How to Finish a Shipping Container Interior: 8 Steps

Containers are now being used as workspaces, warehouses, living quarters, or residences. However, you first need to know how to finish a container interior so that it can function properly, as steel walls don't offer enough protection from the elements. Unprotected container interiors can be unbearably cold in the winter and very hot in the summer. So whether you're customizing a container as a work, living, or storage space, you can learn how to finish a container interior to keep its interior dry, comfortable, and quiet.

 

1. Plan Your Shipping Container Project

 

Before you start working on the interior of a container, you first need to plan.

First, you'll need to determine the interior dimensions of the container and then decide where to install interior partitions, electrical outlets, and plumbing fixtures. Next, draw a detailed drawing of your project plan that includes the exact location and dimensions of the container interior. You can then use sketches to draw individual floor plans for each interior feature, which will help you.

 

2. Create a Container Layout Plan

 

Once you've planned your project, make a layout plan for each area inside the container. For example, if you plan to install cabinets or shelving units in a specific space, draw an accurate, detailed technical drawing of that area. Your layout plan should include the size and shape of each feature, as well as its exact location within the container.

 

3. Use protective film

 

When working inside a container, it is imperative that you protect the container from moisture damage caused by external weather conditions. If you plan to transform the container into a studio, workshop, garage, or storage area, protect the steel floor with a heavy-duty moisture barrier. You can also make individual plastic sheets for your project by covering the container with plastic sheets and securing them in place with nails or staples.

 

4. Create a door and window strategy

 

Before you start interior renovations, installing exterior doors and windows is also essential. First, you need to cut out the size of the doors and windows you prefer. A heavy-duty angle grinder will give you enough power to cut through the sturdy and thick container. If you are not a welder, you can find an expert to help you with this part of the job. Once you are done, install the doors and windows that fit the cut size.

 

5. Choose container insulation

 

The temperature inside a container can be significantly increased by adding insulation. You need to insulate the ceiling, walls, and floor. The easiest way to insulate the interior of a container is to use spray foam. Other insulation materials include cotton/denim, insulation board, cork or wool.

 

 

6. Choose Container Interior Wall Finish

 

Once you have insulated your container, you can choose your wall finish. Again, there are a variety of materials to choose from, including plywood, FRP (fiberglass reinforced panels) or drywall.

 

Drywall is the best choice for improving insulation and maintaining room temperature compared to many other wall finish alternatives. Drywall is an energy-efficient and affordable option, and is attractive because of its unobstructed and clean feel, giving the wall a ready-to-paint surface.

 

Plywood is considered stronger than drywall. If you install plywood, you will have to find a stud to nail it into. Finally, you can choose FRP to create a strong, waterproof yet washable and easy-to-clean wall. This option will give you excellent flexibility to achieve a durable and scratch-resistant interior finish. After choosing your preferred wall finish, you can apply the wall covering of your choice, such as wallpaper, or you can choose to paint the wall.

 

7. Decide on the flooring inside the container

 

Since the wooden flooring of containers is often contaminated with pesticides and chemicals that are meant to withstand the elements on the high seas, you may need to replace it. Your options include carpet, linoleum, cork flooring, or plywood. If you plan to increase the insulation of the container, go with plywood. Cork is suitable for adding warmth to the room, while linoleum provides a durable option that can withstand the forces of nature.

 

Lay the floor covering and leave openings to accommodate plumbing fixtures such as floor drains, toilets, and kitchen sinks. Also, install flooring in areas near exterior doors and windows to protect door frames.

 

8. Get creative and decorate your container interior

 

You need to improve your living or working space by making creative changes to the interior design of the container. For example, you can add interior decorations of your choice to make the interior comfortable and welcoming. You can also incorporate storage ideas to create more space.

 

For example, use old drawers to create storage units. Also, repurpose the inner shell of the container as part of the interior design. You can also add shelving or storage units. This will increase the interior space of the container, especially if it is designed specifically for commercial use.

 

Finally, paint and decorate the walls to complete the interior of your home or office. Colorful exterior paint is also a good choice to make your container stand out.