Do This First: How To Waterproof A Shipping Container Home Floor

When building a shipping container home you must epoxy the floor! This is a very important step that some (unfortunately) don't know they should do or just forget altogether! You need to waterproof your subfloor.
Today we discuss the product we use to get this job done. We also detail the application process and throw in a few tips and tricks on how to epoxy the shipping container floor correctly.
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In this video, we discuss waterproofing the subfloor in a shipping container home build. To waterproof a subfloor, you need to use the correct epoxy product. We always waterproof the subfloor in each shipping container home build. To waterproof, the subfloor of a shipping container home use an epoxy. The epoxy will create a film over the subfloor and fill in any cracks the subfloor might have.

[@patrickconroy8729]

Nice work, thanks! Like your music too. You know there is a water based epoxy too that is available for about $120 for 5 gallons. Easier to work with, clean up, and smell. I have used it on concrete driveways with pretty good results. It wears off after about 5 years of outdoor use

[@danielthurston8226]

Thanks for the video, does the container need to be completely level before applying?

[@ryry7886]

Have you guys looked into sealing and insulating underneath? I would guess you'd probably have to tip it onto its side to do it but but it seems like it would be best to give it longer life and keep it safe from water damage and rust. Im thinking about trying a multiple box, multi story unit but there is definitely a lot more work than at first glance.

[@FarOutTinyHomes]

Absolutely!

[@johnm2482]

Does this prevent smells from old pesticides in the flooring?

[@INFIDEL1504]

I’ve been doing some research for a while and just ran across this video. I previously considered the garage epoxy kit as well then began leaning towards a clear epoxy (by Low V I think was the brand) instead. My main concern isn’t the appearance but more so to protect against the floors from off-gassing. Being that no one really knows what chemicals have been spilled onto or soaked into the floors of these containers, over the last 20 years, it’s a major health concern for me especially when considering making my containers into a gym or game room where people will be inhaling unknown chemical gasses. After using the garage kit epoxy, did you notice any off-gassing smells from the container’s original floor? Thanks in advance.

[@FarOutTinyHomes]

Hey! Thanks for watching. Unknown chemical exposure is definitely one of the reasons we seal the floor. We also do not accept any containers with the hazardous waste symbol on them. We have yet to receive a container with an off putting smell. Luckily, we have access to lightly used containers. Our best advice for you would be to consider purchasing a one way container. Containers of this type were used for one single trip. Make sure you do not receive a one way with a hazardous chemical warning and you should be just fine. FYI these containers are more expensive.

[@Step-n-Wolf]

I was looking at the spec and it only mentioned concrete as a surface?

[@kingjayden3840]

You install vinyl flooring directly over the epoxy? No installation board or plywood boards?

[@FarOutTinyHomes]

We epoxy our subfloor for extra protection then install the flooring

[@stephaniehalliday4143]

What if the wood floor panels are old, possibly slightly damp, or cracking? Should those boards be replaced before epoxy or can epoxy be put right on top once the wood is no longer damp?

[@stephaniehalliday4143]

The container is used for storing bins of costumes and the occasional hanging up of costumes along a closet rod.

[@FarOutTinyHomes]

That is a tough call. Water damage can be really tricky. I personally would rip them up.

[@stephaniehalliday4143]

@@FarOutTinyHomes That’s what I was leaning towards doing too! Thanks so much!

[@Grimbr13]

would sealing the wood with epoxy eliminate the danger of chemicals that are usually used on the floors when they are used in shipping?

[@FarOutTinyHomes]

Yes! The epoxy most certainly seals the wood.

[@iMmarkymark]

I am fixing to build a 4 container home and for me to use the epoxy would cost me a lot of money.

[@FarOutTinyHomes]

While container homes are an instance where materials can be repurposed they are definitely not a cheap build. There are quite a few steps a builder needs to take to insure life of the unit. We agree that sealing the floor is one of those steps. Best of luck to you on your build.

[@iMmarkymark]

@@FarOutTinyHomes I will be sealing the floors because to me its necessary. I will buy a little at a time now so when I'm ready to get it done I'll have what I need to seal all the floors.

[@FarOutTinyHomes]

@@iMmarkymark consider checking out EBay to purchase digital coupons from Lowe’s. While it’s an extra step it can help cover a little bit of costs.