How To Assemble & Install Window Kits on a Shipping Container - DIY Installation

Chuck Prongua
How To Assemble & Install Window Kits on a Shipping Container - DIY Installation

How To Assemble & Install Window Kits on a Shipping Container - DIY Installation

In this video, we are going to show you how to assemble Container Modification World’s Weldless Window Kit and install it on the end wall of a shipping container. In the first part of this video, we will focus on the assembly of the window frame, and the second part will focus on the installation instructions.

What Comes With Container Modification World’s Weldless Window Kit:
- Frames (Header, Footer, and Side Frames)
- Flanges (Top, Bottom, and Side Flanges)

Rivets Tools Required:
- Drill - Rivet Gun
- Silicone - Marker
- Ruler or Level
- Cardboard or Flexible Ruler for Corrugations
- Angle Grinder & 6” Cutting Wheel



Purchase Container Modification World Products Featured in The Video


How to Install a Modular Window Framing Kit in a Shipping Container

In this walkthrough, Channing McCorriston, The Container Guy, demonstrates how to assemble and install a modular window framing kit designed specifically for shipping containers.

The process focuses on proper alignment with corrugations, weatherproofing, structural integrity, and long-term durability. When installed correctly, the system provides a clean, secure, and leak-resistant window solution.

What’s Included in the Window Framing Kit

The modular window kit consists of:

  • Header

  • Footer

  • Two vertical side frames

  • Header flange

  • Footer flange

  • Two side flanges

  • Rivets for assembly

  • A vinyl window with a one-inch nailing fin

The framing components are engineered to align with the container’s corrugation pitch to ensure a proper fit and weather seal.

Window Sizes and Corrugation Alignment

Window sizes are designed around the container’s exterior corrugations to ensure proper sealing and structural integration.

Sidewall window options typically include:

  • 36-inch width

  • 48-inch width

End wall window options commonly include:

  • 40-inch width

  • 60-inch width

Matching the corrugation pitch is critical for a watertight installation.

Frame Assembly

Assembly begins by joining the header, footer, and side frames using rivets.

The header is designed so its corrugation sits directly on the container, allowing water to drip away from the window opening. An internal return flange tucks beneath the header flange, creating an additional barrier against water intrusion.

During assembly, slight squeezing of the frame may be required to align rivet holes precisely.

Installing the Window into the Frame

Clear silicone sealant is applied around the window perimeter before installation.

The vinyl window is placed into the frame, and the flanges are installed toward the window side. This orientation sandwiches the window’s nailing fin between the flange and frame, locking it securely in place.

This design provides a tight seal while still allowing flexibility to accommodate minor container movement, reducing the risk of glass cracking.

Drain holes at the bottom of the window frame allow any incidental water to exit safely.

Marking and Cutting the Container Wall

Precision is essential before cutting.

The outside flange of the window frame secures to the exterior corrugation, so the opening must be carefully marked. A common installation height is approximately 900 millimeters, or about three feet, from the interior floor channel.

Using magnetic levels and straight edges improves marking accuracy. A custom marking tool made from scrap corrugation can help transfer marks consistently across interior ridges.

When cutting:

  • Make the bottom cut first to avoid panel weight pinching the cutting disc

  • Leave small uncut sections to create a controlled hinge

  • Tack weld or manage the cut panel to prevent sudden drops

This technique prevents damage to both the panel and surrounding steel.

Installing the Framed Window into the Container

Once the opening is cut:

  • The header flange slides behind the container corrugations

  • Side flanges are riveted to the corrugations

  • The footer is secured with additional rivets

Final sealing is completed using clear silicone around potential water entry points. Almond-colored silicone may be applied over the frame to blend visually and add another layer of weather protection.

Best Practices for a Successful Installation

  • Ensure flanges face the window side to properly secure the nailing fin

  • Align the frame precisely with corrugations

  • Use silicone generously but cleanly

  • Cut carefully to maintain structural control

  • Allow for slight container movement to protect the glass

Why This System Works

The modular window framing kit is engineered to:

  • Maintain structural integrity

  • Provide proper drainage

  • Align with corrugation pitch

  • Prevent leaks

  • Allow controlled flexibility

The result is a clean, professional window installation suitable for both sidewall and end wall applications.

Final Thoughts

Installing a window in a shipping container requires more than simply cutting a hole and inserting glass.

By aligning with corrugations, assembling the frame properly, sealing carefully, and allowing for structural movement, you create a durable, weather-resistant solution that performs long term.

This modular kit approach simplifies installation while delivering professional-grade results.