An introduction to steel structure container houses
A steel container house is any dwelling built from shipping containers, but the resulting structures can be very diverse. Some using these compact spaces as small, self-contained units, others combine containers to build larger homes, removing walls to create more spacious interiors, as well as using traditional building methods to add exterior cladding and/ or insulation aswell as extra rooms. Here are some points regarding container buildings.
Contents |
[edit] Where to buy containers
If you buy a brand new empty container, it is likely to come from a Chinese manufacturer; the Chinese company CIMC produces around 82% of the world's steel containers. A used container is a more environmentally friendly and budget-friendly option. Take note of the different certifications, as some are certified to be able to ship goods overseas, while more stringent certifications specify containers that are wind and water resistant.
[edit] Advantages of containers
[edit] Container sustainability
Reusable and safe containers are a good example of construction using recycled materials, and container houses can also encourage a smaller footprint and reduce the use of other building materials such as timber and masonry. Homeowners who are open to alternative living spaces such as container homes often use other environmentally friendly elements such as solar panels, wind power, water recycling systems and rainwater harvesting systems.
[edit] Affordability
Shipping container homes are not always cheaper to build than traditional timber-frame homes, but they can be. There are many variables that affect the cost of a project, such as location, size, design, interior decoration and climate.
Containers come with flat metal roofs, exterior walls and a metal frame that doubles as a foundation - elements that are often referred to as potential cost savings. However transportation costs can be higher as they ae large units, as well as the need for insulation and interior decoration. If you want an already built container house, then the smallest, most basic unit can cost as little as $30,000.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
From engineered product life-spans, to their extension.
Circular economy in the built environment
A brief description from 2021. Where are we now?
Mental Health Awareness Week with ABS
Architects Benevolent Society programme of activity.
CLC publishes domestic retrofit competency framework
Roadmap of Skills for net zero.
May 13-19: Moving more for our mental health.
Understanding is key to conservation.
Open industry engagement survey seeks responses
Institutions and the importance of engagement.
National Retrofit Hub unveils new guide
Digital Building Logbooks and Retrofit: An Introduction.
Enhancing construction site reporting efficiency
Through digitisation and the digital revolution.
Noise in the built environment
BSRIA guide TG 20/2021.
17,000 people suffer conditions as a result of exposure to excessive noise at work.
Turning down the noise: Auditory health
A pervasive risk with far-reaching consequences.
Getting the most out of heat pumps and heating
How heat pumps work and how they work best.
Cost-of-living crisis and home improvement plans
Starting on the right footing and top tips for projects.
Electrotechnical excellence, now open for entries.