Shipping containers are wind and watertight steel boxes, which is ideal for transporting items, but offers limited control over temperature fluctuations inside the unit.
When it comes to converting a container for an alternative use you may want to consider insulation options for your unit. Appropriate shipping container insulation will help manage seasonal temperature changes, and will help protect items from high and low temperatures or condensation.
Different ways to Insulate a Shipping Container
There are many options when it comes to insulating a shipping container. As every container project is different, it goes without saying that the type of insulation you choose depends on the end use of the container. If you’re storing goods inside the container, for example, it might be beneficial to look at lining that can prevent condensation forming and therefore stop mould growth or corrosion occurring.
It is possible to insulate your container yourself, however it can be time-consuming and you may accidentally choose inappropriate insulation material. With this in mind, we’d recommend using a reputable shipping container supplier who can advise on the best insulation for your specific needs and can apply the insulation with a professional finish.
Options for insulating a Shipping Container
There are some important considerations to be made when selecting your shipping container insulation. For example, the majority of insulation methods will need an interior frame constructing that can be used to attach the insulation material to.
We’ve listed some options below for container insulation, but if you’re unsure on which is the best for your specific needs, please get in touch with our experienced team.
Container Lineouts
One popular method for shipping container insulation is board lining. For a container lineout, OSB board is attached to a wooden frame inside the unit and then a non-combustible stone wool insulation is added behind the boards.
Lineouts prevent condensation inside the container and can help regulate the temperature so it’s at a more consistent level. We use 11mm thick OSB/3 boards as they offer maximum strength and are conditioned to work in humid environments.
Melamine Lining
An alternative to OSB board lining is melamine. Melamine lining offers insulation similar to OSB board, but is easy to wipe down and gives a neat and professional finish, so often used in applications such as catering, welfare units, or living and working spaces.
Melamine is installed in a similar way to OSB boards – we construct a frame that sits inside the container, add the insulation material, and then lay the melamine boards over the top.
Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam is another common method of insulating a shipping container that you may come across; however, we strongly do not recommend this method.
Spray foam is a liquid that’s sprayed onto surfaces and sets as an insulating layer. It’s quick and easy to apply, but its composition is essentially a mix of chemicals that can release harmful fumes when applied and leach into the air over time. It can be used in ventilated places that people don’t go into regularly, such as lofts, however it’s not so great in a container where the harmful fumes are trapped inside a unit that people will potentially be going in and out of on a frequent basis. These toxic fumes are also released when applying the spray foam, making it hazardous to apply in the first place.
Need an insulated shipping container?
If you’re not sure how to insulate your container, or if you’d like to purchase an insulated shipping container, then get in touch with our experienced sales team who can provide insulated solutions, no matter the project. The team at S Jones Containers have years of experience and are always happy to offer impartial advice on the best ways to insulate your container unit.
