Shipping Container House Vs Brick and Mortar Building
Container homes provide a less expensive, and more sustainable alternative to traditional brick and mortar buildings. Hence, it is no surprise that more and more people are looking into the option of building a shipping container house for their dream home!
If you are one of those people, you should know a few essential things about constructing a home out of shipping containers – before you start buying those containers!
Eight Things You Should Know About Building Container Homes In UAE.
Look Before You Buy
It is always better to have a first-hand look at the container yourself. Even if it is docked in a remote port, spend the time and effort to check it out in person to get an accurate idea of the condition of the shipping container.
Building Regulations
Read up on local building guidelines and regulations for shipping container homes as they are bound to vary from place to place. It is better to find out what you can do and cannot do before you start on your project!
Also Read: ADVANTAGES OF BUILDING WITH SHIPPING CONTAINERS
One Contractor For All
Shipping containers are a different kind of beast from brick and mortar buildings. So, find a contractor who is familiar with metal work and use the same person to get your insulation, electrical wiring and plumbing done. These contractors know how the integrity of the container would be compromised by cutting doors or windows in the long walls and hence would get them reinforced with steel supports.
Different Containers For Different People
You should be aware that shipping containers come in many sizes. Do the homework on which size will suit your design the best! Some people are fine with the compact size of the standard shipping container. Others prefer the taller ones because after adding in insulation the ceiling can get significantly lower and could give you a claustrophobic
Add Up the Costs
While finalizing the budget for your container home, make sure you include all the costs that are going to be involved, not just the cost of the container – welding, insulation, wiring, plumbing, adding steel supports. Find out exactly what you are in for before you start the project. Not to worry, the cost will still be significantly less than that of a traditional building.
Factors to Consider While Building the Best Container Houses
Insulation
Insulation is a significant factor in shipping container homes, especially in places with extreme weather such as UAE. Since the containers are made up of metal, they get easily heated up in summer. Find out all you can know about insulation materials and the process of the insulation itself beforehand.
The Wind Factor
You are in for a world of noise if you are planning to build a container home in a windy location. Insulation can help with muffling to some extent. But, you will have to consider putting shields with trees or other structures to reduce the noise further.
Wiring and Plumbing
Plan this out in detail and well in advance to find out where the pipes and holes should go. You do not want to rip off and re-do the insulation, just because you forgot to put in an electrical inlet in your bedroom.
These tips and tricks will go a long way in helping you with constructing container homes in UAE. Do your homework well and in no time, you should be the proud owner of a brand new shipping container home!
