Insulating a shipping container isn't a luxury: it's a strategic decision. Whether for an office, kiosk, storage space or mobile workshop, well thought-out insulation improves comfort, protects your assets and reduces your long-term costs.
In this article, discover :
the real benefits of insulation (and not just in winter)
the main techniques used in the industry
estimated costs and potential savings
common mistakes to avoid
case studies drawn from our own experience
An uninsulated container acts like a metal box exposed to the elements. The result is :
oppressive heat in summer
biting cold in winter
interior condensation, often referred to as "container rain
deterioration of stored materials (wood, electronics, textiles...)
🎯 Insulation helps stabilize temperature, limit humidity and make space habitable or functional.
There are several types of insulation, each with its own advantages:
Spray foam (polyurethane)
excellent air and moisture tightness
high insulating capacity (R6/inch)
adapts to all shapes
💰 higher cost, but outstanding efficiency
Rigid panels (e.g. polyiso, styrofoam)
easy to install on large surfaces
good performance/price ratio
must be airtight
Mineral wool (rock or glass)
good acoustic insulation
fire-resistant
must be protected from moisture
Reflective barriers
useful in hot climates
not very effective in Quebec alone, except as a supplement
🛠️ At Conteneurs Experts, we adapt insulation to the actual use of your container - storage, office, food, temporary housing, etc.
Interior insulation (20 ft.): from $3,400 to $3,900
Exterior insulation (a rarer option): more expensive, but useful if you keep the walls visible on the inside.
material losses due to humidity
uncontrolled heating or air-conditioning costs
employee or user discomfort
💡 On a temporary office project, good insulation can reduce annual heating costs by up to 40%.
Winter construction sites: comfortable project offices, even at -20°C
Outdoor sales kiosks or control stations: maintaining a stable temperature increases employee comfort and protects electronic equipment
Long-term storage: no more unpleasant surprises due to humidity or temperature variations
❌ Under-insulating: using a thin layer of insulation (often to save money) leads to condensation, cold, and ineffective insulation.
❌ Neglecting airtightness: even good insulation loses performance if air circulates between panels or through unsealed corners.
❌ Multiplying layers without thermal logic: adding vapour barrier, membrane, insulation, reflective barrier... without a coherent strategy can create the opposite effect and encourage internal condensation.
✅ Good insulation is a balance between thermal resistance, moisture management and durability. Experience in the field makes all the difference.
Insulating a container means extending its lifespan, improving your comfort and protecting what matters. For any project lasting more than a few days or involving valuable goods, insulation isn't optional - it's essential.
Contact us to discuss your project. Our team will recommend the right approach, based on your budget, usage and climate. We can even show you some recent projects.