Watch How Fast She Patches a Hole on a Shipping Container! - Easy Fiberglass Fix - Cures Rock Hard!

Channing McCorriston
Watch How Fast She Patches a Hole on a Shipping Container! - Easy Fiberglass Fix - Cures Rock Hard!



We have a container with a hole in the side of it and we need to patch it up! We've got some pretty cool patches to show you guys and if you got a tiny little hole in your Sea Can, these things are the perfect fix!

They conform to irregular surfaces and they dry within five minutes with UV light and harden just like fiberglass!

How to Repair a Hole in a Shipping Container Using a Fiberglass Patch

Repairing holes in a sea can does not always require welding or heavy fabrication. In this demonstration, a fiberglass patch is used as a fast and durable solution for sealing damaged areas in a shipping container.

This method acts as a practical “Band-Aid” fix, ideal for small to moderately sized holes, especially when working in the field without access to welding equipment.

Why Use a Fiberglass Patch?

Fiberglass repair patches offer several advantages:

  • Conform to irregular or uneven surfaces

  • Cure quickly under UV light

  • Require no welding

  • Are paintable after installation

  • Provide a durable, fiberglass-like finish

While welded corrugated patches are the most permanent structural repair, fiberglass patches can serve as either a temporary solution or a long-term fix depending on the damage and application.

Step-by-Step Repair Process

1. Assess the Damage

Start by evaluating the size and shape of the hole.

If metal is bent outward, flatten it with a hammer to create a smoother surface for the patch to adhere to.

2. Prepare the Surface

Surface preparation is critical for proper adhesion.

The damaged area must be:

  • Clean

  • Dry

  • Free of loose rust or paint

Preparation methods may include:

  • Scraping off loose paint

  • Using a wire wheel on an angle grinder

  • Removing corrosion buildup

In colder temperatures, lightly heating the metal surface with a torch can improve adhesion and help moisture evaporate.

3. Apply the Fiberglass Patch

Place the patch directly over the hole and press it firmly into position.

The material is flexible and will conform to corrugations and irregular shapes.

Once positioned, remove the outer plastic layer and ensure full contact with the metal surface.

4. Cure Under UV Light

Fiberglass patches cure under ultraviolet light.

Place the container in direct sunlight or expose the patch to a UV source. The patch hardens within approximately five minutes.

After curing, it becomes rigid and durable, similar in strength and feel to fiberglass.

5. Finish the Repair

Once hardened:

  • Paint the patch to match the container

  • Seal the interior side with caulking or silicone if desired

Interior sealing helps smooth sharp edges and improves overall appearance.

Performance in Cold Weather

These patches can be used in temperatures below freezing, provided the surface is warmed prior to application.

Ensuring the steel is dry and slightly warm improves bonding and curing performance.

Advantages of Fiberglass Patching

  • Fast curing time

  • Minimal tools required

  • No welding skills needed

  • Low cost

  • Paintable finish

  • Suitable for irregular surfaces

  • Usable in remote or field environments

The repair process is accessible and efficient, making it ideal for quick fixes.

Limitations to Consider

  • Large structural damage may require welded reinforcement

  • Proper surface prep is essential

  • Application is generally best done from the outside

  • UV exposure is necessary for curing

  • The patch is semi-transparent until painted

For heavily load-bearing sections, welding remains the preferred long-term solution.

Additional Uses

Beyond shipping containers, these fiberglass patches can be used on:

  • Boats

  • Hot tubs

  • Sewer pipes

  • Other metal or composite structures

Their versatility makes them a useful addition to maintenance toolkits.

Key Specifications

  • Curing time: Approximately 5 minutes under UV light

  • Effective in cold conditions with surface heating

  • Suitable for moderately sized holes

  • Paintable and weather resistant

Final Thoughts

Fiberglass patches provide a practical and cost-effective method for repairing holes in shipping containers.

While not a replacement for structural welding in every scenario, they offer a fast, durable, and accessible solution for many common damage situations.

With proper surface preparation and UV curing, this method delivers reliable results that can extend the life of a container without extensive fabrication.