Are you thinking of insulating a shipping container to turn it into an office, warehouse or living space? The choice of insulation will have a direct impact on the performance, comfort and durability of your installation.
Here's what you need to know to make an informed choice.
Why insulating a container isn't like insulating a house
A container is a hermetically sealed metal box. Without insulation, it acts like an oven in summer and a freezer in winter. Condensation can also cause what's known as "container rain": moisture forms inside and damages your belongings.
🎯 Good insulation limits temperature variations, prevents condensation and improves air quality.
The best-performing option: closed-cell spray foam
✅ Why it's ideal for containers:
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High R-factor: approx. R-6 to R-6.5 per inch
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Excellent air and moisture tightness
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Adheres perfectly to metal walls
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Forms an integrated vapour barrier - no additional membrane required
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Fast, professionalinstallation
🧪 At Conteneurs Experts, we use products like Huntsman's Heatlok Soya HFO - an environmentally friendly, closed-cell foam that performs well and lasts.
Comparison with other insulations
| Type of insulation |
R factor / inch |
Advantages |
Limitations |
| Foam spray (closed) |
R-6 to R-6.5 |
Durable air + moisture barrier |
More expensive, requires expertise |
| Rigid panels |
R-5 to R-6 |
Good value for money |
Less airtight |
| Mineral wool |
R-3.5 to R-4 |
Soundproofing, fire-resistant |
Moisture-retaining, more fragile |
| Reflective barrier |
Low alone |
Useful complement in hot climates |
Not very effective in Quebec alone |
How much does it cost?
For a 20-foot container, spray foam insulation generally costs (in 2025) :
💡 These amounts include wall, ceiling and sometimes floor insulation. Good insulation can also reduce your energy costs by up to 40% on a winter project.
Mistakes to avoid
❌ Underestimating the thickness required: less than an inch is rarely enough in Quebec.
❌ Multiplying layers without a strategy: vapour barrier added unnecessarily, non-compatible materials
❌ Leaving thermal bridges: uninsulated corners, untreated floors
🛑 The metal of the container already acts as a vapour barrier. Adding a membrane can trap moisture in the walls.
Conclusion: spray foam = best choice in 90% of cases
Whether for a winter worksite, a mobile workshop or a comfortable workspace, closed-cell spray foam is the best-performing solution for insulating a shipping container.
It offers maximum performance, rapid installation, and long-term durability.
👇 Need advice on insulating your container?
At Conteneurs Experts, we're with you from design to installation. Talk to us about your project - we'll guide you towards the right solution, with no superfluous extras.
