As many states are experiencing cold weather conditions, it’s important to prepare for the extremely low temperatures. This is especially true for people who are considering purchasing a modified shipping container! At Portable Solutions Group, we offer many different customization options that will keep your shipping container modification product warm. And with proper preparation, you can protect your shipping container modification from harsh climates and increase its life span as a result. Here’s what you need to know to prepare your unit.
Insulation
Insulating your shipping container modification offers both immediate and long-term benefits such as reducing energy costs, preventing moisture condensation, safety and protection of personnel, and much more. Here are the benefits of different types of insulation.
Closed-Cell Spray Foam
Closed-cell foam insulation has the highest R-value of any insulation which measures an insulation’s thermal resistance. The higher an insulation’s R-value, the greater the effectiveness. When closed-cell foam insulation is applied, the insulation creates an air barrier to prevent air leakage. This prevents moisture and reduces the risk of mold. It’s also a rigid material that helps reject water and is recognized as a flood-resistant material by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Closed-cell foam insulation has many other advantages including being able to be applied at very low temperatures, adding wall racking strength as well as impact resistance, and higher bond strength.
Mineral Wool
Mineral wool insulation has many benefits. It has a very high R-value and contains 70% recycled material, making it a greener product compared to the other insulation types. With a large density, mineral wool has superior sound-deadening properties. The stiffer batts don’t tend to flop over as easily, making it easier to put in place, and they don’t require staples or wire to keep them in place. It’s also hydrophobic and fire resistant, so it won’t absorb water, won’t encourage the growth of mold and mildew, and can act as a fire stop.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is a commonly used type of insulation, partially because it’s affordable. Overall, it has a good R-value. Since it’s popular among the general public, this insulation type is available in many different sizes and with or without a paper facing. It’s also lightweight, made with with 20-30% recycled content, and easy to install in a wide range of circumstances, often with just a tack nailer.
Generators
To support loss of power, Portable Solutions Group can manufacture shipping container modifications to include generators with manual transfer switches. This will not only keep your build heated, but it will also keep your appliances and tools connected to power and functioning properly. For example, by having a generator, you can keep your HVAC running and increase your protection against mold and mildew.
PEX Piping
Portable Solutions Group utilizes PEX piping for freshwater lines. There are many benefits to using PEX piping over other materials (i.e. copper, PVC, galvanized steel). PEX offers resistance to breakage caused by freezing by being able to expand. It’s also flexible and easier to install, reducing the need for holes and notches to accommodate the tubing and eliminating the need for many elbows and other transition fittings.
HVAC Systems
Another way to keep your shipping container modifications warm during the cold months is to install an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. There are many other different benefits to having this type of system installed including improved indoor air quality and moisture consistency. An HVAC system can improve air quality by constantly exchanging the indoor air with fresh, outdoor air that is also filtered for the best quality possible. And whether you’re in a climate that changes every season, or in a climate that remains constant, you can always run the risk of retaining moisture. So, to reduce the chances of mold growth, the HVAC system pulls warm, moist air out and sends dry, cool air inside.
To begin your shipping container modification journey, CONTACT US HERE or call 740.532.7822 to speak to a sales associate.
