Shipping containers have become the perfect platform for innovative projects such as offices, restaurants, hospitals, and even greenhouses. To ensure a comfortable living experience inside these spaces, constructing interior walls is essential.
Get ready to know why and how a wall can upgrade your shipping container, plus the various kinds of materials you may use for construction. This article will help you pick the right one that suits your project best.
How To Build a Wall Inside a Shipping Container
1. Add A Frame To Your Container
Framing allows you to customize a shipping container into whatever you desire. It gives you the power to attach walls, insulate them, and incorporate doors, windows, or any other preferred accessories for your structure.
Without framing, you will be forced to hammer nails directly through the corrugated metal of your shipping container home. This can create tiny openings in the material, allowing moisture and other elements inside that may have a negative effect on your property down the line.
Below is a list of the most popular types of framing:
- Timber framing is an economical and efficient choice for construction, as it is easily accessible and easy to operate. Furthermore, wooden frames blend seamlessly with wall paneling. However, one must take extra precautions when using timber due to its susceptibility to harsh weather conditions and bugs. To ensure a secure connection between the framework’s pieces small nails should be wedged in and then glued into place for added stability against any external threats.
- Aluminum strip installation in your shipping container is as easy as welding thin metal strips into the frames and fastening them in the aluminum. Though this is a simple way of framing, it is effective in reinforcing the strength and adds an amazing amount of solidness and stability.
- Steel strips welded to the sides of your shipping container guarantee a secure and pest-free product for years. This is essential, especially in crucial areas with high moisture levels, intense humidity, and an abundance of insects.
This Metallic material is ideal if you are looking for strength and durability. They are, however, more expensive to acquire.
2. Add Insulation To Your Container
Insulation is essential to ensure your comfort. This way, you’ll be able to regulate the temperature of the space whether you’re using it as a living area or an office. With proper insulation in place, rest assured that no matter what season, your container will remain comfortable and cozy for years to come.
Common types of container insulation materials include:
- Fiberglass insulation is one of the most popular types of insulation with a thickness that ranges from 3-1/2 inches. This type of insulation provides an R-13 rating, making your home or building water-resistant and energy efficient.
- Polystyrene foam insulation is a popular choice due to its affordability and R-5 value, even with just one inch of thickness. To make the most out of your home’s thermal efficiency, simply panel it with plywood for an easy solution.
- Open or closed-cell foam insulation is the optimal choice with an R-6 value per inch, completely sealing off corrugated steel and leaving no opportunity for moisture accumulation.
- Thermal insulation is a process that employs machinery to regulate the temperature within the container, allowing for an efficient and comfortable atmosphere.
3. Add A Wall Panel To Your Container
After layering your container walls with insulation panels, you’ll want to add a panel overlay for extra coziness and visual appeal.
Here are the options of materials available for your container wall requirements:
- Drywall is the most preferred wall material amongst container conversions since its seamless and polished surface hiding all seams provides a traditional home-like feel. Not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also has a sturdier look than other materials making it an ideal choice for permanent structures requiring both strength and style.
- Sandalwood walls with seamless construction are the perfect choice for your container home or office. The trim strips hide any seams while still providing a flawless finish, making it ideal for mobile offices and sites due to its ability to stay intact when relocated.
- Plywood is a superior alternative to drywall, as it can support heavy items directly on the plywood walls without any dents or damage. Moreover, its natural wood grain pattern adds an inviting texture to your space and you can even apply varnish for a more refined look.
- Steel or Aluminum sheet is the ideal choice for a shipping container’s exterior and interior walls. Not only do they add an extra layer of insulation with their foam coating, but they also possess a sophisticated finish. Their seams are easily visible if you want to give your space an edgy look. Whether it’s a food truck, garage, or any other structure related to the culinary industry, these sheet materials are perfect for your shipping container project.
- Perforated Steel is a superior form of steel paneling. The addition of foam insulation will provide an ideal level of soundproofing and create a more subtle atmosphere for your walls.
- Fiberglass Reinforced Panels (FRP) are composed of polyester resin fortified with fiberglass, resulting in a sleek or textured surface. FRP panels offer numerous advantages: they’re resilient, effortless to clean and maintain, waterproofed, flexible yet long-lasting, and scratch-resistant.
Conclusion
Transform any shipping container into a fully functional space that suits your needs. Start by installing frames and insulation on the walls, and then cover them with wall panel overlays for an extra polished finish. You can create anything from an office to a restaurant or even a garage! When selecting materials, make sure they’re suitable for what you plan to use them for – this will not only help ensure their durability but also extend their life span significantly.
On-Site Storage Solutions
On-Site Storage Solutions provides you with the ideal shipping container for your needs. Our array of new and used containers comes in a range of sizes. And if you require specializations such as framing or walls, we can help there too. So don’t hesitate to connect with our experienced customer service specialists at 888 405-8772 and get yourself the storage solution you deserve today!
