Answering 5 Common Questions About Shipping Container Roofs

Container roofs provide an affordable and versatile storage solution for outdoor worksites. They’re used in plenty of local NZ industries like farming, mining, and construction.

But what exactly are container roofs, and how do they work? Leave it to us to answer.

At SEA Containers, we supply and deliver high-quality container roof kits and shipping containers to clients across New Zealand. In this post, we’ll go over five common questions about container roofs.

What is a Container Roof?

A container roof can refer to one of two things.

First, it might refer to the actual roof of a shipping container.

Secondly, it can refer to a roof between two shipping containers, otherwise known as a container shelter.

Container shelters come in many different forms. You might come across fully steel arches or gable roof designs that expand over the shipping containers.

A container shelter will most commonly feature a convex steel frame with a weatherproof fabric covering. This design is structurally sturdy but easy to disassemble and store, making it ideal for applications requiring portability and quick assembly.

As such, container shelters are often used as quick and easy storage areas or workspaces at temporary construction sites, military posts, mines, and more.

How Does a Container Shelter Roof Work?

Container shelter roof kits use shipping containers as a base—so they only require a relatively flat, large area for setup. Since there’s no need to construct a building foundation, you can set up a container roof relatively affordably without taking too long.

These container shelters consist of a separate steel frame and fabric covering. The number of parts involved depends on the shelter’s size. Smaller 20-foot container shelter roofs might only consist of 5 trusses and purlins, while bigger 60-foot roofs might use 6 double truss arches and purlins.

Because the frame is supplied in individual parts and the fabric covering can be folded up, it’s simple to disassemble and move container shelters across work sites—you can even store them within the shipping containers during transport.

Smaller container roofs are straightforward to install and disassemble because you can usually attach them to the shipping containers with bolts or clamps, saving time and money on welding.

What are the Benefits of a Container Roof?

Versatility

Container roofs are used across the mining, engineering, military, and industrial sectors. They’re ideal for storing products, vehicles, and equipment. You can also use them as temporary, sheltered workshops or rest spaces.

Ease of Installation

Most types of container roof kits are easy to assemble and disassemble, featuring separate frames and covers that attach to the containers without altering them permanently. This makes relocation simple—just pack up and move your shelters when necessary.

Durability

Container shelters provide a secure covering for storage and makeshift workspaces. Shelter covers are often made of UV-resistant, windproof, and fire-retardant materials, ensuring weather protection for your products and supplies.

How Much Does it Cost to Put a Roof on a Shipping Container?

Container shelter kits are generally more economical than other large outdoor shelters like sheds. Shipping containers are abundant and affordable, especially if you opt for a used container. Although these containers have transported products before, they are still durable and structurally sound as container shelter foundations.

Do Shipping Container Roofs Drain?

The arched shape of container shelters ensures no water stays on top of the shelter fabric. Instead, any rainwater will be directed to the shipping container roofs. Most shipping containers have four holes that help to drain rainwater effectively. However, it’s essential to regularly check your container roof to remove any sitting water if necessary.

Explore the Range of Container Shelter Roofs at SEA Containers

Container roof kits are an affordable and versatile solution for anyone needing a temporary shelter. At SEA Containers, we work with experienced suppliers to provide quality container shelters in three widths.

26 x 20 Container Shelter

20ft Container Shelter

26 x 20ft

40ft Container Shelter

40 x 40ft

26 x 20 Container Shelter

60ft Container Shelter

60 x 40ft

SEA Containers’ container roof kits are designed for durability over years of use. Our partners construct the frames from galvanised steel pipe, while the cover is a UV-resistant 650 gsm PVC fabric. Installation is easy with the supplied instructions, and we also offer to help with assembly if needed.

Ready to install your new container roof kit? Contact us at 0508 732 266 or [email protected] for your detailed quote.