Are you thinking about a shipping container building project? Shipping containers are well-suited for home use because of their convenient size and their simplicity. However, things are never that simple, and building with shipping containers may still be accompanied by challenges. That’s why you need to be well-versed with these container home tips before using shipping containers to build your house. Check out our top container home tips before starting a container home building project.
Building with Shipping Containers: 6 Tips
Shipping Container Houses Need Insulation
Buildings made with shipping containers can be unbearably cold during the winter and extremely hot in the summers; that’s why you need to have a good plan for insulating. It’s advisable to seek information about insulating ideas from knowledgeable contractors.
Some of the available insulations include blanket-style insulation, foam insulation, and sheep wool insulation. Sheep wool and green roof are great options if you want to explore a sustainable and more green option.
Read More: Shipping Container Insulation 101
Local Permits and Regulations
It’s crucial to check your country’s set of rules and standards before buying a shipping container. This is something that most people assume or don’t think about but is actually very important. Different building codes have different restrictions when building a shipping container home.
Some of the things you need to check out before investing in your container home project include design choices, deed restrictions, and regulations imposed at the federal or state levels. While some states may be rigid with their regulations, some are relatively welcoming when it comes to shipping container homes.
Read More: Do I Need a Permit for My Shipping Container?
Differences in Container Conditions
It’s important to note that not all containers are in the same condition. For instance, it’s important to know what condition you are looking for in a container. You don’t want to end up with a container with rust holes, extreme dents, or other structural issues. One way to get a shipping container in great shape is by requesting the seller for detailed pictures and a description of the container. You might also consider investing more to avoid the extra expense of fixing a badly dented container.
Read More: Shipping Container Conditions Guide for Beginners
Off-Gassing and Pesticides
Most shipping containers have their wood flooring made with heavy pesticides to deter rodents from eating the flooring. The containers may also have paint that contains harmful chemicals to protect the containers from the ocean’s salty waters.
First, you can look for chemical-free containers or consider foam insulation when insulating the interior of your shipping container home. The foam insulation protects off-gassing from hazardous chemicals. Secondly, you can replace the pesticide-infested flooring with flooring that’s free from pesticides.
Plan for Pipes and Wiring
Planning your plumbing pipes and electrical lines is important when designing your shipping container home plan. Seeking advice or help from a professional and skilled contractor will save you the hassle.
Find a Contractor Well-Versed with Containers
Consider finding a contractor that is experienced with the entire process for convenience and high-quality finishing. Finding shipping container contractors may be difficult because it’s a relatively new niche in the building and construction industry.
Reach out!
While shipping container houses are sustainable and unique housing options, it’s crucial to understand the important things to know before you focus on container home building. So, if you need help or have any questions about how you can buy a shipping container in Oklahoma and the surrounding states, contact us at Twisted S Containers, and we will guide you through the process.
Read More:
Buying a Shipping Container: The Container Basics Guide