Younger generations today have a different definition of what a dream house looks. Back in the day most homeowners would work hard to afford to pay for their home in a nice suburb. Now, things have changed dramatically because a lot of people are looking for more affordable, eco-friendly, and space-saving housing alternative. Hence the popularity of repurposing the used shipping containers for sale in Houston.
Before jumping into the shipping container home bandwagon, you will certainly have a couple of questions. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions and a few tips that will make shipping container living a little easier:
How Long Do Used Shipping Containers Last?
Shipping containers are built to be strong and durable. These metal cargo boxes are made with steel and are meant to withstand the wear and tear of constant stacking and harsh ocean travel. Typically the lifespan of these containers can last up to 30 years, but logistic companies retire them in 10 years. This means there’s a good 20 more years of use left.
Pro Tip: The 20 year predicted life span for the used container only applies to cargo use. As for homes, they see less weathering which means with the right care and maintenance shipping container homes can last a lifetime.
What Are The Container Sizes and Their Costs?
There is no set industry standard for sizes of shipping containers. However there are two sizes that are commonly found: the 20-footer and the 40-footer. Used containers of these sizes are easily found on the trailer yards in Houston, but a quick call to a trusted supplier will ensure the availability. The price range for a 20-footer is $1,400 – $2,800 while the 40-footer ranges from $3,500 – $4,500, still a little steep, but also more affordable than building a house from scratch.
Pro Tip: To avoid spending extra, be sure to have your floor plans ready. This will help you narrow down the container sizes you need for the project.
Are Permits Needed for a Shipping Container Home?
Yes. There is no way to shortcut through building permits. There are even certain locations where they do not allow the use of shipping containers for buildings and homes. It is always better to double check with your area before proceeding with any purchase or planning a construction project.
Pro Tip: Working with experienced designers and shipping container modifiers might give you a better idea on who to contact about permits and construction requirements. It is always handy to have experts on your side.
How Will the Container Arrive at the Location?
When they are empty, a 20-foot shipping container weighs about 5,000 pounds. This is no easy feat to accomplish yourself, especially if you don’t have the right equipment. Luckily, Houston and Dallas used shipping container suppliers offer deliveries too. You can choose to have either the finished modified container delivered to you or to have the raw and untouched containers shipped your way.
Pro Tip: Metal containers aren’t just heavy, they are also very bulky. Be sure that the roads and area going to your location is clear and safe for transport. This will make delivery easier for the crew as well as yourself.
Don’t Rush Into the Decision
Building a home, even when using used shipping containers, is a major investment that shouldn’t be taken lightly. It is always better to do your research first and even consult with the experts before making any final decisions. There are still so many questions to ask yourself and the pros when it comes to living inside a shipping container. One thing is for sure though, designing and building your dream home is 100% possible!
Sources:
Top 20 Shipping Container Home Designs and their Costs 2017, 24HPlans.com
15 Well-Designed Shipping Container Home for Life Inside the Box, Freshome.com
