How to Insulate Storage Containers from Heat and Cold?

Both commercially and residentially, across various industries and for a wide variety of uses, storage containers are a staple for those seeking storage solutions. These sturdy units can be used across the country, meaning they withstand a whole spectrum of climates at very different extremes. In blistering heat and freezing cold alike, storage units provide irreplaceable space to their users.

But what happens to the items inside, the ones that can’t resist the effects of moisture from humidity or the deep chill of winter? This is where protective measures must come into play to properly care for your belongings and ensure they stay in the best condition possible while in storage. Due to impacts from weather, investing in effective insulation can make a huge difference in the state of your items.

Not sure how to insulate storage containers? Luckily, plenty of insulation options are available to preserve the contents of your storage container. Discover our storage container tips to find the ideal option to insulation for you!

Styrofoam

As one of the most inexpensive options for storage unit insulation, Styrofoam – also known as polystyrene – provides a quick and simple solution for those looking to insulate their storage container. Styrofoam consists of plastic beads fused together densely. In fact, many containers already come equipped with an inch of Styrofoam to effectively add a base level of protection to the belongings inside.

Styrofoam insulation is simply glued to the walls, rather than being bolted like other alternatives. Because of this, the polystyrene panels are flush with the wall, taking up the least amount of space inside your unit. This provides you with the most space possible, allowing you to use more for your items and less on the insulations themselves.

Spray foam

Spray foam is exactly what it sounds like – you spray the foam onto the walls of the storage unit, and it expands and sets in place. Although this method may not look as nice visually, it offers strong climate control, especially from condensation caused by moisture within your unit. It can even be used on the bottom of your container to stop moisture from the ground from damaging your items. Additionally, if you’re not a fan of its appearance, you can paint over it once dry or add walls over it.

This option is also more expensive due to the equipment needed to apply it. However, spray foam insulation also offers long-lasting, thick coverage, and it can fit into gaps easily because of its flexible nature.

Blanket insulation

Blanket insulation, which frequently comes in batts, is the most common type of insulation. This is typically the insulation found in attics, consisting of fluffy pink material. The name originates from the fact that these rolls of material are similar to blankets in appearance and consistency. It is applied by nailing or stapling to the wall, and it offers excellent protection against cold temperatures.

This form of insulation comes in a few different materials:

  • Fiberglass
  • Wools (sheep wool, slag wool, mineral wool, or rock wool)
  • Cotton

All of these options are extremely cost-effective and easy to install into any storage unit.

Mineral wool

This form of insulation, made from natural materials, can be divided into two categories: slag wool and rock wool. While slag wool is made of iron ore fibers, rock wool is made of stone fibers. Mineral wool insulation is great for preventing moisture. Additionally, its standout quality is the fact that it is nonflammable and able to combat temperatures of up to 1,800 ºF.

Mineral wool is also known for being a bit on the pricier side, but for people seeking a fire-resistant solution, mineral wool can provide peace of mind and confidence that your items are fully protected.

Loose-fill

Loose-fill insulation uses small pieces of insulation to fill a wall cavity. The material used to create this form ranges from recycled paper products to foam. This alternative is best for situations where the insulation will then be covered by a wall, or else the material would eventually cause a mess in the storage container.

This insulation type has two styles: open-cell and closed-cell. Open-cell isn’t as common and provides less protection generally, but it is more budget-friendly. Closed-cell, on the other hand, is the most popular insulation for shipping units, and it’s excellent for staving off moisture.

Find the best insulation for your storage container

Whether you’re looking to buy storage containers or rent storage containers, investing in the proper insulation measures is crucial to ensure you get the most out of your storage solution.

If you’re searching for a storage container to rent, look no further than Great Lakes Kwik Space. With affordable costs, reliable service, and products you can trust, count on us for your storage needs!

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