Another type of home that is surging in popularity is made using different sizes of shipping containers. Known as shipping container homes, they are widely popular across several countries due to a variety of perks like eco-friendliness, affordability, portability, and smart design.

The worldwide shipping container home market is expanding at a CAGR of 5.7%. It is expected to grow from $56.85 billion in 2021 to $87.11 billion by 2029. Ideal for single or multi-people use, these homes are becoming a go-to choice for modern homebuyers. 

Do you also wish to invest in a shipping container home? If yes, then this article will offer you six insider tips on mastering the construction process.

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Research Local Regulations

Just like any other property, shipping container homes cannot be built in a vacuum. They must adhere to certain local laws and regulations, permit requirements, and building codes. Before you begin, dig into your area’s local laws regarding the container home’s placement, size, design specifications, etc.

Failing to comply with local laws can have serious consequences in the form of hefty fines or even demolition of the project. In case of any doubts, consult with a zoning expert or local authorities to ensure all regulations are strictly followed.

Plan the Budget

Shipping container homes are indeed affordable, but that is no reason to skip budget planning. It is of paramount importance to create a realistic budget before the home-building process starts.

Besides the cost of the containers, you must accommodate other expenses like utilities, insulation, site preparation, and interior furnishing. Then, you must also make room for unforeseen costs that can add up pretty quickly.

At the time of preparing the budget, reach out to suppliers and contractors for a tentative project cost. With a well-defined budget, it will become easier to manage your finances, and there will be fewer shocks and surprises down the line.

Choose the Site and Containers Carefully

Container homes are mobile and portable, but you must choose their size and location carefully for comfort and functionality. While selecting the shipping containers, make sure they are in good condition. This means they must have no signs of structural damage, rust, or any hazardous materials.

Cross-check to know their origins and history to avoid any potential issues. Also, assess whether their layout and size will match your space and design needs. As for the site, consider factors like proximity to utilities, climatic conditions, and accessibility.

Furthermore, ensure the location’s soil conditions can support your shipping containers’ foundation. You can contact a geotechnical engineer for site inspection.

Pay Special Attention to Insulation

Similar to other properties, your shipping container home must offer energy efficiency and safety against the elements. This is only possible when you pay special attention to insulation. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires sellers to disclose the thickness, type, and R-value of the property’s insulation.

As per the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, insulation needs may vary depending on –

• Energy costs of each zone
• Changes in future costs
• Efficiency of heating/cooling equipment

There are many ways in which builders can help insulate new container homes. These include air sealing, moisture control, and crawl space ventilation. However, one aspect that often goes overlooked (but should not) is the roofing.

According to Peak Builders & Roofers of San Diego, a well-insulated roof will prevent long-term property damage and lead to significant energy savings. It can also reduce the noise being transferred from the container’s exterior to its interiors.

Never Compromise on Safety

One’s home is supposed to be a haven from the outside world, be it in terms of intruders, weather elements, foundational issues, etc. You cannot afford to compromise on safety and security.

This may mean the installation of reinforced doors and windows with shatter-resistant glass and locking systems. You can also install a surveillance device with alarms for peace of mind. But first, start with quality over quantity when it comes to choosing components for the container home’s foundation and roofing.

In case of structural modifications, make sure those areas are reinforced properly. Connect with a structural engineer to understand the required reinforcements. The same goes for secure roofing.

You can residential roofing installation. When safety is balanced with aesthetics, your container home can offer you a secure and comfortable living environment.

Let Your Creativity Flow

Perhaps the most exciting aspect of building a shipping container home is the scope for creativity. You have the freedom to think beyond conventional layouts and locations. Explore the different ways in which other people have established their container homes and be innovative.

For instance – you can have the different containers stacked one above the other, cut to a specific size, or configured for unique living spaces and outdoor areas. Bring your vision to life with the help of an architect exclusively experienced in building container homes. Innovative aesthetics can further maximize comfort and functionality.

On average, single-container home models cost between $25,000 and $80,000. As for multi-container models, the price may go as high as $250,000. These costs do not include other expenses that usually come attached to home-building. 

With the above-mentioned tips, you should be able to own a container home that reaches its life expectancy (75 years!).