Shipping Container Homes - Pros, Cons & Costs

Container homes are exactly what they sound like; homes made from the steel shipping containers that you see carrying goods everywhere on trains, trucks, and ships. From these giant Lego blocks, people are building homes of all shapes and sizes.

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Shipping containers are generally available in 10ft, 20ft, and 40ft. The smallest shipping container can provide about 100 square feet of floor space for a shipping container home. Eight larger containers together can make a two-story house at about square feet. Hundreds of container micro-apartments together can make a huge apartment building.

Table of Contents

1. Pros of Shipping Container Homes
2. Cons of Shipping Container Homes
3. Are Shipping Container Homes Safe?
4. What Is The Standard Size of a Shipping Container Home?
5. How Do You Insulate a Shipping Container Home?
6. Can You Add a Roof to a Shipping Container Home?
7. What States Allow Shipping Container Homes?
8. How Much Are Shipping Container Homes?
9. How Long Does A Shipping Container Home Last?
10. Do Shipping Container Homes Rust?
11. Do Shipping Container Homes Hold Value?

Why are shipping containers being used to make homes, studios, cabins, and offices? Well, with about 14 million &#;out-of-service&#; containers in the world, there are lots of them available. And playing with giant blocks has a definite appeal!

Besides trendiness, interest in container homes is also part of a wider interest in saving money with prefabricated and modular homes. Many potential homeowners are looking for lower construction and maintenance costs. There is also a perception that container homes are contributing to recycling.

Could a container home be a good choice for you? Here are some pros and cons to consider.

Pros of Shipping Container Homes

Prefab Shipping Container Homes

Many shipping container homes are available as prefabricated modular homes, making construction time shorter. Some companies advertise delivery within 10 weeks! Most of the building code inspections are done at the factory, which makes things simpler and quicker. Or if you are designing a custom home or building a do-it-yourself project, the container gives you a fun prebuilt structure to work with.

Ease of Transport and Finding a Site

A worldwide system exists for moving containers around. Once they reach your site, they are relatively simple to set in place on a prepared foundation.

Shipping Container Homes Have Predictable Costs

Most of the work is completed on a factory floor for a fixed price. Delivery to the site, site preparation, foundation, assembly and utility connections are the only variable costs. That said, container homes are not always less expensive. Estimates vary, and some put the savings at 5-10%, depending on what you&#;re comparing against.

Recycled Shipping Container Homes

The environmental appeal of a container home is the idea that you are re-using a leftover product of the shipping industry to make a home. This can be a good thing, but as we will see, it&#;s not always true or the best thing.

Some of the advantages, like short construction time and predictable pricing, are the same for all prefabricated and modular homes, not just those made with shipping containers. But container homes benefit uniquely from the worldwide infrastructure built to move shipping containers. Even container home skeptics admit they can be useful where local building expertise is lacking or for emergency shelters that can be moved easily. In these scenarios, the versatility of container transport is a huge advantage.

Container homes are often marketed as being environmentally friendly because they are said to be made from used containers, thus conserving metal resources. There are lots of old shipping containers out there, no longer in circulation, and repurposing them into homes has a strong appeal. But is a container home really the best use of a container, from a sustainability perspective? Many would disagree.

Cons of Shipping Container Homes

Shipping Container Homes Are Not Always Effective Recycling

Most factory-built container homes are built from &#;one-use&#; containers that have only had a single trip. These containers tend to be in good shape, without dents or rust, so they are nice for building with, instead of containers that have gone &#;out-of-service&#; and may be damaged from years of use. Taking a box with lots of shipping life out of service after a single use isn&#;t effective recycling. And there is way more steel in a container than you need to build a house - if recycled as steel, it could make enough steel studs for 14 framed houses the same size.

Shipping Container Homes Could Have Structural Issues

A shipping container is very strong at the corners, but the roof is not that strong, so typically you need to build another roof over it, especially where there will be snow. Also, the corrugated steel walls are essential to the strength of the structure. This means anywhere you cut out a large window, or door opening requires new reinforcement. And when they are stacked together to make larger homes, welded (expensive) reinforcement is needed wherever two containers join at a spot that is not a corner. Any later renovations require significant engineering and welding.

What States Allow Shipping Container Homes?

Suburban and rural areas tend to be more open to shipping container homes; however, some states are visibly more open to alternative living. Texas, California, Tennessee, Louisiana, Missouri, Oregon, and Alaska are among the more progressive states that have, to some level, opened their doors to shipping container homes. Texas already plays host to many container homes. Even though California is known for its red tape, it has been open to container homes and hybrid container homes. Louisana and Tennessee experience some of the most lenient and forward-thinking zoning regulations in the United States. As alternative living options continue to grow, it's only a matter of time before more states in the country begin to allow shipping container homes in designated areas.

In the ever-tightening housing market of today, discovering affordable and practical ways to expand your living area is key. Given this reality, the innovative use of shipping container extensions offers a cost-effective solution for homeowners seeking additional space. 

These structures, known for their durability and versatility, can provide considerable extra room without incurring high construction costs. Therefore, shipping container extensions may indeed serve as the golden ticket for those aiming to broaden their horizons without breaking the bank.

What Are Shipping Container Extensions

Shipping container extensions are simply shipping containers that have been cleverly repurposed to create extra space in your home or workplace. Typically found transporting goods around the globe, these containers are skilfully transformed to create functional, cost-effective, and environmentally-friendly extensions. 

This creative approach to construction not only recycles these robust containers but also offers a unique, modern aesthetic for your home or business. So whether you&#;re thinking of a home office, a guest suite, or a chill-out zone, a shipping container extension could be the perfect solution.

Types of shipping container extensions

There&#;s a whole range of shipping container extensions out there, each with its own unique benefits and purposes. It&#;s not a one-size-fits-all deal &#; you&#;ve got options. 

Whether you&#;re looking at a simple single-container extension to add just a bit more room, or a more elaborate multi-container setup for a large-scale expansion, there&#;s a solution for every need and every budget.

Single container extensions

Single container extensions are a straightforward choice when it comes to adding more room to your property. Essentially, you take one sturdy shipping container and transform it into a liveable or functional space. 

Think of it like a ready-made room that&#;s just waiting for your personal touch.

Multi-container extensions

Multi-container extensions offer you the chance to create larger, more complex structures by joining several shipping containers together. You could piece together an entire guest house, a spacious home office, or even a multi-room extension to your existing home.

Hybrid shipping container extensions

Hybrid extensions take the concept of shipping container modifications one step further, merging containers with other building materials like wood or steel. 

This approach offers the best of both worlds &#; the strength and cost-effectiveness of a shipping container, and the aesthetics and flexibility of traditional building materials.

Shipping container extension sizes

Shipping container extensions offer a variety of sizes to cater to your specific needs and financial plans. The 20 foot and 40 foot options are the standard sizes typically used for shipping container extensions. 

However, don&#;t feel limited to these dimensions, there are both smaller and larger containers available to buy, ensuring there&#;s a suitable choice depending on your specific needs and preferences.

20-foot shipping container extensions

20-foot shipping container extensions are a common pick for smaller extension projects. Think home offices, guest rooms, or cozy art studios. 

With an interior space measuring around 19&#;4&#; in length, 7&#;8&#; in width, and 7&#;10&#; in height, it&#;s a compact yet surprisingly spacious option that can fit in most properties, making it a practical and popular choice for those looking to add a bit more space without going overboard.

40-foot shipping container extensions

If you&#;re planning a larger extension project, a 40 foot shipping container might be just what you need. These containers offer plenty of room for a variety of uses, from expansive living areas to structures with multiple rooms. 

With an interior measuring approximately 39&#;5&#; in length, 7&#;8&#; in width, and 7&#;10&#; in height, this size of container offers ample room for customisation and flexibility, and is a highly versatile solution to significantly boost the space in your home or property.

High-cube shipping container extensions

If you&#;re after an extension with a bit more vertical room to breathe, a high-cube shipping container extension could be your perfect match. These containers stand taller than the standard versions, boasting a height of approximately 9&#;6&#;, in contrast to the 7&#;10&#; height of standard containers. 

This extra headroom opens up a world of possibilities, like loft-style extensions, or spaces that benefit from higher ceilings such as art studios or home gyms.

Shipping container extension costs

When it comes to the cost of shipping container extensions, several factors can influence the final price tag. The size of the container, it&#;s condition (new or used), and the level of customisation you want can all play a part in determining the price.

DIY shipping container extension cost

For those handy with tools and ready to roll up their sleeves, doing a DIY shipping container extension can be an affordable option. A basic project, where you&#;re buying a used container and giving it a makeover with insulation, windows, and basic amenities, could cost as little as £7,000 to £11,000. 

It&#;s a cost-conscious way to get more space, as well as having the satisfaction of having done the work yourself. Remember, this is a ballpark figure and costs can vary, so proper planning and budgeting are key.

Basic shipping container extension cost

If DIY isn&#;t your thing and you&#;re looking for a more hands-off approach, a basic professional shipping container extension can be an excellent choice. A typical 20-foot shipping container, complete with insulation, windows, doors, electrical and plumbing systems, as well as basic flooring and wall finishes, could set you back somewhere between £14,000 and £21,000.

This option saves you the hard work, offers professional expertise, and still provides a cost-effective solution to add more space to your home.

Mid-range shipping container extension costs

If you&#;re aiming for something more than just the basics, a mid-range shipping container extension could be the way to go. For a budget of between £21,000 and £35,000, you can transform a 40 foot shipping container into a more luxurious space, complete with a kitchen or bathroom, custom modifications, and high-quality finishes. 

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This budget range also allows for more advanced electrical and plumbing systems, meaning you&#;re not only gaining extra space, but also a more comfortable, practical, and aesthetically pleasing addition to your home.

High-end shipping container extension cost

For those seeking a truly upscale addition to their home, a high-end shipping container extension with luxury finishes could be the ideal solution. Starting from around £35,000 and going up from there, your new extension could involve multiple containers, custom designs, and all the bells and whistles &#; from premium appliances and fixtures to high-end flooring and finishes. 

It&#;s about creating an extension that isn&#;t just about extra space, but also about luxury and style.

Benefits of Using Shipping Container Extensions

Shipping container extensions come with a wealth of benefits that make them an attractive option for many homeowners: 

• Durability &#; Built to withstand the high seas, these containers are incredibly durable, structurally sound, and even fire and rust-resistant thanks to their Corten steel exteriors. 
• Portability &#; They&#;re not just sturdy, but also portable &#; if you decide to move, your container extension can come along with you, offering a level of portability not found in traditional home expansions.
• Cost-effectiveness &#; Beyond durability and flexibility, these extensions are also incredibly cost-effective. They often present a more affordable alternative to traditional home additions, without compromising on the quality of the space.
• Sustainability &#; These containers are also a great eco-friendly choice, by repurposing these steel structures, you reduce waste and promote sustainability.repurposing materials and reducing waste. 
• Customisation &#; They can be customised to match your style and meet your needs, offering a wealth of design possibilities. 
• Quick installation &#; Shipping container extensions can be installed quickly and easily, making them a convenient choice compared to traditional construction methods.

Shipping Container Extension Ideas

When it comes to shipping container extensions, the possibilities are virtually endless. These versatile structures offer a cost-effective solution to a range of space-related challenges or even business opportunities. 

Whether you&#;re in need of extra living space, a dedicated home office, a creative studio, a guest house, or even a motorbike storage area, shipping container extensions can fulfil these needs with ease.

Home extensions

When it comes to home extensions, shipping container extensions offer an excellent solution for adding that much-needed extra living space. Whether you require additional bedrooms, a cozy living area to entertain guests, these versatile structures can be seamlessly integrated into your existing home.

Home office or workspace

With the rise of remote work and the need for dedicated workspaces, shipping container extensions offer an ideal solution for creating a separate home office or workspace. 

These versatile structures can be customised to meet any specific requirements, from a quiet space for focused work to a professional setting for client meetings or a creative studio for artistic endeavours. These extensions provide a customisable and cost-effective option to establish a dedicated area for focused work, boosting productivity and separating work life from home life, right in your backyard. 

Guesthouse or Airbnb rental

Shipping container extensions present an excellent opportunity to create standalone guesthouses or Airbnb rentals, allowing you to generate additional income. 

By capitalising on the growing popularity of alternative accommodations, such as shipping container rentals, you can unlock the potential to earn extra income while providing a one-of-a-kind experience for your guests. These extensions can be transformed into comfortable and stylish accommodations that cater to guests seeking a unique and memorable stay.

Swimming pool or hot tub enclosure

With some customisation and ingenuity, shipping containers can be creatively modified to serve as enclosures for your pool or hot tub, providing a unique and functional space for relaxation and recreation.

Garden shed or greenhouse

For gardening enthusiasts, shipping container extensions can be transformed into functional garden sheds or even greenhouses. These extensions provide a convenient and customisable space to store gardening tools, supplies, and equipment, keeping everything organised and readily accessible. 

By adding windows, ventilation systems, and shelving, shipping container extensions can also serve as greenhouses, creating a controlled environment for nurturing plants and extending the growing season.

Additional storage space

When it comes to storage needs, shipping container extensions offer a practical solution for accommodating items that may not fit in your main house or garage. These extensions can serve as valuable additional storage space, keeping your belongings secure and organised.

How to Extend Your House With a Shipping Container

From choosing the right container and preparing the site to modifying the container and connecting it to your utilities, there are several key considerations to keep in mind when extending your house with a shipping container.

Plan your shipping container extension design

Before purchasing a shipping container, plan out the design for the extension. Consider factors such as how the extension will connect to your house, the placement of doors and windows, and any necessary electrical or plumbing installations.

Consider planning permissions and regulations

Before proceeding with your shipping container extension, Check with your local authorities to determine whether you need a building permit for the shipping container extension. Regulations may vary, and it is important to determine whether you require permits or inspections for structural modifications or electrical work involved in the container extension project. 

Being aware of and adhering to these requirements ensures compliance with local building codes and promotes a smooth and hassle-free process.

Prepare the site for the extension

To prepare the site for your shipping container extension, it is essential to ensure a level and stable foundation. Assess the area where the container will be placed and make any necessary preparations. 

Depending on the specific location, you might need to pour a concrete foundation or install a retaining wall to provide a solid and level base for the container. This step is extremely important to ensure the structural integrity and longevity of your extension.

Modify the shipping container

When it comes to modifying the shipping container for your extension, we recommend collaborating with a professional contractor who specialises in container modifications. They can help you bring your vision to life and ensure that the modifications align with your specific requirements. 

This process may involve cutting out windows and doors to enhance natural light and accessibility, installing insulation to your shipping container to regulate temperature, incorporating electrical wiring for lighting and power outlets, and adding flooring and interior finishes to create a comfortable and inviting space. 

Build your shipping container extension

Once you&#;ve completed the necessary preparations, it&#;s time to embark on the construction phase of your shipping container extension. While these additions generally take less time to build compared to traditional home expansions, some preparatory work is still required. 

Depending on your desired aesthetic, you can choose to leave the corrugated surface of the container exposed on one side, embracing an industrial/modern look. However, if you prefer a more traditional look, you have the option to clad the walls with materials that match your existing home or reflect your desired style. 

It&#;s important to note that attaching a shipping container to your existing home may involve significant demolition work and potentially complex roofing issues. There are a couple  of different options for building your shipping container extension.

Integrated Construction

When opting for integrated construction, there are ascertain key factors to consider before proceeding with building directly onto your home.

Involve a structural engineer who will assess your home&#;s structure and determine the necessary steps to ensure a safe and secure addition. 

Another critical aspect to address is confirming that the wall you plan to open up can still bear the weight of the entire house.

Standalone construction

If the expense of constructing an addition is a concern, standalone construction presents a viable and cost-effective alternative where a separate room is built adjacent to the house and connected via a small breezeway. 

By opting for this approach, you can still expand your living space without the need for extensive structural modifications or integration into the existing house, ultimately offering a practical solution that meets both your needs and budget.

Connect to utilities

Depending on your specific requirements and local regulations, you may need to connect your shipping container extension to your house&#;s utilities, such as electrical and plumbing systems. 

It is highly recommended to engage the services of a professional electrician or plumber to ensure that the connections are done safely and comply with building codes. Their expertise will help ensure that the electrical and plumbing systems in your shipping container extension are properly integrated with your existing utilities, providing functionality, safety, and peace of mind.

Finish the shipping container extension interior

Once the structural work is completed, it&#;s time to complete the interior of your shipping container extension. Finish the space by selecting and installing the desired flooring, whether it&#;s hardwood, tile, or another material that suits your taste and purpose. 

Depending on the purpose of the extension, you may want to install fixtures such as lighting, plumbing fixtures, and appliances. 

This is the stage where you can truly customise the interior to reflect your personal style and meet your specific needs. By paying attention to these final details, you can transform the container into a functional and inviting space that seamlessly integrates with your existing home or stands as a standalone structure.

Conclusion

Shipping container extensions provide a cost-effective, versatile, and innovative solution to address various space-related needs. Whether you&#;re looking to add extra living space, create a home office, build a guesthouse, or explore other possibilities, shipping container extensions offer endless opportunities for customisation and functionality.

With proper planning, collaboration with professionals, and adherence to building regulations, transforming a shipping container into an extension can be an exciting and rewarding endeavor. By considering the benefits, costs, and various design ideas discussed, you can embark on your journey to expand your living space and unleash the potential of shipping container extensions.

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