CAJ 3

Shipping container architecture

Some time ago a shipping container’s main purpose was to serve as a both fast and cheap solution to emergency needs. Everyone knows them: Shipping containers serving as temporary bank branches, classrooms, etc.

Nowadays, however, those shipping containers are not only temporarily but also permanently used to build real homes.

There are about 300 million of containers which sit empty at ports all around the world and therefore it is an excellent solution and idea of recycling to turn them into houses.

The containers are used to build single-family homes, no matter if for part-time or full-time use.

Advantages

Strength and durability: They are designed to carry heavy loads and resist harsh environments. Apart from that, they can be stacked in high columns.

Transport: They can be easily transported by ship, rail or truck, since they conform to standard shipping sizes.

Availability: They are available across the globe.

Expense: The construction involves very little labor and money. Used containers can cheaply be purchased from major transport companies for about €900 each, and even when purchased brand new, they don’t cost more than €4,500.

Disadvantages

Temperature: Unfortunately, steel conducts heats very well. Thus, if you’re living in an environment with high temperatures, it is recommended to insulate them.

Humidity: Especially in temperate climates rust forms quickly unless the steel is well-sealed and insulated.

Building permits: Sometimes it can be troublesome to obtain building permits as in some regions municipalities haven’t seen this kind of application before.

Cargo spillages: It is not rare that containers show spillage or contamination on the inside surfaces because they have carried a wide variety of cargo during their “working life”. So it would be better to clean them before settlement.