Over time, shipping containers may show signs of wear since they are constantly amidst the elements. A fresh coat of paint is the ideal and most efficient method to revitalize your container while also giving it a pleasing appearance. Additionally, a fresh coat of paint adds an extra layer of protection between your container’s steel and the harsh elements. Finally, painting shipping containers provides durability, safeguarding the integrity and strength of the metal by keeping it free from rust.
Painting shipping containers, on the other hand, isn’t always as simple as it appears. This article will walk you through the basics of painting shipping containers.
The Right Type of Paint for Shipping Containers
Marine-grade direct-to-metal (DTM) waterborne paint is the best paint for shipping containers. This industrial paint is an interior-exterior, corrosion-resistant, water-based acrylic coating. Just like the name suggests, DTM paints are specifically made to be compatible with metal to ease many of the issues painters experience while trying to cover the metal with standard coatings.
DTM paints are composed of multiple resins. The type of resin used in the paint determines the finished product’s durability, color retention, and gloss level. Generally speaking, more expensive is not always better when it comes to DTM paints—make sure to choose a high-quality paint for your shipping container that will stand up against UV rays, heat and moisture.
How to Prep the Surface Before Painting a Shipping Container
Properly preparing your shipping container before painting is important to achieving a smooth, long-lasting finish. Here’s how to get your container ready:
- Remove any shipping line markings:
Use a razor blade to scrape off the markings. For stubborn areas, a heat gun can help loosen the material for easier removal. - Clean the container thoroughly:
Wipe down the surface with a cleanser appropriate for the container’s material. If you have a pressure washer, this step becomes much quicker and more effective. - Avoid sandblasting:
Sandblasting can strip away the container’s original rust-resistant zinc coating and marine-grade protective paint, leaving it vulnerable to damage. - Address rust spots:
Once the container is dry, tackle any rust using a wire brush. If needed, you can also apply rust removal chemicals to ensure a clean, smooth surface. - Ready to paint:
After completing these steps, your container is prepped and ready for painting.
By following these steps, you’ll create a well-prepared surface that allows your paint to adhere properly and ensures a durable, professional finish.
How to Paint a Shipping Container
When it comes to painting your shipping container, you have two main options: rolling or spraying. Industrial paint sprayers can significantly speed up the process, delivering a smooth, even coat in less time. However, if a sprayer isn’t available, a can of paint and a paintbrush can get the job done, albeit with a bit more effort.
If you’re planning to paint the container yourself, here are some helpful tips to guide you:
- Prep the surface:
Ensure the container is clean, dry, and free of rust for the best results. - Mark off non-paint areas:
Use masking tape or paper to cover areas that you don’t want painted. - Protect nearby objects:
If your container is near your car or other items, cover them with plastic sheeting to shield them from overspray. - Mind the weather:
Avoid painting on windy days, as the wind can cause the paint to dry mid-air, resulting in a textured, uneven finish. - Choose your tools wisely:
Commercial painters often prefer industrial-strength rollers, which apply paint evenly and efficiently across the container’s steel surface.
Also, note that there is no need to prime the surface when you’re painting your shipping containers. However, if you do decide to use a primer, make sure it’s suitable for metal. The best primers for painting shipping containers ensure that all rust and dirt are removed from the surface before painting begins.
What are the best colors to choose?
While painting shipping containers is a matter of preference, most people choose a paint color that contrasts with the environment they plan to use it. A good rule of thumb is to stick with darker colors if the container is in an area with intense sunlight and lighter colors if the container is in a shaded area. In addition, marine containers are often red to make them easier to see at sea.
There is a wide range of colors to choose from. Therefore, it’s essential to be aware of:
- Lighter colors — typically, light colors need more coats of paint to get the right coverage, and they tend to show dirt or marks more easily.
- Darker colors — a dark color might make the interior of your shipping container feel hotter, especially in summer; however, they hide imperfections better compared to lighter colors.
For these reasons, going for a more neutral shade that requires fewer touch-ups and less cleaning is more recommendable.
How Long Does Paint Last on a Shipping Container?
Understanding how long your paint job will last helps you plan for future maintenance and keep your container in top condition. A well-applied coating using high-quality DTM paint typically lasts anywhere from 7 to 15 years, depending on several environmental factors.
Climate exposure
Containers positioned in areas with intense sun, frequent rain, or significant temperature swings will experience faster paint breakdown. UV rays can fade color over time, while moisture encourages surface corrosion if the paint is compromised.
Usage and placement
If your container is used regularly, moved often, or placed near trees, machinery, or high-traffic areas, the paint may need refreshing sooner due to scratches, scuffs, or debris.
Quality of prep work
The longevity of any paint job directly ties back to how well the container was prepped. Removing rust, cleaning thoroughly, and ensuring a dry surface contribute to stronger adhesion and a longer-lasting finish.
Type of paint
Marine-grade DTM paints offer exceptional durability, including resistance to fading, corrosion, chipping, and moisture. Using cheaper, incompatible coatings can significantly reduce lifespan and require more frequent repainting.
Routine upkeep
Simple yearly inspections can prevent small issues from becoming major problems. Touch up any chips or scrapes right away to keep rust from forming beneath the coating.
What You Need to Know About Painting Shipping Containers
A freshly painted shipping container doesn’t just look better. It performs better. With the right prep work, high-quality DTM paint, and proper application, you can dramatically extend the life of your container, improve its durability, and keep it protected from Oklahoma’s changing weather. Painting may seem straightforward, but taking the time to do it correctly ensures you get a long-lasting, professional result.
The first step is finding a quality shipping container that fits your needs. Contact us today or view our current inventory of shipping containers to see available options and find the container that matches your needs.