Reinforcement of Old Container Mobile Houses
The reinforcement of old container mobile houses requires comprehensive treatment from aspects such as structure, connections, the base, and rust prevention. The specific methods are as follows:

1. Structural Reinforcement
Old containers were originally designed for maritime transportation. After long-term use, they may suffer from structural fatigue or deformation. During reinforcement, it is necessary to focus on inspecting the roof load-bearing capacity and ground settlement. Especially for containers built before 2005, the ground load is generally designed for 3 tons/㎡. If heavy-duty shelves or equipment need to be placed, it is necessary to recheck and increase the load to over 5 tons/㎡. The reinforcement cost is approximately 80-150 yuan/㎡. Reinforcement methods include:
- Steel Frame Reinforcement: Add steel frames at the corners or weak load-bearing points of the container to enhance overall stability.
- Local Strengthening: Cut and replace severely deformed or corroded parts, or weld reinforcing plates.
- Load Rechecking: Recalculate the load according to usage requirements to ensure structural safety.
2. Connection Reinforcement
The connections between container modules are crucial for overall stability. During reinforcement, it is necessary to:
- Inspect Connectors: Ensure that bolts, corner fittings, and other connectors are not loose or corroded. Replace them with high-strength connectors if necessary.
- Add Connection Points: Add welded or bolted connection points between modules to enhance wind and earthquake resistance.
- Use Special Connectors: For example, use special container corner fittings to improve connection strength and durability.
3. Base Reinforcement
Containers used outdoors for a long time require special reinforcement at the base to prevent settlement or water accumulation:
- Concrete Piers: Pour concrete piers at the four corners or load-bearing column positions of the container to distribute the load and prevent settlement.
- Floor Treatment: If used as a permanent building, the ground needs to be hardened, such as laying a diamond-abrasive wear-resistant floor (with a cost of approximately 45-80 yuan/㎡) to improve load-bearing capacity and durability.
- Drainage Design: Add drainage slopes or pipes at the base to prevent water accumulation and corrosion.
4. Rust Prevention and Corrosion Protection
Old containers may have surface corrosion and require comprehensive rust prevention treatment:
- Surface Cleaning: Remove impurities such as rust and oil stains to ensure a clean surface.
- Rust-Preventive Coating: Apply rust-preventive paint or epoxy zinc-rich primer to enhance corrosion resistance.
- External Protection: Add anti-corrosion wooden exterior walls or metal decorative panels outside the rust-preventive coating for both aesthetics and extended service life.




