It’s rare for a day to pass without a reader getting in touch to ask us some frequently asked questions about container homes or simply to say hello!
In every email we receive, the same questions tend to crop up time and time again. So, we’ve decided to pen an article of frequently asked questions about container homes to address these queries.
1. What are container homes?
Container homes are residences, offices, or other buildings constructed using shipping containers. Whether the containers are new or used doesn’t matter. The only thing that matters is that shipping containers were used to build the structure.
If you want to learn more about where to start, read our introductory article: Everything You Need to Know Before Getting Started.
2. How expensive are container homes?
One of the main reasons people build with containers is their affordability. A typical container home can cost less than $80,000.
We’ve previously written about affordable container homes and covered the 5 cheapest container homes ever built.
Read about how these homes were constructed ranging from $20,000 to a maximum of $60,000. If you want to know even more, check out our full article titled How Much Do Container Homes Cost?
3. How do I build my own container into a home?
It’s fantastic that you want to build your own container! Constructing any kind of new home can be a challenge, and container homes are no exception to this. But as long as you’re determined and patient enough, you’ll be fine.
If you truly want to build your own container, we recommend you check out our guide. We wrote the guide to act as a one-stop-shop for everything you need to know. It’s perfect for enthusiastic entrepreneurs looking to learn all they need about building their own container.
You can find more information here: How to Build a Container Home from Scratch: The Complete Guide.
4. How do I insulate my containers?
Without a doubt, insulating your containers is one of the most crucial aspects of construction. If it’s not insulated or if you make a mistake, your container home will be rather unbearable. It’ll be cold during winter and too hot during summer. Insulating your containers might be confusing as there are so many different options available.
Read 5 methods to insulate your containers for more information.
5. What is the lifespan of my container home?
You should expect your containers to last at least twenty-five years without any issues. If you maintain the containers and stay on top of rust, you can expect them to last even longer.
Additionally, if you wrap your containers with an external layer like wood, you can expect them to last even longer. The main thing that will reduce the lifespan of your container is rust.
It’s important to regularly inspect your building for signs of rust. Treat rust spots as soon as possible.
6. In what climates can I build with containers?
We’ve seen container homes built in a variety of climates, ranging from the heat of Panama to the plummeting temperatures of Ontario.
The reality is, as long as you take necessary measures and ensure your containers are adequately ventilated and insulated, you can build your home in most climates.
7. Where can I buy containers?
Unfortunately, there isn’t a national database of container dealers. Still, it’s a relatively straightforward task. Your first step should always be to get in touch with your nearest port and see if they sell directly to the public.
They might not, however, they’ll definitely be able to put you in touch with trusted dealers in the area. If this approach doesn’t work, read our detailed article on how to buy containers.
8. Is it dangerous to live in a container home?
As soon as people learn about container homes, one of their initial thoughts is often: well, are these things safe?
This is a perfectly valid question. Most people looking to build a container home have children. It’s especially important for the container to be safe when children and the elderly are present.
We won’t go into detail here, but read our article on container safety if you’re looking for that. However, rest assured that if you take all precautions and appropriate steps, then, without a doubt, container homes are perfectly safe.
9. Where can I find contractors to build my container home?
Most people wanting to live in a container home build them themselves or with the help of friends and family. However, some people lack construction experience or simply don’t have enough time to build their own container, so they use a contractor.
The best way to find a contractor is to get in touch with other local container homeowners and speak directly to them. You might persuade them to build your container home.
Otherwise, they’ll surely be well-connected within the local area and able to put you in touch with the right people.
10. What kind of containers can I use?
If you’ve read our article on container dimensions, you’ll know there are different types of shipping containers. Sometimes, the variety of containers can confuse and overwhelm people when they’re deciding which containers to build with.
At present, the two most popular options are the standard 20-foot container and the high cube 40-foot shipping container. Whenever possible, choose a high cube container as they provide an additional foot of height.
11. Why do people live in container homes?
Still not convinced about living in a container home? Wondering what all the fuss is about?
We recently published results from a survey of over 700 people to find out exactly why individuals want to live in a container home.
The two overwhelmingly popular responses were cost savings and it being environmentally friendly.
Conclusion, Container Homes
We hope this article has managed to answer some of the frequently asked questions about container homes. We also hope you can see how passionate we are about building with containers.
If you’ve read through this entire article, you now know more than 95% of people. Soon, you’ll have enough information and confidence to plan, design, and construct your own container home. Let us know in the comments below if you have more frequently asked questions about container homes, and we’ll do our best to answer them.
