Buying a container barn door with corrugated metal can be a valuable investment in many ways. With it, you can dismantle and assemble large-load logistics to be transferred around the world without much trouble.
A barn door with corrugated metal is also a fantastic way to enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. This door style offers rustic charm, modern durability, and easy access for your container home, office, workshop, or storage unit.
To know the benefits of a barn door with corrugated metal and its installation process, read this article until the end!
Why Choose a Barn Door for Your Container?
Space-Saving Operation
This type of door will allow you to slide along a rail instead of swinging out, perfect for tight spaces. With that, you also do not need a clearance area like traditional hinged doors.
Easy to Install & Customize
The barn door with corrugated metal can be mounted on the interior or exterior of the container. It works with standard sliding hardware or heavy-duty rail systems. In addition, the barn door with corrugated metal uses panels that match the industrial container aesthetic.
Durable & Low Maintenance
Corrugated metal is weather-resistant, rust-resistant (especially if galvanized or painted), and long-lasting. Therefore, it is less prone to warping or cracking than wood.
Stylish, Rustic-Industrial Vibe
The barn door with corrugated metal is great for modern farmhouse, industrial, or minimalist designs. It adds visual interest and blends well with container siding.
Components You’ll Need to Install Container Door
When installing a container door, you will need several components to do it successfully. They are:
- Corrugated metal panel: Cut to door size, which usually matches container siding.
- Steel or wood frame: This supports the panel and adds rigidity.
- Sliding track hardware: Heavy-duty rail system for smooth operation.
- Wheels/rollers: Mounted to the top of the door for gliding along the rail.
- Handle & lock: Optional for added security and convenience.
Installation Process
Installing a barn door with corrugated metal on a shipping container is a great DIY project that combines functionality and aesthetics. Whether it is for your container home, shop, or storage unit, here’s a step-by-step guide to get it done right.
Measure and Plan
In this step, you need to measure your container opening. Add 4-6 inches on each side for overlap (so the door fully covers the opening). Make sure you have enough wall space for the door to slide open.
Build the Door
Cut corrugated metal to your desired size. Then, build a frame using steel or wood to reinforce the metal panel (usually rectangular tubing or 2x4s). Attach the metal panel to the frame using screws or rivets. For structure or insulation, add plywood backing.
Mount the Sliding Track
Use a level to mark a straight line above the container door. Drill holes through the steel skin of the container to mount the sliding rail (use self-tapping screws or bolts with backing plates). Secure the track firmly with anchors or bolts and ensure it is perfectly level to prevent dragging.
Attach Rollers to the Door
Mount the rollers or hangers to the top of the door frame. Then, make sure they’re evenly spaced and aligned with the track.
Hang the Door
Lift the door and hook the rollers onto the rail. Then, test the door to ensure it slides smoothly and doesn’t tilt.
Add Stops & Guides
Install end stops on the track to keep the door from sliding off. You can add a floor guide at the bottom to prevent the door from swinging or banging.
Add Finishing Touches
Install a handle on the outside (and inside, if needed). Add a locking mechanism like a padlock, slide bolt, or latch. Last, Paint or seal the frame and metal to protect against rust and weathering.
How to Open a Container Door to Keep it Durable
Opening the container door can be a challenge, especially if your container is newly purchased. At first, it can be quite difficult to open the container door as it is made of this heavy material. However, you may shorten the life of the container if you use too much force while opening its door. Therefore, follow these steps to open the container door safely!
Open the Padlock
If you have a padlock on your container, you must first open it. Usually, this padlock is on the right side of the door. Its function is to prevent unauthorized people from opening the container. You can open it with a series of combination numbers or a special key.
Open the Container Door from the Right Side
Start by opening the container door from the right side. There are two handles placed in a horizontal position. Pull this handle, and when you manage to pull it to a 90-degree angle, the door will open. Do not force the container door open without using this handle.
Use Your Leg Strength
The container door is heavy, but you can outsmart it by using your leg strength. After doing the same procedure as the left door, hold both sides of the container handle and pull using the strength of your legs. This is important to avoid back cramps.
Conclusion
A barn door with corrugated metal is a practical, attractive upgrade for your shipping container. It’s easy to operate, space-efficient, and built to last while offering a distinct look.
To have a durable and strong shipping container, buy or rent from Tradecorp now! Standing at the top of the industry, Tradecorp is widely known for its high-quality containers open to many creative applications. Fill out our quote form and we’ll guide you in finding the best container for your business goals!