How to Prevent Dampness When Converting Containers into Houses

Preventing dampness when converting containers into houses requires comprehensive measures in terms of material selection, structural design, construction treatment, and daily maintenance, as follows:

I. Material Selection

1. Dampproof Coatings: Choose dampproof coatings with functions such as anti-mold growth, high-efficiency waterproofing, corrosion resistance, and non-easy peeling. Apply these coatings to the surface of the container to prevent moisture from entering the interior from the source.
2. Sealing Materials: Use high-quality sealants to seal areas around doors and windows, container body joints, and roof gutters to prevent the infiltration of external rainwater and moisture. The sealants need to be replaced regularly, generally every 5 - 7 years.
3. Desiccants: Hang desiccant strips on the side walls of the container. For example, desiccant products with calcium chloride as the main moisture-absorbing component can effectively absorb moisture in the air inside the container and reduce humidity.

II. Structural Design

1. Independent Foundation: Place the container on pile foundations to keep it elevated and avoid direct contact with the ground, preventing the bottom from being soaked in moisture. This also serves to prevent dampness and pests and facilitates site leveling.
2. Ventilation Design: Install large floor-to-ceiling windows, roof skylights, and glass partitions to improve indoor ventilation and lighting, maintain air circulation, and avoid water accumulation and dampness.

III. Construction Treatment

1. Inspection and Cleaning: Before loading or renovation, check whether the container is dry and clean. If there are water stains or rust, thoroughly wipe them and ventilate until dry. Ensure that the door seals are intact and undamaged, and that there are no gaps in the door seams and vents.
2. Rust Prevention and Corrosion Protection: All cutting and welding incisions must be polished and coated with epoxy primer and topcoat. Inspect areas such as welds, corners, the bottom, and eaves annually. Immediately polish and repaint any small rust spots found. Determine the repainting cycle according to the climatic conditions of different regions.

IV. Daily Maintenance

1. Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect the sealing condition, rust prevention condition, and the usage of desiccants in the container. Replace ineffective desiccants and sealants in a timely manner.
2. Roof Cleaning: Clean the leaves on the roof annually. Strictly prohibit water accumulation on the roof, as accumulated water can quickly corrode the steel plate and increase the risk of moisture entering.