Is living in a shipping container something you’d want to try out? It’s understandable that homebuilders are increasingly exploring less traditional ways for housing given high real estate prices. So, shipping containers seem to provide a great solution. Apart from being a cheap option, they are also eco-friendly constructions, making them not only affordable but also practical. If we’ve gotten your attention, read on to find out how you can smoothly build your new shipping container home.
1. Get the right containers
There are several mistakes to make when acquiring containers for the purpose of creating a functional living space. The most prevalent one is buying a container too low in height. You don’t want to be slouching every time you move around your new home! So when you’re looking into the right shipping containers for sale, make sure to check for their height since they’re not universal. If you get containers with the added height, you’ll also ensure that there is enough area for insulation. Of course, height should not be your only concern. Make sure you get a container that is of high quality. Don’t settle for corroded containers full of leaks and other issues – the repairs are not worth the smaller price.
2. Consider the law
Rules and standards differ from country to country. Because of this, a container home in the United States will need to adhere to different rules than a container home in Norway, for example. So in order not to get into legal issues, read up on all the safety regulations and standards your new home has to meet. Most people don’t give it much thought and end up with a mountain of legal fees. You should also read up on different rules and regulations regarding fire, electricity, and water safety.
3. Insulation is key
Consider the climate in your area before deciding on the proper insulation solutions. Lining, cushioning, or panel options will all look different based on the area you live in. For example, if you’re setting up a home in a wet climate, the seamless vapor barrier is absolutely essential. On the other hand, if you’re located somewhere hot and dry, choose an option that will keep your cargo container cool and comfortable during the longer heatwaves. Also, make sure to calculate how much space your insulation padding will be taking up before you buy the container. You don’t want to lose square footage because of insulation.
4. Pick the right contractor
If you need some help with your construction, make sure to contact a local contractor. However, don’t choose the first contractor you come across. Make sure they’ve already worked with shipping containers and that they will not be winging it along the way. The worst mistake you can make is to hire someone who’s not taking their job as seriously as they should. So, set up a few interviews before you settle on the right person for the job, just so you’re certain everything will go as smoothly as possible.
5. Don’t forget to level the ground
For a shipping container house to look amazing and be functional, the ground you set it up on must be level. When you construct on uneven terrain, you run the risk of additional damage over time. Excavators or compactors are the machines you’ll need for this seemingly simple task. Of course, you don’t have to do this on your own. You may save time and effort by hiring a contractor if you don’t have access to the necessary equipment. Additionally, if you lack knowledge of operating construction machines, you should also consider relying on the help of a contractor. Staying safe during the construction stage should always be your top priority.
6. Concrete foundations will save you from sinking
One of the great benefits of shipping container homes is that they can easily be moved from place to place. However, though some people opt for this way of living just because of this reason, others want to make their shipping container homes a permanent housing solution. If you’re one of those people, make sure to lay a concrete foundation before you start construction. This relatively simple step will prevent your new home from sinking to the ground, making it a great long-term home not much different from traditional houses.
If you’re someone who cares about the environment and saving money, you should consider living in a shipping container home. Though it truly is an unconventional way of living, with proper planning, you can turn this simple way of living into a luxurious experience. By hiring the right contractor and purchasing only the best shipping containers you can obtain, you should be on the right path. Also, make sure to read up on all the safety regulations and standards before you start any construction work. Good luck on your new home journey!
