Shipping containers are built to withstand years at sea, but once they’re sitting on your property, they still need routine maintenance to stay dry, secure, and problem-free.
At The Container Guy, we recommend performing a full container inspection at least once a year. It only takes a few minutes, and it can help prevent costly repairs or premature replacement.
This guide covers the top three areas to inspect: dents, door gaskets, and floorboards, plus a few pro tips to keep your container working like new.
Dents & Structural Damage
Containers are tough—but even steel can bend under pressure from equipment, shifting loads, or impacts from the yard.
What to Look For:
- Large dents on the sidewalls or the roof that could trap water
- Creased or bent roof corrugations
- Bulging or cracked corner posts
- Damaged corner castings that affect stacking or leveling
Why It Matters:
Structural damage can lead to water pooling, stress cracks, and long-term corrosion. Even a small roof dent can cause major issues once water starts pooling and rusting through.
Pro Tip from The Container Guy:
Check your roof from a ladder or drone after winter. Snow buildup can cause sagging that’s hard to see from the ground.
Door Gaskets & Seals
Cargo doors are one of the most common points of failure, especially if you’re opening and closing them often.
What to Inspect:
- Cracks or missing chunks in the rubber gaskets
- Stiffness or dry rot in older rubber
- Gaps that let in light, water, or rodents
- Rust or warping around the door frame
Why It Matters:
If your gaskets are compromised, your container is no longer wind and watertight. That means water, snow, dust, and pests can get in. It also makes doors harder to open and close properly.
Quick Test:
Stand inside your container on a sunny day, close the doors, and look for light leaks around the seal. Any light = potential water entry.
Floorboards
Most container floors are made of 28mm marine-grade plywood, built to last, but they’re still vulnerable to moisture, heavy impacts, and spills.
What to Check:
- Soft spots underfoot
- Dark stains or water damage
- Delamination or warped areas
- Signs of rodents, mold, or rot underneath stored items
Why It Matters:
Damaged flooring is a safety risk and can ruin stored goods. Worse, it often goes unnoticed until it’s too late—especially under shelves or bins.
Pro Tip:
Use a flashlight and gently press a screwdriver into suspect areas. If it sinks in easily, the wood is compromised.
Annual Inspection Checklist Summary
- Inspect roof and walls for dents, rust, and water pooling
- Check door gaskets for gaps, cracks, and compression
- Test doors for smooth opening and full seal
- Examine floors for soft spots, rot, or damage
- Look for rust or bubbling paint that may signal underlying issues
- Confirm container is level and properly supported
Don’t scrap your container—fix it right with these simple repair tips
Shipping containers are built tough—but after years in the field, even the toughest steel box will show signs of wear and tear. Whether your container is used for storage, a mobile shop, or a modified living space, knowing how to spot and solve common issues can extend its life and protect what’s inside.
At The Container Guy, we’ve seen it all—from rusty roofs to stuck doors—and we’re here to help you fix problems fast, using the right methods and materials.
Common Container Issues & How to Repair Them
Rust & Corrosion
What to Look For:
- Surface rust on roof panels or doors
- Rust bubbles forming under paint
- Deep pitting on the floor crossmembers or corners
How to Fix It:
- Use a wire brush or grinder to remove loose rust
- Apply a rust converter or primer
- Topcoat with rust-resistant marine-grade paint
Pro Tip: Pay close attention to the roof—it’s the most common area for rust due to water pooling and sun exposure.
Sticking or Warped Doors
What to Look For:
- Doors that won’t close or seal properly
- Misaligned locking rods
- Difficulty opening after cold weather or frost
How to Fix It:
- Ensure the container is sitting level—door issues are often caused by uneven ground or frost heave
- Clean and lubricate the locking gear with grease or anti-seize
- Replace worn or brittle door gaskets to improve sealing
Need parts? We offer door seal kits and lockbox replacements ready to install.
Damaged or Rotten Floors
What to Look For:
- Soft spots, sagging, or holes in the floor
- Water stains or delamination
- Mold or mildew under stored items
How to Fix It:
- Cut out damaged sections and replace with marine-grade plywood
- Seal new flooring with an oil- or water-based wood sealant
- Consider installing raised shelving or pallets to protect floors long-term
If moisture is the issue, check your container's ventilation and ensure it's not sitting in pooled water.
Holes in Roof or Walls
What to Look For:
- Daylight visible from inside the container
- Small punctures or stress cracks in the steel
- Water entry during rain or snowmelt
How to Fix It:
For small holes:
- Clean the area
- Apply a rust primer
- Patch with container-grade epoxy, weld-on patch, or screw-on metal patch kit
For larger damage:
- Call a professional to cut out and weld in a new steel section.
We carry patch kits that don’t require welding—perfect for quick DIY repairs.
Poor Ventilation or Condensation Issues
What to Look For:
- Dripping from ceiling (“container sweat”)
- Mold on walls or stored items
- Musty smell inside
How to Fix It:
- Install passive vents to promote airflow
- Add a solar-powered exhaust fan for high-humidity areas
- Insulate and line the interior with a vapour barrier to prevent moisture buildup
Check out our Big Air Vents and Solar Fan Kits designed specifically for containers.
DIY-Friendly, Weld-Free Solutions
At The Container Guy, we specialize in repair products you can install yourself—no torch or welder required. Whether you’re fixing a leaky roof, replacing a floorboard, or upgrading your doors, our kits are made to fit the container profile and built to last in Canadian conditions.
Quick Repair Checklist
- Check for rust, especially on the roof and door frame
- Inspect doors for seal and alignment
- Test floors for soft spots or damage
- Look for any light leaks or visible holes
- Check for condensation or mold buildup
- Keep vents and drainage areas clear
