Shipping containers once only served the purpose of transportation on freighters and similar transport ships. However, recent times have helped create a booming business of repurposing these containers into viable structures. Companies turn these containers into cafes, pop-up shops, office buildings, storage units, and even livable homes. With new business ventures come new needs. Here are some ways you can keep your container structure cool in the summer.
Proper Ventilation
Creating a constant airflow is a fundamental part of keeping any structure cooler, and that means including vents at each end of the container. Some of the more popular ventilation options are louver or rooftop turbines. Standard vents are good if you’re using your container for storage. However, if you have people coming and going from your structure, having vents that you can freely open and close may be wise.
Cool Roof Coating
There are many different ways to use a 20-foot shipping container. It can act as everything from an office area to a classroom. However, if you convert your structure into something that regularly houses multiple people, you want to try and keep the interior cool. A helpful way to keep your shipping container structure cool in the summer is to use a cool roof coating. It has reflective materials and installs easily on almost any structure. This coating helps repel the sun’s rays and keeps your interior from getting too hot.
Air Conditioning
Companies have different layouts for their container structures. Many create more open-air establishments that have a natural air current and can rely on it to remain cooler. However, contained units may need a bit more to help inhabitants stay comfortable. One of the best options for this is the same thing we use in our own homes—an air conditioner. If your container structure has electrical hookups, you can install a small air conditioning unit to circulate the air and help keep everybody cooler.