Modular homes are all the rage nowadays. They are just riddled with benefits: faster build time, more cost and energy efficient, sustainable, and environmentally friendly. The list goes on. There are several things one must do, however, to transform a Conex box into a suitable living space. One of those things is to install a proper insulation.
Why is insulation considered as such an important part of the modification? Because if you don’t, your home will either feel scorching hot or icy cold. Moreover, insulation is useful in preventing humidity that could result in mold growth or corrosion.
To determine the type of insulation needed for your Conex box, consider the type of climate you are living in. Those in colder areas should take measures to make sure their houses are warm yet not humid while houses in warmer areas need to be kept cool. Choosing the appropriate insulation should not present problems as long as you know the properties of each type.
Foam Insulation
Spray foam insulation may be expensive and a bit messy to apply, but the benefits are far greater. It is the quickest method of insulation to date and has the best ability to resist heat flow compared to other materials. It can be applied to the internal and external wall, as well as the ground. As it is applied by spraying, it can cover even the tiniest gaps to provide an absolutely seamless vapor barrier. In the long run, this will help you prevent corrosion and mold.
Foam insulation works well in a wet and moist environment, such as places with frequent rainfalls. Additionally, Icynene spray foam insulation has been found to save up to 35% on heating costs. If your budget allows it, choose this material as your go-to insulation. It works in all types of environment.
SIPS
Structural Insulated Panels or SIPS is an insulating foam core fitted between two oriented strand boards. For this type of insulation to work, you need to fortify the walls of the Conex box with wood panels. SIPS are strong, energy efficient, and cost effective. You can buy them at predefined sizes and simply stuff them between the gaps in the fortified walls.
Most SIPS are moderately priced but still cheaper than spray foam insulation. They are quite a popular option in the insulation market as they provide a high insulating value while keeping the thickness to a minimum.
Blanket or Batt Insulation
When sold in a bundle, it is called batt. When sold in a roll, it is called blanket. Nominated as the cheapest insulators of the three, blanket or batt insulation requires fortified or stud walls just like SIPS. If you have heard of the term rock wool, it is actually a commonly used mineral-based blanket insulation. Other types of blanket insulation include plastic, cotton, fiberglass, and sheep’s wool.
If you are fitting a fiberglass-based blanket insulation by yourself, make sure you’re wearing the suitable personal protective equipment, such as a mask, gloves, and safety glasses. Furthermore, if sustainability and saving the environment is your primary goal to choosing to live in a modular home, you may want to consider using wool and cotton insulation which are natural alternatives to fiberglass or plastic.
Though you can certainly make a DIY project out of transforming a Conex box into a comfortable home, that would require serious building skills as well as different types of tools and equipment. That’s why it’s better to come up with a concept and let a reliable shipping container supplier do the modifications. That way you’re sure to get a professionally built container home you can enjoy for years.
Sources:
5 Methods to Insulate Your Shipping Container Home, ContainerHomePlans.org
Insulation Methods for Shipping Containers, Modlar.com
