To Prevent Rust?
Conex boxes, also called shipping containers, are made of steel, an alloy of iron, which means they can easily begin to rust. As soon as water encounters the metal, it can start to rust and, over time, will corrode further and disintegrate entirely. With these containers being used for such important things like international trade and storing your own possessions, letting them rust is never a good idea. If left untreated, rust can lead to serious structural damage to the container. Not only would this make the container unsafe for any use, but it can even cause damage to the items you’ve got stored within it. Even if the rust is non-structural and only surface level, this can negatively impact the way customers view your business if visible to them.
Prevent Rust with These 7 Tips
The best method of protecting your storage container is to start preventing rust from forming or growing larger in the first place. Consider these 7 easy tips to help you keep your container maintained and to prevent rust from adversely affecting your belongings.
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Not only is it smart to be wary of where you place your container for convenience’s sake, but also to help you prevent rust in the long run. Having your container placed on flat, sturdy ground will help prevent it from sinking into the ground over time, meaning less contact with the wet ground underneath. It can also help prevent excess water accumulating underneath it which would lead to more opportunities to rust. |
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Quick, all-around inspections are the best way to spot rust, or potential areas that may develop rust, and fix them before they turn into bigger problems. Always check all doors, the base, flooring, ceiling and all the walls. Finding any problems early (even if it’s not rust) can help save you from costly repairs down the line. |
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We know it’s impossible to stay completely out of contact with water. However, if there are any forms of constant contact with water, ice, or snow on the container, these areas will be much more susceptible to rusting. Check for and immediately remove any pools of water sitting on top of the container as this is one of the most common places for rust to form. |
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Containers are many things but they are not something you should set and forget about. Just like most things, to get the most out of a container, you need to make sure it’s correctly maintained. Not only will this keep the contents safe but will extend the lifetime of your container so you can continue to use it for years to come. Regular maintenance includes things like checking the flooring for damage, looking after the rubber seals, and making sure your doors are working well. For more tips on maintenance, check out our best practices for maintaining your container. |
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If water is what causes rust to form on metal, then making sure there is not excess water inside your container is another important rust prevention measure. To help combat condensation inside your shipping container, look into various ventilation methods. Even something as simply as an open window can help improve air flow, leading to less condensation and less chance of rust occurring inside the container. |
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Now, even the best prevention tactics won’t completely remove the chance of rust occurring. If you do see any spots of rust in or on your container, it’s important to treat them immediately. Waiting can lead to the spot corroding more metal and creating an even bigger hole to deal with. Rust can be easily dealt with at home by using a wire brush, some vinegar, and a bit of color matched paint to look good as new. |
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Another way to prevent rust on a shipping container is to consider using zinc paint. Zinc paint is unique in that the dry zinc powder inside it provides cathodic protection, meaning it significantly slows down the formation of rust on the steel underneath. For the best results you need to use quality paint with at least 90% zinc powder in it. |
StorageContainer.com is family owned and operated and has been in business for over 20 years. We have the experience and know-how to get you the container that fits your unique needs and can even help with any customization, like ventilation, that you may need. Reach out to us today for a free quote!
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