Have you been inspired by the idea of upcycling a shipping container into your new home?
Shipping container affordable housing is becoming more common as mainstream housing prices continue to rise. As this is still a relatively new idea, all the details have not yet become common knowledge. So, let take a closer look at some of the ins and outs of this alternative minimalist dwelling units.
Shipping Container Affordable Housing
What you see stacked high on ships are now being used as building materials for the latest tiny homes and sometimes even trendy businesses. The containers themselves are reasonably priced, especially for a used one.
Of course, there are a lot of other costs to factor in, but for the price of one or two months of a mortgage, you could easily purchase a pre-owned container and begin the buildout process.
Where Will You Put It?
Before we even begin talking about the details of living in shipping containers, you’ll need a place to put your new home. Do you have a piece of land, or are you planning on shopping for one? Flat land is suggested, and privacy (no neighbors) is always nice.
Also, will you go all the way and live “off of the grid,” or are you just after a non-traditional style home? If going of the grid, Solar panels or wind power can serve as a good alternative source of electricity.
Talk To Your Local Municipality First
Not to scare you off of the idea, but there are horror stories about people building a shipping container home, and having to tear it down because they didn’t have the proper permits. Don’t be like those people, get all of your permission slips before making this journey.
Shipping Container Providers
The best move that you can make is to purchase your shipping container from someone who deals with them all the time, and in a professional manner. Buying shipping containers from a local container depot is recommended over a random internet marketplace find.
Picking Your Pros
It is never too early to start planning on who will be doing the work on your shipping container home. Will you hire an architect, or will you design the floorplans yourself? You will need all kinds of home building experts. Electricians, plumbers and metal fabricators to name a few.
Advantages of a Shipping Container Home
This non-traditional style home comes with many perks.
Here is just a few,
The list of advantages goes beyond this short list, but this is a good start.
Disadvantages of a Shipping Container Home
As always, it is best to look at the cons, as well as the pros of the situation.
- Challenging to insulate
- Difficult to cut
- Narrow in length
- Finding building contractors with experience
The more of a challenge it is to build your shipping container home, the more you will appreciate it in the end.
Take that first step!
Yes, there is a lot to think about and plan for, but if you really want it then just go for it! Building a shipping container affordable home can be an unique, fun, and rewarding experience.
Do you have more questions about shipping containers? Texas-based Equipment Management Services (EMS) is the local leader in the container supply and modification industry. They are ready to help answer any/all your queries, contact them today!