Building a home from shipping containers is an increasingly popular option for those seeking an affordable, sustainable and eco-friendly living space. Container houses, also known as containerhomes, offer a low cost alternative to traditional “stick-built” homes with several key benefits:

Lower Cost – The cost of constructing a container home is significantly lower than a standard house. This is due primarily to the low cost of shipping containers themselves, which range from $1000 to $5000 each depending on size. Container homes typically cost between $100 to $250 per square foot to construct versus $150 to $400 for traditional homes.

Ease of Construction – Since shipping containers are prefabricated steel modules designed for stacking and transport, they can be quickly and easily placed on a prepared foundation. Contractors simply bolt or weld containers together then outfit the interiors. This makes for a much faster construction period compared to traditional building methods.

Sustainable Materials – Shipping containers are durable steel boxes designed to be reused many times over before recycling. Using containers as building blocks means exploiting their longevity, reflecting sustainable building principles.

Versatile Design – Contractors can join multiple containers horizontally or vertically to create larger spaces as needed. Additional doors, windows, siding and roofing can be added to containers to create functional and attractive living spaces.

Some common modifications made when converting containers into homes include:

Adding insulation – The steel walls of containers need to be insulated on the interior with materials like spray foam, rigid foam boards or fiberglass batts to increase energy efficiency and provide temperature control.

Improving lighting – Larger windows, skylights and doors are added to bring in natural daylight and improve livability. Strategic window placement can take advantage of views.

Finishing interiors – Interior walls are covered with drywall, wood panels or other materials for a smooth finished look. Flooring, electrical wiring and plumbing are also installed.

Adding systems – Necessary hookups for water, sewer and electricity are connected. An HVAC system and air conditioning may be installed depending on climate needs.

With the right planning and modifications, container homes can provide all the necessities for sustainable, eco-friendly and affordable living. Features like built-in storage, multifunctional furniture and high ceilings help prevent the feeling of confinement often associated with tiny houses.

For those seeking an affordable first home, downsizing option or “off-the-grid” sustainable living space, a carefully designed and built containerhouse can offer a lower cost alternative to standard construction while still providing functionality, comfort and low maintenance – all enabled by the easy-install nature of container buildings. As more people discover the benefits of low-cost container living, this construction method has the potential to reshape what is possible when building an affordable home.

flatpack container house

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