Shipping Container Waterproofing Guide

Waterproofing your shipping container is essential for preventing leaks, protecting against rust, and ensuring long-term durability. Whether your container is used for storage, living spaces, or workspaces, applying Liquid Rubber DIY products will create a durable, flexible, and weather-resistant barrier. Follow this guide to keep your shipping container safe and sealed against the elements.

Why Waterproof Your Shipping Container?

✔ Prevent Leaks: Seals seams, joins, and holes to stop water intrusion.
✔ Protect Against Corrosion: Shields metal surfaces from rust and decay.
✔ Extend Lifespan: Increases the durability of your container, especially in harsh weather conditions.
✔ Enhance Temperature Control: Applying a Thermal Coating can improve heat reflection, keeping the container cooler.

What You’ll Need

Before starting, gather the following tools and materials:

• Liquid Rubber DIY Waterproof Sealant
• Geo-Textile: For reinforcing seams, joints, vents, skylights, and other vulnerable areas.
• Rapid Cure Spray (Optional): Speeds up curing time.
• Primer/Sealer:
  • For painted or previously coated surfaces, use Primer/Sealer.
  • For raw metal surfaces or areas sanded down to the metal, use Etch Primer.
• Thermal Coating: White is recommended for optimal heat reflection and UV protection.
• Cleaning Supplies: High-pressure water, detergent, stiff brush, scrubbing pad. wire-brush
• Repair Tools: Patch repair kit for any pre-existing damage.
• Application Tools: Roller, brush, or spray equipment.
• Safety Gear: Gloves, safety goggles, and a dust mask.
• Weather Considerations: Choose a dry day with moderate temperatures, avoiding direct sunlight during application.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Surface

• Wash or water-blast the entire container to remove dirt, debris, and any loose or peeling paint.
• Use a leaf blower to remove excess water and ensure the surface is completely dry before application.

2. Reinforce Seams, Joins, and Holes

• Pre-cut Geo-Textile to fit over all seams, joins, and holes.
• Apply a first coat of Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant with a brush to these areas.
• While the sealant is still wet, embed the Geo-Textile into the sealant, making sure to smooth out air bubbles and wrinkles.
• Once positioned, spray Rapid Cure Spray to set the product and speed up drying.

3. Treat Rust and Ventilation Areas

• Apply Waterproof Sealant to surface rust, air ventilators, and other exposed metal areas to prevent further corrosion.
• Allow the product to cure before moving on to the next step.

4. Apply Waterproof Sealant to Entire Surface

• Once the reinforced areas have dried, apply a first coat of Waterproof Sealant across the entire shipping container using a brush, roller, or spray machine.
• If rain is expected, spray Rapid Cure Spray after application to set the product quickly.

5. Apply the Final Coat of Waterproof Sealant

• Apply a second coat of Waterproof Sealant across the entire container for complete coverage. Additional coats may be applied if necessary.
• Recommended thickness: 1.5mm dry-film (approximately 2 liters per square meter).
• Allow the product to cure for 24 hours per 1mm of thickness (longer in cold weather). A full cure usually takes 2-3 days.

6. Apply Sealer, Primer, and Thermal Coating

• Once fully cured, wash the surface again to remove any dirt or dust.
• If the container was previously painted, apply Sealer before adding the final coating.
• If working with raw metal, apply Etch Primer to ensure proper adhesion.
• Once dry, apply Thermal Coating to protect against UV exposure and improve heat reflection. Apply 3 coats over Waterproof Sealant or 2 coats minimum over primed metal surfaces.

Additional Tips

• Apply products in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid direct sunlight.
• Always ensure surfaces are completely dry before application.
• Use Rapid Cure Spray to set the product quickly and reduce curing time, especially if rain is approaching.
• Waterproofing works best in temperatures between 10°C and 32°C.