Is the Tile Waterproof in Container Houses?

The tiles laid in container houses do not inherently possess waterproofing capabilities. However, a properly installed tile layer can assist in waterproofing the container house, with the overall waterproofing performance primarily depending on the structural treatment and waterproofing measures of the container itself. Here's a detailed analysis:

Waterproof Characteristics of Tiles

The front surface of tiles is treated with glaze, resulting in an extremely low water absorption rate, preventing water from penetrating through the tile surface. Thus, the front of tiles is waterproof. However, if the back of the tiles and the tile-laying layer are not properly treated, water may seep through the gaps. For example, when laying tiles on a balcony, if waterproofing is not done before laying, water may leak through the tile gaps into the structural slab.

Core of Waterproofing in Container Houses

The waterproofing of container houses mainly relies on the structure and waterproofing treatment of the container itself:

• Container Base Material and Process: Modern container houses are made of high-strength steel and undergo multiple processes such as rust removal, corrosion prevention, waterproofing, and fire prevention, providing resistance to wind, earthquakes, water, and moisture. For instance, the packed container houses manufactured by Nanjing Changyou Zhizao feature a top-bottom integrated welding structure with a built-in drainage system, effectively solving leakage problems.
• Sealing: Areas around doors and windows, container body joints, and roof gutters of container houses should be treated with sealant and replaced regularly (typically every 5-7 years) to prevent rainwater infiltration.
• Drainage Design: Container houses should be designed with a reasonable drainage system, such as adding an 'A'-shaped canopy on the roof and digging drainage ditches around the container body, to avoid water accumulation and corrosion of the steel plate.

Application of Tiles in Container Houses

If tiles are to be laid inside a container house, the following waterproofing measures should be taken:

• Base Treatment: Before laying tiles, ensure that the container floor is level, dry, and free of holes or rough surfaces. If necessary, seal them with cement mortar.
• Waterproof Layer Construction: Before laying tiles, apply a waterproof coating (such as polymer cement mortar or polypropylene fiber) on the base and conduct a closed water test. Only proceed with tile laying after passing the test.
• Gap Treatment: After laying tiles, fill the gaps with waterproof caulking agent to prevent water from seeping through the gaps.