However, some of these projects fail because the owners made a couple of small mistakes that ruined everything. Following below are the top mistakes that you should avoid if you want your container home project to succeed:
1. Buying the Wrong Container
This is, perhaps, the biggest mistake you can make at the start of your project. Buying the wrong shipping container will come with regrets at a later date. Most people build using regular-height containers before realizing that they would have been better off with a high cube shipping container.
High cubes are 9’ 6” tall while their regular counterparts are only 8’ 6’. That is a difference of an entire foot that is going to make a world of difference in your new container home. This extra foot will be perfect, for instance, for insulating the ceiling without sacrificing the extra headroom. What is more, high cubes only cost $1000 more than regular ones, which is really cheap when you think about the long term benefits of the former.
You might also make the mistake of buying the container before you see it in person. This way, you are likely to end up with an old shipping container that will cost you a ton of money to fix and spruce up. Even when you find something that looks good online, take some time and go check it out. You might be surprised when you see the real thing.
2. Ignoring Local Planning Regulation
The worst feeling you will get after completing your container home project is when you are told that your new house does not comply with the local planning regulations in your area.
Avoid this horrible mistake by doing some research before you start out. Talk to the public works and buildings division in your area and discuss the project with them. Mostly, you will be required to show that you have a place to build the home on and a good idea of what you are looking to build. Only start the container home project after you get the relevant building permits.
3. Failing to Insulate/Using the Wrong Insulation
Container homes are metallic on the outside. This means that they are highly susceptible to weather conditions. You should, therefore, not make the mistake of ignoring the climate in the area you wish to build your new home.
In case the area receives lots of rain, you must ensure that you insulate your home with a seamless vapor barrier, such as spray foam. In warm and dry climates, get insulation that will leave your home feeling cool and comfortable.
Anyway, the insulation you use in your container home will depend on the style of home you wish to design, the container’s age, the budget you are working with and the local climate. These days, people insulate using recycled newspapers (the most eco-friendly option available), blanket insulation and insulation panels.
In conclusion, the success of your container home project will depend on how well you can veer off the above mistakes. The less you err during the project, the higher the chances of success. Happy building!
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