Shipping container homes are houses that are built using shipping containers. The strength, durability, availability, and the cost effectiveness of containers as building material has made these types of homes popular in recent years. When you buy a container, it might appear as hollow boxes with no windows or openings. However, these boxes are highly customizable; they can be stacked and welded together to create beautiful yet economical homes. The next section is about the pros and cons of living in a shipping container home.
1. The first advantage, is of course the cost; the cost involved in constructing a container home is much less than the cost of building a conventional home (for the same space and storage).
2. Container homes are eco friendly and support minimalist living; you will be using containers that are no longer used in the shipping industry, thereby helping to recycle them.
3. These containers are used for shipping heavy loads and thus are built to be durable and strong.
4. These homes can withstand extreme weather conditions (hurricanes) due to their structural strength.
5. Containers can be stacked horizontally and vertically to create multistoried buildings.
1. The material used in the construction of containers conduct heat very well. Thus temperatures drop and raise very steeply within the containers
2. Due to the above reason, it is important to insulate the containers and control the temperature.
3. Containers are also used to carry toxic and harmful substances. Thus, before buying a container, it is important to get it tested.
4. Most of the containers that are sold are fit for scrapping; this leads to the issue of tackling rust.
5. It is possible that solvents and harmful paints were used inside the containers, which if inhaled for long duration (living in the container) can be fatal.
6. Applying and obtaining a building permit for container can be a major hurdle, as container homes are usually not allowed in residential zoning areas.
Shipping containers come in two sizes: 20 feet and 40 feet.
The dimensions of a 20’ container are: 20’ (length) x 8’ (Width) x 8’6” (Height).
The dimensions of a 40’ container are: 40’ (length) x 8’ (Width) x 8’6” (Height).
From the above dimensions, the only variable is the length and choosing a 20’ or 40’ container depends on your needs and the number of people living with you. If you are planning to build a compact tiny house, a 20’ container will suffice. You can also stack the containers vertically to create more space and privacy. However, if you plan to stack two 20’ containers horizontally, think again – a 40’ container is a better alternative, as you will save money and effort used for welding two 20’ containers.
Once the size of the container is set, the next step is to decide on buying a new or used container.
While buying new containers defeat the very purpose of minimalist living and add to your expenses, but they offer you peace of mind, as they have never been used before for carrying cargo. You can also get customized containers delivered to your location – talk to the container dealer about the delivery charges. You can negotiate the container prices by allowing a one-time cargo shipment using your container.
Buying a used container is more economical and environmental friendly. Before buying a used container, get it tested for toxic substances. It is always important to walk through the container to get a feel of the place you will be living in. Ask your dealer if it has a watertight seal and if it was ever damaged (however small it was). Talk to your dealer about the warranty, compare prices of different sizes, and ask about the delivery charges of the unit to your place.
Even though you are building a container house, you must still submit your plans to the local building/planning authorities and get a permit. Your local authorities will be the ones to inspect your building and issue permits. It is a good idea to talk to the local authorities before you proceed with the construction. When you talk to them, inform that you are planning to build a house with modular steel sections and mention the use of containers in passing. Prepare a list of questions that you want to ask; following are some pointers:
a. Find out about zoning restrictions
b. Ask about the footage area requirements and restrictions (minimum and maximum area that is allowed)
c. Find out about the maximum height allowed
d. Collect details about the list of drawings and documents to be submitted for obtaining the permit
e. Check out the local building department website for relevant information
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