Can you use earthbags alongside shipping containers for insulation?

Choosing the Right Earthbag Fill

When using earthbags alongside shipping containers, it’s essential to choose the right fill material for optimal insulation performance. A mix of 10% cement to 90% aggregate (such as sand or small rocks) is recommended for a strong, durable, and well-insulating fill. This mixture can be poured into the earthbags, which are then stacked around the shipping container to fill any gaps and provide additional thermal mass.

Earthbag Placement and Design

To maximize the insulation benefits of earthbags with shipping containers, it’s crucial to design the earthbag system carefully. The earthbags should be placed tightly around the container, with a minimum of 1 inch of gap between each bag for drainage and to prevent moisture buildup. The earthbags can be stacked up to 4 feet high, with a layer of rebar and wire mesh in between to provide additional structural support. For optimal performance, the earthbags should be filled to a height of at least 3 feet around the container, with the remaining space filled with a secondary insulation material like fiberglass or spray foam.

Additional Considerations

Other factors to consider when using earthbags alongside shipping containers include the container’s size and material, the local climate and weather patterns, and the level of insulation required. In general, shipping containers with a smaller footprint (such as 8x20 feet) can benefit from a simple earthbag system, while larger containers (such as 20x40 feet) may require a more extensive earthbag design to achieve optimal insulation performance. Additionally, the earthbag system should be designed to work in conjunction with any additional insulation materials used in the shipping container, such as foam board or reflective insulation.