How do I maintain the cover of my container shelter?

When you purchase a container shelter, you want it to last as long as possible. The cover is the most sensitive part of the shelter, and proper maintenance really makes a difference in its lifespan. At Kroftman, we have been working with PE and PVC covers for over 15 years, and in this blog we share our best tips.

The advice below applies to both PE and PVC, unless stated otherwise.

A container shelter is constantly exposed to the elements. Sun, snow and wind loads all affect the material. By understanding how this works, you can prevent issues and extend the lifespan of your cover.

1. Choose a white cover when purchasing

A preventive tip that is often underestimated: preferably choose a white cover.

Why? Every cover contains plasticizers that keep the material flexible. Under the influence of sunlight, this content gradually decreases, causing the cover to become stiffer and eventually crack.

• Dark green cover: absorbs heat → faster ageing.

• White cover: reflects heat → demonstrably lasts longer.

• Transparent cover: not recommended; less UV protection, discolors faster and becomes hard and brittle sooner.

Want maximum lifespan? Choose PVC. PE has a shorter lifespan and is more sensitive to UV exposure.

2. Always keep the cover tightly tensioned

A tightly tensioned cover is essential for a long lifespan. As soon as a cover hangs too loose, it will start flapping. This causes wear and can eventually lead to tearing.

Tension is also important during snowfall:

• a loose cover forms a hollow where snow can accumulate;

• a tight cover allows snow to slide off more easily due to the arch.

Therefore, regularly check whether the cover is still properly tensioned.

3. Remove snow if it remains on the roof

Sometimes, despite proper tensioning, snow does not slide off the roof by itself. In that case, it’s important to take action. This can easily be done by gently pushing against the cover from the inside with a broom.

Snow that remains on the containers and touches the cover at the sides is not a problem.

4. Choose a sheltered location for installation

Not always possible, but definitely worth considering. Sun and wind have a major impact on the lifespan of a cover.

Sun: In areas where the cover touches the structure, heat cannot dissipate as easily. With prolonged, direct sunlight exposure, the material wears faster in those spots. This happens more quickly with:

• PE than with PVC

• a dark cover than with a white one

Wind: In locations with constant wind, the cover is continuously under tension. A sheltered location reduces this strain.

5. Regularly check for small tears

Tears can occur due to wear, sharp objects or strong winds. The sooner you detect them, the easier they are to repair.

• PVC covers can be repaired using a Kroftman repair kit

• PE covers are hardly repairable; replacement is usually the best option

By inspecting regularly, you prevent small tears from becoming larger problems.

6. Store the cover dry when dismantling

Are you (temporarily) dismantling the shelter? Preferably do so on a dry day, so the cover can be packed away dry. A wet stored cover may develop stains later. This does not affect quality, but it looks less appealing.

It doesn’t matter whether you fold or roll the cover; the coating can handle folding without tearing.

7. Cleaning is not necessary, but possible

Cleaning the cover does not extend its lifespan, but it can help maintain a neat appearance. As the cover ages, small cracks in the coating may trap some dirt. This is purely cosmetic.

If you choose to clean it:

• Use lukewarm water

• Avoid aggressive cleaning agents or high pressure

8. How long does a cover last?

At Kroftman, we apply the following warranties:

• (HD)PE cover: 3-year declining warranty

• PVC cover: 10-year declining warranty

These warranties provide a good indication of the expected lifespan. The actual lifespan depends on factors such as sun and wind exposure, location (e.g. coastal areas), and how often the cover is assembled and dismantled.

In summary: how to maximize the lifespan of your cover

✔ Choose white (preferably PVC)

✔ Keep the cover tightly tensioned

✔ Check and remove snow

✔ Choose a sheltered location

✔ Inspect regularly for tears

✔ Store the cover dry

Want to know which cover best suits your situation? We’re happy to think along with you.