In the modern era, almost everything is disposable but modular units are designed to last. When you buy a cargo unit you are buying a well-built, durable structure. They are designed to endure extreme heavy weights and bear heavy loads for many years.
These types of units are also designed to withstand severe weather conditions so they are wind and watertight structures, but due to being constructed mainly from steel, they are susceptible to rust. They are made from high-grade steel though so they will be able to resist deep corrosion for many many years, but instead will form light rust on their surface.
Their lifespan will depend on a number of factors, such as the age of the product at purchase, the condition, and the intended location of it.
These homes can easily last well over 50 years as these durable structures are often treated and clad as part of the building process. This article will look at the various ways to increase their longevity through initial maintenance and ongoing maintenance:
Initial Maintenance
It is possible to extend your home’s lifespan by proper maintenance, and this maintenance starts when you first receive your modular application, especially if it is a used one. Before you purchase it, be sure to thoroughly inspect it. Any previous cracks or dents could encourage an initial onset of rust which is what you want to most avoid.
The best way to extend the lifespan of your product is to minimise moisture contact, so before you place and modify your home, and ultimately cover it up with insulation, cladding, and walls, it is advised to first ensure there is no rust, holes, or missing paint. In most instances, some wire brushing or sanding and a few coats of paint will get things in excellent working order.
Some well-used units may require that you remove some dents and weld in metal patches too. Adding a form of external cladding can add decades to its lifespan. Cladding shields the metal from moisture, sunlight, falling tree branches, and other irritants.
The less the metal has to endure, the longer it should last. Storing your home off the ground will also be helpful in stopping the base from being in constant contact with the damp ground and helps it to avoid any flowing groundwater during periods of precipitation. Raising your home from ground level can therefore be a great way to slow the deterioration of the floor. All this initial maintenance will set a good base to work off from and reduce your future maintenance requirements.
Ongoing Maintenance
Well cared for units can be expected to last up to 50 years. Having it regularly re-primed, painted, and buffed is a great way to keep your home looking good as well as keep the exterior protected from the elements. Continually inspect this for any dents and be sure to repair any that may appear. It is also helpful to minimise it’s exposure to moisture as much as possible to prevent any degradation and rust or mould forming.
A helpful way of minimising moisture contact is by being aware of and reducing the amount of what is known as ‘container rain’, which is a build-up of internal condensation. This can be reduced by being selective with what you store in your unit. Also always try and keep your home as well ventilated as possible.
Replacing any worn door seals will also be beneficial in increasing your product’s longevity. It is highly recommended to seal your home’s floor with water-resistant paint or material every couple of years.
If you take proper care of your home you are guaranteed to get your money’s worth from it. They are extremely strong structures and their high-grade steel means they are able to last a good few decades. We hope this article will help you to understand what causes deterioration and therefore how proper maintenance can help to increase the longevity of your modular home so that you may experience many happy years.
S Jones is a proud family-owned business with over 40 years of knowledge and experience in the shipping container hire, sale and conversion industry. For more information or any questions you may have, just get in touch.
