Shipping container-mounted structures are a cost-effective alternative to traditional and concrete foundation fabric buildings. These structures offer many benefits, including portability, making them appealing to an array of industries. Once a fabric shipping container-mounted shelter is installed, it can last for decades with proper maintenance. However, it must first be properly set up. Explore 11 helpful tips for installing a shipping container shelter to create a long-lasting structure that supports your operation’s needs.
Obtain Necessary Permits
Review local regulations and obtain all necessary building permits before constructing your container structure to avoid legal issues. As you assemble your shipping container shelter, ensure it complies with zoning regulations, fire codes, safety standards, and environmental regulations. It’s important to note that navigating the permit process can take time. As you make plans for your shipping container structure, add extra time to your timeline to account for submitting applications and addressing potential compliance issues.
Select the Right Installation Site
Before installing your shipping container-mounted structure, you need to know where you will construct it. Consider your chosen site and your intended use for the structure to determine the most convenient placement. Ensure the site, as well as the surrounding area, has flat, level ground. The flatter your site is, the easier it will be for builders to access the area and bring in the necessary equipment to construct your shelter.
Choose the Proper Materials
Choosing the right materials for your shipping container structure can ensure its longevity. Opt for suitable shipping containers that meet your project’s size, dimension, and structural requirements. Ensure the containers are in good condition and free from rust, leaks, or structural defects. Choose a tension fabric cover that is durable and weather-resistant. The cover will be exposed to natural debris, UV rays, and other weather conditions, so it is crucial to verify that the cover can withstand any of these occurrences.
Plan Your Layout
One significant benefit of fabric structures is how easy they adapt to future adjustments. However, it’s important to plan your structure’s layout carefully to avoid the need for adjustments soon after installation. Consider the building’s intended use and the most functional design that will accommodate your needs. A professional can help you design your building for long-term functionality based on your business’s requirements and growth plans.
Carefully Position Your Containers
Once you’ve planned your structure’s layout, make sure you place your containers properly. Positioning the containers too close together or too far apart will lead to problems with attaching the cover. Ensuring the containers are in the correct position from the start will ultimately save you time and stress throughout the rest of the installation process.
Properly Anchor Your Structure
A well-designed anchoring system prevents your structure from shifting, settling, or overturning due to wind, seismic forces, or other natural events. Ensuring that you use the proper foundation or hold-downs will allow your structure to remain functional during these weather patterns. There are different approaches for anchoring your structure that you can use depending on your needs. Regardless of the anchor bracket layout you use, be sure to take care when positioning the brackets, screws, and bolts. Rushing through this stage of the installation process could lead to costly repairs if your structure tips over due to severe weather.
Cover Sharp Edges
Covering any sharp edges on your shipping container structure’s frame or anchors will protect the cover and your workers. You can sand down sharp points using a grinder or simply cover them with something like duct tape to prevent workers from getting cut or the tension fabric cover from being torn when it is pulled over the frame.
Ensure Even Tension
One of the most important steps in installing any fabric building is creating tension in the fabric. Once you place the fabric over the frame of your shipping container structure, make sure you pull it taut. Start by pulling from the front and back of the structure, then from side to side. This process ensures the cover is centered and that there is even tension throughout the entire piece of fabric; otherwise, the fabric building will not be as durable. While creating tension, take care not to over-tension the fabric—this can cause the material to tear, reducing its longevity.
Set Up a Maintenance Schedule
Proper maintenance is key to enhancing the longevity of your fabric building. As you plan for the installation of your shipping container structure, schedule routine maintenance for the coming months. In time, maintaining your structure will become second nature, but building that routine and starting off on the right foot is important. Maintain your building by cleaning it with soap and water, ensuring the fabric is still tensioned correctly, and assessing and promptly repairing any damage to the structure. Be prepared to conduct additional maintenance tasks after storms or other inclement weather that could damage your structure.
Watch the Weather
Though your shipping container structure will be able to withstand various weather conditions once it has been constructed, it’s better to assemble it during ideal weather. Attempting to install your shelter on a windy day, for instance, can result in the fabric cover moving in undesirable ways during installation. As you plan for your shipping container shelter installation, look for a day with little to no wind in the forecast. This will help ensure your cover stays in its desired position while workers secure it in place.
Work With a Professional
If you’re unsure about any aspect of installing a container-mounted fabric structure or need assistance with planning, design, or execution, seek professional guidance and expertise. Professionals will ensure that your installation project meets industry standards, regulatory requirements, and best practices for safety, quality, and performance. Make sure the company you work with has a proven track record of successful fabric structure installation and a commitment to customer satisfaction.
Big Top Manufacturing can help you install your shipping container hoop building. Our experts will work with you to design and construct a shipping container structure that meets your needs and preferences.
Now that you know these 11 helpful tips for installing a shipping container shelter, you can assemble a long-lasting structure that supports your business’s requirements. For more information on constructing a container-mounted structure, contact our team at Big Top Manufacturing.
