When it comes to storing and protecting valuable items, storage containers prove a true and smart companion. They’re structurally stable, weatherproof, and withstand harsh weather conditions while providing a safe home for your belongings. However, as time passes, many people notice that their storage containers have begun to crack, warp, or become less reliable. Why does this happen? See, even the best storage container can also suffer damage over time if not maintained properly. You need to take care of some things to prevent cracking and warping in storage containers. In this article, I’ve listed some essential measures that you must take to maintain your container for years to come.
What’s the Reason for Cracking and Warping in Storage Containers?
There are many causes, and being aware of them allows you to avoid further problems. Here are some of the most common reasons:
Exposure to Sunlight
Most of the time, storage containers are placed in areas where sun exposure is constant and unavoidable. Harmful UV rays break down the material, making it brittle and more prone to cracking.
Temperature Changes
Storage containers undergo constant temperature fluctuations, such as being exposed to hot temperatures during the day and cooling down at night. These changes can lead to warping or cracking over time.
Overloading Container
Overloading occurs when too many heavy items are placed inside a container. Some standard containers are designed to carry lightweight items, but people often try to put extra equipment or items in them without checking the weight limit. This overloading can cause stress on the walls and lids, leading to cracking or warping at the base or edges.
Low-Quality Material
Not all storage containers are made of high-quality materials, such as Corten steel or heavy-duty steel. Some are made of cheaper materials that are less flexible and durable. Over time, these materials shorten the lifespan of a storage container.
Aging and Wear Over Time
Continuous opening, closing, and moving can weaken its structure over time. This quickly happens in older containers.
How to Avoid These Risks?
If you want to avoid these damage risks to your container and ensure it stays durable and stable for years to come, you must take care of the following things:
Always Choose the Container Made of High-Quality Material
Quality matters the most. Don’t choose containers that are constructed with low-quality or cheap materials. Such containers may be affordable, but they don’t last for a long period. If you’ve purchased a cheap, low-quality container for long-term needs, remember that you may end up spending more in the long run by replacing it repeatedly.
It’s necessary to choose a container made with sturdy, high-quality materials, such as stainless steel or Corten steel. These materials are durable and can withstand changing weather conditions. You can move such containers anywhere without cracking, rusting, or warping due to temperature fluctuations, UV rays, or humidity. Additionally, both stainless and corten steel have corrosion-resistant properties, which means your container will last for years without showing wear or damage.
Don’t Overload; Instead, Buy the Right Size
Storage containers mainly come in two sizes: 20ft and 40ft. 20ft is designed for storing smaller loads, such as furniture, household items, or a few pieces of equipment. Those containers are suitable for storing a large amount of items, machines or items you plan to keep for some time. To ‘overload’ means that the weight you add to a container is more than what is allowed. There are containers available in various sizes to hold different amounts of things, so pick a container size accordingly.
Regularly Inspect the Container’s Condition
It’s not that you’ve purchased a well-designed container and now you don’t need to inspect its condition on a daily basis. A storage container works repeatedly, sometimes storing heavy items for extended periods and sometimes relocating items to different locations. In all this, there’s always a risk of wear and tear, as well as cracks.
Therefore, you must take it as a responsibility to inspect your container’s condition regularly. Routine checks can help catch early signs of damage before they turn into more serious issues. Make it a habit to check for things like cracks or dents in the walls or doors, rust or corrosion on metal surfaces, leaking seals or moisture buildup inside the container, and loose or broken locks that could compromise security.
Store Containers in Consistent Temperatures
As discussed above, temperature fluctuations can have a significant impact on the container’s integrity. Regardless of the material your container is made of, constant temperature changes can cause it to crack, warp, or become damaged. So, it’s best practice to store your container in a cool, dry and well-ventilated area. If possible, store them in a place that maintains a steady temperature year-round, such as a basement or a climate-controlled warehouse.
Advice: For those considering purchasing a storage container for their storage needs, it’s recommended to seek out reliable companies that offer high-quality container storage solutions. Saving money is good, but that doesn’t mean you should compromise on quality. A well-made storage container can save you money in the long run by reducing the need for reinvestment.
Final Thoughts
Finally, cracking or warping is common in storage containers over time, especially if they aren’t properly maintained. However, with the right care, you can extend the lifespan of your container. By following the above-listed tips, your storage container will continue to provide reliable protection for your belongings, offering long-term value and reliability.
And REMEMBER, investing in quality container storage solutions now can save you a lot of hassle and cost in the future.
