How to build a house from containers. Container house as an alternative to a regular dacha (32 photos) How to build a house from containers with your own hands
Iron houses, cabins and trailers for special purposes are not a new idea. There are projects on the market that can be completed in one to two weeks or you can do the installation yourself.
A new development in housing construction is residential buildings built from shipping containers. Different sizes of modules allow you to create small projects with a minimum of functions, as well as a fairly comfortable large home or office.
Having looked at various projects for a house made from shipping containers, photos of implementations, we have more opportunities to adapt such an idea to our needs.
In Russia this is not yet a very popular solution. But high housing prices force us to look for alternative ways of living for a country house or main residence. This is certainly not a comfortable apartment or cottage, but in the absence of your own home, this could be one of the interesting solutions.
Types of structures
Shipping containers used in maritime transport are usually made of stainless steel coated with a protective layer of paint and epoxy resin. It is necessary to properly insulate such a building, for example with polyurethane, which will increase its energy efficiency and ability to remain cool in summer and warm in winter. The house can also be made of tin modules reinforced with closed profiles. These are popular designs that are most often used to build garages or storage areas.
These houses can have different sizes. Most often there are quite simple projects (from one module), but you can also find quite complex buildings from many modules connected to each other.
Container houses can be used as:
- social housing;
- country houses;
- as a temporary room for workers on a construction site;
- as offices;
- like warehouses.
Companies that manufacture these structures can produce different types of containers depending on demand. Container houses are called LEGO bricks because multiple modules can be used to build fancier and larger buildings. It all depends on our imagination and budget - we can order a simple, basic project from one module or something more fantastic, for example, a two-story or office building. This solution already exists in London.
Advantages
- Price. One of the advantages of this solution, perhaps the most important, is its low price compared to traditional ones. Living in such a house is a good alternative to expensive construction.
- Fast and cheap assembly. Very fast and cheap assembly takes only a few days.
- Mobility. This cheap housing is very mobile and can be quickly moved to another location. If we get bored in this area, we can move our housing to another at any time.
- Site preparation. It can be placed on a so-called difficult site, such as rocky or marshy ground, among existing buildings in a small area.
- Modular assembly. You can expand the structure at any time by adding more modules.
- Comfort– living conditions in such housing are much better than in some old apartment buildings or dormitories, where there are many social and communal apartments. At low costs you can sit comfortably and comfortably.
- The placement does not require a building permit.
Unfortunately, containers are still associated for many people with so-called barracks, temporary buildings - rough, cold, unaesthetic, both outside and inside. A modern residential container has practically no relation to such barracks. Its design is modern and durable, containing functional and safe installations. The equipment, combined with an aesthetic interior, creates conditions that are diametrically better than those in which families are forced to rely on social assistance. Also, in case of natural disasters, when people are left without a roof over their heads and even minimal sanitation conditions, the amenities offered by such residential buildings are of quite good quality. Of course, this is a good solution for arranging a country house or a change house for builders, office and warehouse buildings. The structures are not very complicated, but installation will require a crane.
Flaws
- One of the most important disadvantages is that these structures usually do not have foundations, so they are not permanently connected to the ground, which can be a problem in recognizing them as residential buildings; this, in turn, leads to problems with issuing consent to connect power networks.
- In cold climates, you will have to incur significant heating costs for such premises, despite good insulation.
- Assembly can also be a bit logistically challenging - you'll end up having to rent an expensive crane.
- The question of aesthetics remains relevant. Such designs are certainly not the height of luxury, and their designs tend to be somewhat awkward. If we like stylish four corners, it may be better to use more traditional methods.
Projects of houses from sea containers, photos
One module can be completely self-contained housing for one or two people. The container can contain a full bathroom with toilet, shower and sink. It is also equipped with electrical installation - lighting and sockets, and heating of the rooms includes a convector electric radiator under the window. In the living area there is a kitchenette with multifunctional kitchen equipment - a built-in refrigerator, a sink with running water and drainage and an electric stove. It fully satisfies the needs of people in the field of food storage and preparation of simple dishes.
Here you can live freely even throughout the year - the walls, roof and floor, although made of sheet metal on the outside, are insulated with mineral wool. The roof is designed in such a way that rainwater flows down a special upper element of the container frame into drainpipes hidden in the corners. In the middle, the walls can be made of aesthetically attractive chipboard, white or wood-colored, and the floor can be made of durable and wear-resistant linoleum. The whole room gives a very neat and aesthetic impression.
The space of one container is less than 13 m² of total area and 7 m² of usable space, which is relatively small for a home. However, you can combine modules with each other, thereby increasing the available space. By adding a modified container, removing the middle wall between the containers, you can achieve a structure that looks like a regular house. The entrance is through the vestibule, where you can install a shoe closet and clothes hangers. Behind the next door there can be a kitchenette with a dining-living room. There is a separate room nearby that can be used as a separate bedroom. The entrance to the bathroom is in the lobby.
Project 1 – multi-room housing with large glazing
Project 2 – one-room housing
Project 3 – housing from one module in loft style
Project 4 – residential complex in France
Project 5 – cottage with living room and bedroom
Project 6 – a small house with all amenities
Project 7 – 17 m² of living space
Project 8 – from a 20ft module
Project 9 – house with mezzanine
Prices
Prices for habitable container homes may vary depending on the number of rooms. A 20-foot container (internal length 5.9 m, width 2.4 m) will cost from 55,000 rubles, a 40-foot container (internal length 12 m, width 2.4 m) will cost from 83,000 rubles. The cost of work is from 30,000 rubles per square meter.
The fashion for houses made from shipping containers has flourished in the United States and Scandinavian countries. A few years ago, it was seen more as a fad for the exceptionally wealthy. Until recently, such designs in our country seemed crazy; today more and more companies are offering such a solution. Today, even in our market, we find companies that prepare turnkey container houses, including their proper insulation, at competitive prices.
This is an environmentally friendly, fast and modern way to get economical housing. Therefore, this solution is gradually becoming an increasingly popular alternative. This is not only the effect of high prices, but also growing social awareness and the growing popularity of environmental lifestyle. Although for many it still sounds crazy. Feedback on the construction and improvement of houses from sea containers can be left in the form of comments to the article.
A container block is a rectangular metal or wooden box with a flat roof. It has a door and windows and can be welded or transformable (dismountable). From collapsible blocks, by combining them, buildings of various sizes and complexity are created. More recently, modular buildings were considered exclusively temporary structures that could serve as cabins, warehouses or non-residential buildings - shops, offices, etc. But recently, country houses from block containers are increasingly being built, intended for seasonal recreation or year-round living. What modular houses can be like: photos and descriptions of examples in our article.
Application options for block containers
The container is a metal or wooden frame with a lathing for thermal insulation made of wooden beams around the entire perimeter. Structures made from containers are characterized by a high level of thermal insulation, strength and reliability. Of these they build:
-
houses at tourist bases;
cottages for year-round use;
country houses;
industrial buildings;
warehouses;
modular offices;
workshops;
security posts.
shopping pavilions;
This is not a complete list. In fact, modular technology is suitable for the construction of any low-rise structures. Containers are sold reinforced and insulated, with communications initially installed in them. All this allows you to obtain buildings for any purpose with minimal investment of money and time.
Construction Features
Modular houses are assembled like a children's construction set. Each container block is an element of the overall building structure, which is fully equipped by the manufacturer. At the construction site, the modules prepared according to the project are connected to each other. The process of constructing a modular structure consists of several stages:
foundation construction;
delivery of containers to the site;
installation of containers on the foundation;
connecting containers according to the diagram;
connection of communications.
The building is assembled using proven technology and does not take much time. If you use modules with exterior and interior decoration, after assembling the cottage you can move into it. But developers often use containers without decorative finishing. This allows you to choose facing materials to suit your taste.
A year-round cottage or summer cottage can consist of a different number of modules. There are many options for combining containers. In addition, a building made of modules can be supplemented with a frame extension, or, for example, a traditional attic roof. With the help of cladding, you can “disguise” the structure as a building made of any building material. From the modules you can build a very stylish and respectable cottage, looking at which no one would think that this is a prefabricated transportable building made from containers. The variety of options for modular cottages is ensured by the variability of combining containers.
Advantages and disadvantages
Modular construction represents a new direction in modern low-rise construction. Like any other technology for the construction of architectural structures, it has its advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages
The main advantage of modular cottages is the speed of assembly. In just a few days, the house can be installed and ready for occupancy. The blocks are made airtight, so they can be installed at any time of the year and in any weather. Since containers are delivered immediately with windows and doors and communication lines, the process of preparing for move-in is as short and simplified as possible.
Another important advantage is the ability to complete the house by adding new modules. You can attach it both horizontally and vertically - installing the container on top, on the second level.
Video description
In this video we will look in detail at the cost of each stage of building a small house:
The most attractive plus for private developers is the low cost of modular buildings. Containers can be delivered and installed using simple and inexpensive rental equipment. These processes are often undertaken by container manufacturers.
On our website you can get acquainted with the most popular projects of modular houses from construction companies presented at the exhibition of houses “Low-Rise Country”.
Despite the simple shape of the containers, with their proper combination, architects design very impressive modern cottages. The most original and attractive are modular houses in a modern style. But if the future homeowner loves classical architecture more, he can choose a container home project with a traditional gable roof. In this case, the building takes on the appearance of an ordinary country house, which will harmoniously fit into any environment.
Flaws
The main disadvantage is that factory units do not retain heat well enough. For construction in the southern regions this does not matter much. But when building a modular house in the Moscow region, attention should be paid to additional insulation of containers. The thing is that modular buildings are mostly still temporary or summer. However, some manufacturers are already producing warmer containers that are quite suitable for the construction of permanent housing. How much will such a warm house made from containers cost? Projects and prices for them can be found on the manufacturers’ websites. But on average it will cost 2 million rubles.
Containers made by unscrupulous manufacturers have many disadvantages. They are unreliable, poorly insulated, and the materials used for insulation and interior decoration may be unsafe for human health. Therefore, you need to be very careful when choosing the company from which you will purchase modules for your cottage. It is better to do this together with an experienced specialist; he will at least start by showing and telling what a house made of containers can look like, photos and projects; the specialist’s prices for them always correspond to the present time.
The cost of construction consists of two components - the price of the modules themselves and the cost of their delivery. If the container manufacturing facility is located too far from where the house needs to be built, the total cost will be too high. This is not a minus, but rather a feature of modular construction. If there is no enterprise nearby for the production of high-quality containers, it becomes economically unprofitable.
Loading the module with a manipulator Source alliance-catalog.ru
On our website you can find contacts of construction companies that offer the service of building modular houses. You can communicate directly with representatives by visiting the “Low-Rise Country” exhibition of houses.
Finishing
Quite high demands are placed on the appearance and interior of a cottage for permanent residence. Unlike country houses and temporary buildings, it should look solid and attractive. Containers are usually lined with galvanized metal sheets on the outside and clapboard or plywood on the inside. These coatings are covered with more aesthetic decorative materials.
The facades of modular houses can be decorated using conventional painting. But in order to give the building a respectable appearance, panel facing materials are used. If desired, you can even line a modular house with brick or decorative stone, but such a decision must be calculated at the foundation design stage, since facing brick or stone will make the house much heavier.
Decorative panels are also often used for interior decoration. If you need to get smooth surfaces, you can decorate the interior with plaster, paint or wallpaper.
Types of modules
The following can be used as modules for building a house:
module with iron frame;
module with wooden frame;
sea container.
The last option with a sea container is relevant only in regions where you can inexpensively buy and deliver used containers for transporting goods by sea. Such a container has only a frame, and all the filling, including insulating materials and lining, must be installed independently, and this requires qualified specialists.
When choosing between a container with a wooden or a metal frame, you need to take into account the features of their use. Metal modules retain heat well. They make real thermos houses. But in order to create a comfortable microclimate in such a house, it is necessary to think over a good and expensive ventilation system. Houses made of wooden containers do not require extremely effective ventilation, but during their construction more attention needs to be paid to insulation.
Based on size, block containers are divided into standard sizes. Their length can be 3000, 6000, 9000 or 12000 mm. They come in widths of 2500 mm or 3000 mm. The height may vary among different manufacturers, but in any case it should be at least 2400 mm. It is worth noting that not all container production companies strictly adhere to the standards, but the proportions of the modules are approximately the same for all.
Video description
For a clear overview of block containers, watch the video:
Containers 9 and 12 meters long have a fairly high cost, and they are also inconvenient to transport. Therefore, modules with a length of 3 or 6 meters are most often used.
Modular construction in Moscow
Residents of Moscow and the Moscow region have very wide opportunities in the construction of container cottages. There are various companies operating in the capital for the design, manufacture, assembly and installation of modular houses.
In the Moscow suburbs, the number of modular houses made from block containers is increasing every year. More often these are summer cottages that do not require additional insulation. But large cottages are also actively being built. With proper design and high-quality construction, very stylish and comfortable buildings are obtained.
Currently, Muscovites and residents of the Moscow region can purchase modern, beautiful cottages at prices starting from 1,000,000 rubles. For this amount, the customer receives a fully finished cottage with a high-quality layout and stylish design. Houses made from block containers prepared for move-in, the designs and prices of which are immediately indicated by the construction company, are an ideal way to quickly and inexpensively build comfortable housing.
Video description
More about modular houses for permanent residence in the following video:
Project options
The design of a modular house is tied to the parameters of the containers. This makes the architect's task more difficult. However, if an experienced professional gets down to business, he can create such a modular cottage, the layout of which will not have any flaws.
House from one block container
A dwelling consisting of one container block can accommodate everything necessary for living. It cannot be called spacious, but if you need to get a compact and economical house, this is the most acceptable option.
A standard medium-sized container can accommodate a full bathroom, kitchen area and bedroom. This type of housing is ideal for the construction of budget hotels and hostels.
House made of two block containers
By combining two containers, more spacious houses are built, which are quite comparable in size to city apartments. In addition to a bathroom and a bedroom, such housing has a comfortable kitchen-living room. If you install 2 containers parallel to each other at a distance of 3-4 meters, and build up the resulting void as a frame structure, you can get a fairly solid cottage.
Modern architects are designing quite unusual modular houses from two block containers. 2 containers can be combined in an original way. For example, they can be placed one on top of the other. But in this case you need to use large modules. Another option is to combine the modules with a slight vertical offset.
House made of three block containers
Three containers are enough to build a standard-sized cottage. If you make a frame living room in the center, you will get a cottage with a convenient layout and an expressive exterior.
House made of four block containers
The four-block cottage can already be called a solid dwelling of increased comfort. It can be one-story or two-story. You can combine blocks in a variety of ways. Most often they are lined up in one row, resulting in a square building in plan.
Video description
Watch the video to see what a house made from four blocks of containers looks like:
Conclusion
Modular construction technology has recently begun to be used in the construction of low-rise housing. Therefore, many private developers treat it with some caution. However, the most daring experimenters around the world have been building modular houses from containers for many years and proving their reliability, durability and practicality.
Houses made from sea containers are a promising industry for individual housing construction. Using old cargo containers allows you to generate unique design projects. However, many are afraid to enter this territory - they consider such buildings unsuitable for permanent residence and inconvenient to maintain. In Russia, the described direction is in its infancy: there are few professionals in the industry and a limited number of standard projects. At the same time, container houses are commonplace abroad.
History of container structures
It is unknown who came up with the idea of constructing residential buildings from old shipping containers. Commercialization of this area began in the mid-00s. The development of the trend is associated with the name of the American architect Adam Culkin, who built the first full-fledged house of the described type in the suburbs of New Jersey. To arrange the housing, Kalkin used five standard 40-foot containers. Adam managed to select the optimal configuration and build a fully functional house that is suitable for year-round use. Inside Culkin's house:
- three bedrooms,
- one bathroom,
- large living room,
- full kitchen.
Kalkin’s innovative idea turned out to be commercially successful - he opened the company “Architecture + Hygiene”, which is the leader in its segment, building block housing according to individual and standard projects for more than 10 years.
Among the interesting cases, we can recall the Starbucks project: in the United States, the company assembled several establishments from sea containers. One of the iconic projects was implemented by the iconic French architect Jean Nouvel. According to his drawings, an elite restaurant was built from shipping containers in Paris.
In London, the Box Park shopping center was built from disused containers. On the roof, the builders placed an open relaxation area with wooden benches and tables.
In Hamburg, the rooms of the HafenCity Hotel are stylized as houses made from shipping containers. The entire hotel is designed in a port setting. There is a sauna on the roof, as well as a relaxation area, overlooking the port terminal and the harbor.
Construction Features
If you decide to build block housing from a cargo tank, then the first problem to be solved is related to the choice of configuration. Typically housing is made from:
- 20-foot container (useful volume up to 37 m);
- 40-foot container (useful volume up to 76 m).
Also, in rare cases, oversized 45-foot products can be used: usually used for assembling buildings with two or more floors.
The residential building project is being developed taking into account the simultaneous use of cargo storage facilities of different sizes. For example, 40- and 45-foot modules are used for the first floor. They are equipped with a living room, kitchen, toilet and bathroom, storage rooms, workshop and a compartment for managing utilities.
To minimize risks, it is necessary to take a responsible approach to the selection of blocks. When purchasing shipping containers, pay attention to the following factors:
- Good condition of doors and locking devices;
- Product tightness: especially carefully inspect the joints of the container walls;
- Absence of handicraft welds: the presence of such will negatively affect the strength characteristics of the structure. Due to handicraft welding, the tightness may be compromised during the operation of residential modules;
- Absence of large corrosion spots: if there are large rust spots on the body or on the inside, then the anti-corrosion treatment of the container was not carried out properly.
Of course, there should be no dents, holes or other deformations on the body. If possible, inspect the condition of the walls and floor under the casing: metal sheets may be homemade welded there to hide areas of severe damage. All of the recommendations given are relevant if the future homeowner is going to purchase the basics for residential modules on the secondary market.
Advantages and disadvantages of container houses
Speaking about the advantages of such individual housing construction objects, the following list of arguments can be given:
- Uniqueness: when creating a project, you can configure the living compartments in different ways. In addition, such houses are attractive from an aesthetic point of view: thanks to the large glass area, such buildings look impressive. There are also virtually no restrictions on the use of finishing materials. All this allows you to create a home with a unique interior and exterior;
- Possibility of transportation: such houses can be easily disassembled into compartments and transported to another locality;
- Speed of assembly: with a sufficient level of qualification of the builders, the home can be completely prepared within a week and a half.
Disadvantages are also worth noting:
- Budget projects are not suitable for full-fledged family accommodation. Cheap container houses are small in size and are used as guest houses, but not full-fledged houses;
- Seasonality: most typical projects do not involve year-round living in such a home;
- Shortage of qualified installers: the industry is new for Russia, which means there is a high chance of running into amateurs or scammers;
- High requirements for the technical condition of containers: it is difficult to find problem-free containers on the secondary market, so homeowners are often forced to buy new products.
Myths about container structures
Here are the most common myths about container housing construction.
Myth #1: Shipping containers are not suitable for full-time living.
Misconception: in modern buildings it is possible to equip the required number of residential and utility sections, as well as safely provide the necessary communications - gas, electricity, water supply, sewerage.
Myth No. 2: It is very cold in such houses in winter, and very hot in summer.
Some owners encounter similar problems because their building has layers of thermal and waterproofing that are not installed correctly. Installation of insulation is one of the key components of building a container home. If you make mistakes at this stage, the building will be unsuitable for habitation.
In addition, heating devices and air conditioners can be installed in such buildings without any problems. The ventilation device does not cause problems for installers. A large glazing area is the key to fast and effective ventilation.
Myth 3: Block houses are unreliable and unstable
Misconception again. During construction work for the dacha, a full-fledged foundation is prepared from the container, which will provide the required degree of stability. In addition, the load-bearing containers are reinforced from the inside with rigid metal beams to achieve the required strength parameters.
Myth 4: A cottage made from a container is very cheap housing
The thesis is only partly true. Such buildings require the investment of serious funds: purchasing containers (to create a full-fledged comfortable home, at least five blocks are required), developing a project, making changes to the configuration of blocks (changing walls, inserting windows, installing vertical and horizontal ceilings), installing insulating layers: this a complex of works requires serious financial investments.
On the other hand, if you need to equip a small-sized country house for the summer based on a sea cargo tank, then this will not entail significant costs.
Types of layouts
All types of houses can be divided into two types:
- Single-level (one or more modules are located in a horizontal plane);
- Multi-level (buildings with two or more floors).
Look at the illustrations below to see a variety of layout and design options for residential buildings with different numbers of floors.
The presence of a second floor will be an advantage when zoning the living space. In such houses, non-standard interior solutions are welcome.
Take a look at the following examples of interior design:
Construction safety
This is a key aspect that must be observed when installing residential units. At the design stage, it is necessary to pay attention to the following details:
- The specifics of the relief of the land plot, which is intended for the construction of a house. You need absolutely flat ground, since such a house is most often mounted on concrete slabs;
- The presence of load-bearing beams to maintain rigidity: load-bearing elements must be installed evenly over the entire area of the building to prevent deformation of the floor/ceiling. The structures must be installed at the junctions of residential compartments and at the points where stairs are attached;
- It is necessary to ensure a high level of fire safety: choose insulation and finishing building materials based on this parameter.
Also, to ensure safe living, the project must correctly reflect the relative position of the residential blocks: the maximum limits of the protrusion and the angle of inclination relative to each other. Also, design documentation must take into account climatic conditions: it is necessary to take into account changes in the dimensional parameters of metal structures in the warm and cold seasons.
Foundation structure
The following types of foundation are suitable for housing made from cargo tanks:
- Tape;
- Pile;
- Foundation blocks of various configurations (if the house is one-section, then it is often placed on a standard reinforced concrete slab).
Construction work without preliminary installation of a foundation is not recommended, since soil subsidence is possible even with a low weight of the structure. If the soil is soft or marshy, then the house is installed on piles.
Anti-corrosion treatment
Mandatory work at the preparatory stage. If you buy new containers, then you don’t have to worry about this aspect of construction work. If the container is purchased on the secondary market, then processing is required. Initially, the container is completely cleaned, all internal panels are removed from the walls and floor. The metal sections are cleaned and a new layer of galvanization is applied.
The outer side is also processed. "Anti-corrosion" is applied during painting work.
Construction works
The actual installation of the blocks takes from one and a half to three weeks: the timing depends on the number of residential blocks and the complexity of their relative arrangement. After the blocks are installed according to the design, installers cut door and window openings. Transitions between sections are also being arranged. The next stage is the installation of power beams. Experts do not recommend getting rid of standard container doors - they can be used as window shutters or for installing additional entrances to the room. To connect sections, it is recommended to use the spot welding method.
Roofing device
Such a dwelling should have a sloping roof with plenty of gutters. The attic space should have the configuration of a classic attic. After installing the attic frame, you need to install the rafters. The rafters are attached to the containers using standard metal fasteners. The final stage is the formation and installation of wooden sheathing. Profiled metal sheets are laid on top of the sheathing. To prevent the roof from leaking and the rafters from rotting, an insulating layer is laid between the sheathing and metal panels. For basic protection, you can purchase a standard vapor barrier.
Laying insulation and insulating layers
Insulation of a container house is an aspect of construction work in which errors must be reduced to zero. Otherwise, myth number 2 will come true. It is recommended to carry out insulation with expanded polystyrene foam. You can attach thermal insulation in the form of slabs or apply the reagent directly by spraying. Container dwellings can also be insulated with polyurethane foam. It is necessary to install facing panels on top of the insulating layer to give the house an attractive appearance and protect the thermal insulation from moisture. If desired, layers of waterproofing can be laid in a similar way.
It is equally important to ensure that the inside of the building is insulated. It is necessary to insulate: places with cracks and large gaps. You also need to pay attention to areas with high thermal conductivity. If you ignore insulation, then in winter these areas will cool down the fastest. In container houses, such problems include almost the entire structure, so it is necessary to provide for the volumetric costs of thermal insulation. It is recommended to install internal insulation using plastic fasteners or liquid nails. Lay polystyrene foam boards on the floor.
Connection to communications, ventilation device
Some companies offer so-called “blanks” for purchase: these are containers specially adapted for individual housing construction. They have primary finishing and preparation for connection to utility networks. There are no difficulties here: water supply and electricity are supplied using standard methods.
If you plan to use a mini-boiler room, then you need to equip a separate room for it, since setting up a basement in a container house is problematic due to the type of foundation. Communication control units are located in a separate room, as in ordinary houses. The homeowner can control the power supply of the compartments, thermostats, and coolant flows.
Installing ventilation is the simplest stage of construction work. The holes are easy to cut, since the ceilings are made of relatively thin metal. If necessary, ventilation pipes are attached to standard fasteners: it is more important to insulate them for safe operation in cold weather.
Finish options
Before starting interior work, you need to make smooth walls. The profiled metal is covered with thermal insulation with smooth panels on top. Next, you need another layer (usually plywood) to begin finishing. Wood finishing is recommended. If your budget is limited, you can put up wallpaper. Try not to use synthetic materials in the interior; give preference to wood or stone.
Examples of houses
This article discusses the features and specifics of such budget housing as a house made from a sea container: the advantages and disadvantages of buildings, the technical parameters of the building material and the average prices for its purchase. The text contains information that will allow you to independently create a house from containers on your site: interesting ideas, photos and videos, tips for creating a layout and unusual projects, step-by-step construction technology.
If you want to acquire comfortable and practical housing in the shortest possible time, you should pay attention to the projects of houses made from sea containers; the price of such structures in comparison with standard buildings is much lower and more affordable for most owners of suburban areas. This type of construction is only gaining popularity, which is due to low awareness of the population. Housing made from containers has been actively used abroad for several decades.
How container houses are built: photos and features of buildings
Container construction is rightfully considered a technology of the future, which will soon help many people solve their housing problem. In European countries, this approach is widespread, resulting in the emergence of a new business sector. This area includes services for the design and construction of turnkey container houses, the so-called “semi-finished structures”.
A semi-finished product is a model used as a basis for the construction of a building. This structure is manufactured in a factory and has a rough floor and walls. In addition, the standard equipment of the semi-finished product includes additional systems and elements:
- window structures;
- electrical wiring;
- doors;
- heating system.
After selecting a specific project, the owner of the land plot will only have to buy cargo containers in the required quantity. They are delivered to the construction site, where they will subsequently be combined into one structure. The use of such models can significantly reduce the construction time of a house, which is one of the most significant advantages of this technology.
Helpful advice! During the home process, shipping containers can be advantageously combined with other building modules, such as reinforced concrete or brick.
Why is it profitable to buy a house made from shipping containers: the advantages of buildings
Houses made from sea or cargo containers have many advantages. They have a seismically resistant design, so buildings of this type are often built in regions where various natural disasters are observed, such as hurricanes or earthquakes.
Blanks in the form of containers allow you to get a home that is practically no different from permanent buildings. The outer side of the modules can be finished with clapboard; the inner side is covered with plasterboard sheets. Moreover, the cost of container buildings is much lower than the price of permanent housing. By choosing a shipping container as a material for building a house, the owner can be sure that his home will not be inhabited by harmful insects and rodents.
It takes no more than 2-3 months to construct a container-based building. If you minimize some types of work, for example, simplify the finishing, then 2-3 weeks will be enough to put the house into operation. Since container buildings are light in weight, there is no need to build a massive foundation. The modules can be installed directly onto compacted earth.
Billets can be used not only for the construction of residential buildings. They are ideal for the implementation of projects of houses from shipping containers with extensions and utility facilities.
This technology is not limited to certain climatic conditions. If there is appropriate thermal insulation, a container house can be built in almost any latitude. Since modular blanks are designed for sea transportation, such houses can be safely installed on frozen ground. They are resistant to low temperatures and adverse weather conditions. Container houses can be built on plots with a large slope.
Interesting fact! Shipping containers are widely used for housing construction in Antarctica and regions located in the Far North.
If the design of a house made from shipping containers does not involve installing stained glass on the entire wall, such a building will provide residents with maximum protection from intrusion by strangers.
Disadvantages of modular houses made from block containers
Housing made from cargo and sea containers does not have many disadvantages. The amazing durability and longevity of these structures also includes a downside. To ensure that containers can withstand long-term use under aggressive weather conditions, they are pre-treated with special compounds and dyes. These protective coatings contain toxic substances. Therefore, before you start building a container house, you should remove the paint.
The blank modules are made of metal, so in the summer the surface of the structure gets very hot, and in the winter it cools down. To ensure comfortable climatic conditions in your home, you will definitely need to take care of high-quality and effective thermal insulation.
Under the influence of moisture, the metal becomes covered with rust. To prevent premature destruction of the building, it is advisable to regularly inspect the building for corrosion and carefully care for it. Low ceilings are one of the most significant drawbacks. If you insulate the ceiling and floor, the maximum height of the room will be 2.35 m.
Dimensions and photos of containers for building houses
Container dimensions are usually indicated in feet. For the construction of houses, structures intended for the transportation of railway and sea cargo are suitable. Moreover, the dimensions may vary depending on the load capacity. Containers of various capacities are used for transportation by rail, but exclusively large-capacity containers are used for housing construction.
The internal dimensions of a 20 t container are 2.33 x 5.86 x 2.19 m. Having similar dimensions, the structure has 29.5 m³ of usable volume. Minus the space allocated for installation of sheathing and insulation, this will be the approximate size of the interior space of the room.
Typically, standard sized 40 foot long shipping containers are used for building construction. The internal dimensions of this design are 2.4x12x2.35 m. One container will be enough to create:
- utility room;
- spacious extension;
- storage;
- workshop.
Using 2-3 blocks, you can build a house with an area of 120 m². An interesting option would be to install two containers opposite each other, connecting them with stained glass and covering them with one roof.
Interesting fact! In America and Europe, houses made from 40-foot containers are widespread. The first creator of such housing was the architect Adam Kalkin. The house appeared as a result of a creative experiment and consisted of 3 sea containers.
Dimensions of container blocks:
| Container size, feet | External dimensions of the container, m | Container internal dimensions, m | Internal volume, m³ | Doorway size, m |
| 20 | 6.05x2.43x2.59 | 5.75x2.35x2.39 | 33,1 | 2.34x2.28 |
| 40 | 12.19x2.43x2.59 | 12.03x2.35x2.38 | 67,5 | 2.34x2.28 |
| 45 | 13.71x2.43x2.89 | 13.55x2.35x2.7 | 86,1 | 2.34x2.58 |
In most cases, containers are rectangular in shape, although there are also square options with increased height.
How much will it cost to buy building material for a house made from containers: price of blocks
The price of blocks for building a house from containers depends on various factors. It is influenced to a greater extent by the configuration and size of the structure. In addition, the cost depends on whether the container is new or has been previously used. If the product is used, its price will depend on the condition. The cost of shipping containers that are well preserved and have normal geometry will be significantly higher than that of defective products.
Average prices for 40ft containers:
| Container type | Product Features | price, rub. |
| New containers | ||
| 40 HCDD | tall, double doors | 305000 |
| 40DV | standard | 330000 |
| 40 HC | high | 360000 |
| Used containers | ||
| 40DV | standard | 120000 |
| 40 HC | high | 125000 |
Building a house based on container blocks will cost about 30% less than the cost of stationary housing made of brick.
Interesting projects and photos of container houses, prices for turnkey construction
Every year the architectural design of residential buildings becomes wider and more diverse. Some people, in an effort to emphasize their status, buy large houses with a modern design, made of steel, concrete and glass, others prefer extravagant solutions, for example, housing made from shipping containers. Moreover, there can be countless variations on this theme. Some people use a container as an extension to a building, while others have their entire house limited to the walls of one container.
Container house design: photos, ideas, design options
Despite their simplicity, house designs made from 40-foot containers look quite interesting. Such structures can be used as guest or country houses. The buildings turn out to be small and at the same time very neat. This option is ideal for budget construction if the land area is small.
Of course, the small dimensions and shape of the container significantly limit the owner’s design and decoration of the future home. However, this doesn't stop some people. You can improve the appearance of the building with the help of sliding doors and large stained glass windows, visually expanding the interior space. Homes painted in bright colors, such as blue, green or yellow, look great.
Helpful advice! If you install a small canopy over the front of the building, then during summer rain you can keep the doors open without fear of water getting into the room. Sheets of cellular polycarbonate are suitable for these purposes. To support the overall exterior, you can buy colored polycarbonate for a container house that matches the color of the building.
To create a warm and comfortable environment, it is advisable to use wooden panels as interior cladding. Even the simplest design can be turned into a great place to relax and live by experimenting with colors and materials. Such a house will fit perfectly into the surrounding landscape if you plant flower beds around it. Brave designers can try organizing a flower garden right on the roof, using cacti and other light-loving plants for this purpose.
Related article:
Design features, advantages and disadvantages. Common triangular building projects and photos. Step-by-step construction technology.
Houses made from shipping containers: photos and designs of impressive buildings from the best architects
The design of the houses, developed by architect Adam Kalkin, who appreciated the advantages and durability of shipping containers, looks quite impressive in the photo. If you want to acquire housing with a large area, you can use his designs of multi-level buildings.
According to the idea, a kind of “house within a house” is created. To do this, individual smaller components are placed inside the massive structure, which can be used as independent full-fledged buildings. Thanks to large sliding glass doors, you can harmoniously connect your living space with the outside world.
Despite the unusual concept, such a house can accommodate everything you need for a comfortable stay:
- living room;
- kitchen;
- several bedrooms and bathrooms.
From an aesthetic point of view, a multi-level house with many container sections looks attractive and unique, and due to the presence of transparent glass doors, its already large space is filled with lightness and lightness.
Photos of a 2-story house designed by architect Marcio Kogan look no less impressive. This project allows you to create a residential building on the basis of industrial elements combined into one whole in a limited period of time. In order to give the house the required area, the containers are stacked on top of each other, and then the building is expanded. The result is a structure with large internal space. In the widest part you can arrange a comfortable living room.
Helpful advice! By using a clever retractable door system, the living room space can be extended to the outdoors, thereby providing a beautiful view from the room and quick access to the yard.
40 foot shipping containers can be used for construction. Through the use of vibrant colors and modern home ecosystems, simple blocks are transformed into functional homes with a joyful and cheerful design.
Unusual examples of container houses: photos and projects of non-residential buildings
Cargo containers are used not only for the construction of residential buildings, but also for the creation of other projects. An excellent example of this approach is the Starbucks coffee house, which, according to the idea of one businessman, was made of modular elements. This modern cafe made from containers has an original and unusual design, unlike the usual design of these establishments.
Many people associate shipping containers with fast delivery and fresh food, so this concept can be easily used to build your own store or cafe. A compact building made of containers can accommodate everything you need to start your own business. There will be enough space to install equipment and create a small work area for staff.
Taking an idea from designer Stephen Shoup, you can create a temporary office out of containers for a young company. If you are not sure about the stability of business development, modular buildings made from cargo blocks will be an excellent solution to the problem. This method is unusual and does not require large expenses. Stephen Shoup designed the L-shaped office building. However, this does not mean that other container placement options cannot be used.
The shipping container office building is a bit reminiscent of warehouse buildings, but it doesn't lack the appeal of an industrial style. The interior space can be effectively used for arranging office space. In this case, everything necessary for work will always be at hand, and if desired, there will be enough space for holding a small meeting or business meeting. It all depends on how many containers are used to build the office and what its internal layout is.
Interesting container house projects: design options
To create a beautiful modern home, two 40-foot containers will be enough. Such projects are suitable for people who do not strive for excesses. High-quality finishes and modern furniture will help turn a container house into housing that meets the basic requirements.
For people who prefer spacious housing, it is better to give preference to house designs consisting of several blocks. On the Internet you can find photos of houses made from sea containers, which do not always have a presentable appearance, but at the same time they are very practical and comfortable inside. In a building consisting of 4 blocks, you can arrange a large living room and a spacious kitchen, several bedrooms, etc.
Helpful advice! If the second level of the building is pushed forward above the first floor, you can get a kind of canopy. The space underneath is ideal for arranging a terrace, which will be an excellent place to relax outdoors in the summer.
Interesting houses that successfully combine container blocks and open spaces look unusual in the photo. Using modern technologies and design solutions, you can create comfortable living conditions in such a building. Before you start construction, you should think about adding elements such as:
- exploitable roof with landscaping;
- high-tech porous thermal insulation;
- geothermal heating system.
All these innovations will allow you to create a real home suitable for permanent residence of an entire family.
Popular container house projects and construction prices
The cheapest option for housing construction is to purchase and implement a country house project consisting of one container. If you need a place for permanent residence, you should think about building it from several blocks. Thanks to the principle of volumetric design of buildings consisting of individual rectangular cells, it becomes possible to obtain housing with an original design and different number of storeys, and in a limited space.
You can buy a house made of containers with a total area of about 90 m² for about 360-450 thousand rubles. Such a project involves installing three blocks in one plane. If you add a second floor using additional 2-3 containers, the cost of housing will double.
Single container houses are characterized by simplicity and practicality. In one room you can combine a dining room and a bedroom, and also organize a small bathroom behind a partition. This option is suitable for temporary residence of 1-2 people.
If you place 3 blocks in one plane, such housing will be suitable for a comfortable stay for a family with two children. A total area of 85 m² will be enough to equip a kitchen (14 m²), a dining room (23 m²) and several bedrooms (36 m²), as well as a bathroom (12 m²).
Two-story buildings made from cargo blocks have the same conditions as modern buildings with a large area. In this case, it is advisable to divide the layout of a container house into zones according to their intended purpose. On the ground floor it is better to arrange a spacious living room, which can be used for receiving guests and family meetings. It is advisable to organize a dining room and kitchen nearby. The second floor can be used for recreation. It is better to arrange bedrooms here.
It is advisable to locate general purpose premises on each floor:
- toilets;
- bathrooms;
- utility rooms (storage rooms, dressing rooms).
Important! Before construction begins, containers must be checked for radiation. The safe norm is 35 µR/h (micro-roentgen per hour).
Average price of a turnkey container home:
| Materials for work | price, rub. |
| Used sea containers (2 pcs.) | 160000 |
| Arrangement of strip foundation | 90000 |
| Flooring installation | 40000 |
| Construction and roof insulation (tile or bulk insulation) | 36000 |
| Installation of external thermal insulation (mineral wool slabs) | 30000 |
| Construction of a wooden frame + clapboard cladding | 25000 |
| Ceiling organization (chipboard and timber) | 12000 |
The cost of purchasing materials is 393 thousand rubles. If you hire a contractor to build a modular house from containers, then taking into account the cost of services, the price of housing will approximately double and will be 786 thousand rubles. The figures given are approximate only. Costs will depend on various factors, such as the quality and type of finish, soil characteristics on the site and other conditions.
Features of bathhouses made from sea containers and average construction prices
Cargo containers can be used for more than just residential buildings. Baths made from blocks are in high demand among consumers, who are attracted by the mobility of these structures, affordable price and the ability to adjust parameters to suit individual needs. Most often, 20-foot High Cube blocks are used to build bathhouses from containers. The area of such an element is 13.53 m².
This space is enough to organize the main components:
- shower;
- steam room;
- rest rooms.
Average prices for turnkey baths:
| name of the project | Equipment | price, rub. |
| Standard | Cleaning and preparation, foundation installation, flooring, sewerage and water supply, wall and floor finishing | 300000 |
| Optimum | Standard + glazing, finishing of walls and ceilings, installation of electrical wiring, installation of doors | 400000 |
| Maximum | Standard + optimum + installation of all elements of the lighting system, plumbing, heating devices, ventilation, heated floors | 500000 |
Note! All projects indicated in the table involve the installation of a steam room, water supply and sewerage systems, supply of electricity and cutting out window openings. The cost of double glazed windows is not included in the total price.
Consumer opinion about container houses: user reviews from forums
Many owners of summer cottages have already taken advantage of the idea of building residential containers and shared their opinions on forums.
“If you adhere to all the requirements and perform full insulation, a house made of container blocks will be a good solution to the housing problem. I like that a minimum of time is spent on erecting the supporting structure. After this, you can select doors and windows, as well as finishing, to your taste. There is no need to build a massive foundation, which greatly simplifies the work. Of course, the size and shape of modular elements are limited by standard frames, but if you have a creative streak, even this problem can be circumvented.”
Evgeniy Dorosh, Moscow
“My neighbor in the country started with one block, gradually adding additional modules to it. Now his country house made of containers looks no worse than a stationary building made of bricks. So I seriously thought about building such housing. The house looks interesting both inside and outside. I’ve never heard any complaints from my neighbor, so I think it’s worth a try.”
Igor Skripach, Ekaterinburg
“A container house can hardly be compared with a brick building. But taking into account the price, which is about 5 times less, such housing can be safely considered if the family’s budgetary capabilities are limited.”
Roman Lubko, Samara
How to build a house from containers: technology and recommendations
Construction of housing on the land plot is carried out in stages. Since the building does not require a complex foundation, all work can be done independently. Main stages of construction:
- project development;
- arrangement of the foundation part of the building;
- installation of containers;
- roofing;
- installation of insulation;
- internal and external finishing works.
Designing a 40ft Container House: Building Layout
The layout is developed taking into account the purpose of the building. Many companies offer standard projects for construction, but to create modern housing from containers it is better to use an individual approach. However, you should not rely solely on your own intuition. Despite the obvious simplicity of the construction process, it is imperative to act within the framework of the design work.
Before you begin constructing a building from cargo containers, it is necessary to perform strength calculations. To do this, weight loads are calculated and, based on the data obtained, the optimal dimensions of the foundation are calculated. In addition to these calculations, the design documentation specifies the type and quantity of building materials, as well as the appearance of the structure.
Note! To find out the cost of container housing, you need to take shipping into account. This service may affect the final price.
Depending on how many containers will be used to build a house, and how they will be placed in relation to each other, you can get rooms with different layouts and areas. Most often, developers resort to an option where several containers are installed in a row under one roof. In this case, the modules are adjacent to each other with the long side. With this arrangement, the rooms are connected by organizing internal openings.
An interesting option is obtained if one of the walls has a folding design. In this case, it can serve as a home space. Panoramic windows can be installed on the inside of the wall. Such a project will not only be successful in terms of ease of use, but also safe.
The layout of a country house made from containers will be more varied if you place the modular blocks in a checkerboard pattern. The designer will have a chance to show his imagination and achieve an interesting result. Options for parallel placement of cargo containers are quite popular. In this case, the modules are installed at a certain distance from each other.
Convenient and comfortable layouts are obtained in those projects where containers are located one above the other. From the outside, this design looks like dresser drawers. If the blocks are placed in a U shape on the site, it will be possible to arrange a patio. This area can be decorated and arranged for family fun.
How to build a container home that meets safety requirements
Bacteria and rodents can cause serious damage to a building, but there are other dangers, such as burglars. There are special design and technological techniques that allow you to avoid invasion from the outside and provide your home with reliable protection.
The front door is one of the most vulnerable areas. To secure this area of the house, it is advisable to install a frame wall immediately behind it, where an opening is cut. During the absence of the owners, the property will be protected by two door structures at once: standard and burglar-resistant.
Another way to make a building more secure against burglary is to install a wall with a lifting structure. This method is convenient and reliable, although it is expensive. A glass wall is installed behind the lifting structure, which will provide the building with additional natural light.
Helpful advice! If the climbing wall will be used as a terrace, it is advisable to use wood for its construction.
The size and shape of door and window structures do not affect the safety level of the building. These elements are selected taking into account the design of the premises or exterior of the house.
Building a foundation for a house from shipping containers with your own hands
The first stage of construction involves carrying out foundation work on the site. The house can be installed on piles, foundation blocks, strips. The choice of base depends on the relief features of the site and the properties of the soil. It is not recommended to install blocks without a foundation, since the soil will sag under the weight of the building, and in winter the structure will freeze very much.
If you intend to build a country house for temporary residence, they will be suitable as a basis. The two-story building needs careful preparation. In most cases, experts advise using a reinforced strip foundation. To build it, you will need to dig a pit, so you cannot do without specialized equipment, for example, an excavator, as well as trucks that will remove the soil.
If the site is located on weak, marshy soil, it is better to give preference to a pile foundation. To pour a monolithic foundation for a house made of block containers with several floors, it is advisable to use grade 400 cement, which is mixed with water and sand. By adding special hardeners to the resulting mixture, you can significantly increase the service life of the base.
It is allowed to use the ready-mix for concrete work. In this case, a reinforcement frame and a formwork structure are installed, which is filled with mortar. To get a high-quality result, concrete must be compacted. For this purpose, a deep vibration tool is used.
The structural part of building a house from cargo containers: installing blocks
The installation of cargo containers on the site can only begin after the concrete has completely dried. This requires at least 22 days. If 40-foot-long shipping containers are purchased for construction, then a truck crane will be required for their installation.
Helpful advice! While the concrete is drying, you can perform anti-corrosion treatment on the shipping containers. To do this, the blocks are painted using iron and lead. As a finishing layer, it is better to use a dye that is resistant to high temperatures.
When the concrete pour has completely hardened, the modules can be installed on the foundation. Then they are tied and scalded. This is done in order to secure the structure of the house from two containers to the foundation and connect the modules to each other.
At the next stage, internal interior partitions are formed. For these purposes, it is advisable to use plasterboard sheets. This material is easy to handle and can be processed well. As an alternative, corrugated sheets can be used. To obtain the necessary elements, you need to remove the inner walls of the container, which do not fit into the requirements of the project. This procedure is performed immediately before the blocks are installed on the foundation.
At the same stage, openings for windows and doors are cut out. A grinder can be used for this. After the operation is completed, you should carefully treat the edge of the cut with special means.
Since the design of the cargo container is not designed to have holes, the rigidity of the block will be significantly reduced as a result of installation work. To strengthen the supporting structure in weak places, namely in window and door openings, it is necessary to weld pipes or channels around the entire perimeter. This must be done so that the stiffening ribs extend from the floor to the ceiling.
It is advisable to use a continuous seam to connect all elements of the supporting structure. Fastening the container body to the stiffeners is best done by spot welding. If you do not have the skills to operate a welding machine, it is advisable to use the services of a professional, since it is very important to maintain the necessary inclinations and angles.
How to do roofing work in a container house with your own hands
First, the frame part of the attic floor is formed. For these purposes, it is recommended to use timber with a section size of 10x10 cm. The frame is fixed to the container using self-tapping screws. To fasten the beams together, it is advisable to use plumbing bolts.
When the frame part of the attic is ready, the rafter system is installed. If the size of the boards is specified correctly in the design documentation, then during the work they will not have to be spliced, making the structure more durable and reliable. Self-tapping screws should be used to connect the rafters. Next, a sheathing is formed, on top of which galvanized steel sheets are laid. When performing roofing work, you should not forget about vapor insulation. To do this, a vapor barrier film is placed between the sheathing and the steel sheets.
There is another way to organize vapor insulation. To do this, pipes 40 cm long and 10 cm in diameter (3 pieces on each side) are installed under the roof itself on both sides of the house. They will provide ventilation to the space under the roof. The holes intended for installation of pipes are made in advance.
Important! Steel sheets are affordable, but they make too much noise during heavy rain and wind. Therefore, it is worth giving preference to soft roofing materials, for example, ondulin.
High-quality insulation of a modern container house
Any residential premises need thermal insulation. This is especially true for buildings made from shipping containers, which conduct not only heat well, but also sound. Therefore, it does not hurt to install soundproofing materials along with thermal insulation.
The following types of materials can be used as insulation:
- polyurethane foam;
- mineral wool;
- Styrofoam.
The maximum service life of mineral wool is 10 years. After this, the material loses all its properties. Unlike mineral wool, polyurethane foam and polystyrene foam have a dense structure. Thanks to this, installation of such thermal insulation is quick and easy. The service life of polystyrene foam and polyurethane foam reaches 20 years. These materials have not only heat but also sound insulation properties, which mineral wool cannot boast of.
To fix the insulation, you can use plastic pins or a special adhesive. Plastic elements are screwed into the walls of the cargo container in advance. A polyethylene film is laid over the insulation. Then a decorative layer is installed, for example, chipboard or lining.
Insulation of floors is carried out in a similar way. For this you should use polystyrene foam boards. The use of mineral wool on floors is extremely undesirable, because it can retain moisture. Additionally, you can make a concrete screed.
In the process of insulation, it is very important not only to use high-quality materials, but also to try to eliminate sources of heat loss as much as possible. As a rule, their role is played by design flaws, which include:
- cracks;
- cold bridges;
- areas with high thermal conductivity.
The main source of heat loss is cracks. If the assembly of the structure is performed poorly, all efforts to insulate will be in vain. Therefore, it is very important to carefully treat all joints. Cargo containers are made of metal. This material has high thermal conductivity, so insulation is carried out not only from the inside, but also from the outside of the building.
Window and door openings can serve as a source of heat loss. In order to prevent rapid cooling of the premises, it is necessary to select high-quality materials for thermal insulation of the door structure, as well as double-glazed windows for windows of appropriate thickness.
Note! You shouldn't skimp on insulation. If all the work is done efficiently, in the future you can significantly reduce the heating costs of a container building. Therefore, the choice of materials must be approached very responsibly.
What materials are used for interior and exterior decoration of a house made from modular containers?
After the internal insulation of the house has been completed, the surface of the walls is covered with OSB boards, plasterboard or plywood sheets. These materials are attached to a rigid frame, which is assembled from metal profiles.
Ceiling coverings can be very diverse:
- drywall;
- Armstrong system;
- stretch ceiling;
- painted wood.
To decorate wall surfaces, the same materials are used as in standard houses, for example: wallpaper, plastic panels, decorative plaster, paint. The floors are covered with tiles, parquet, and linoleum. It all depends on the purpose of the room, personal preferences and budgetary capabilities of the owner.
The following materials are used in external finishing works:
- natural stone;
- block house;
- siding;
- decorative plaster;
- fake diamond;
- plastic panels.
Finishing materials for exterior work are selected taking into account the climatic conditions and design of the building.
Connecting a container house to communication systems and heating
Since container buildings do not require a massive foundation, the floors can be cold. The best option for modular houses would be a “warm floor” heating system. If there is high-quality insulation on the walls and roof, it can create comfortable climatic conditions for living. The underfloor heating system cannot be used as the main source of heating, especially if the ceilings in the house are high. Additional heaters will be required.
Helpful advice! If you install solar panels on the roof of a building, you can organize a convenient and efficient heating system.
If the house will be used for permanent residence, care should be taken to ensure that all necessary communications are available. These include:
- sewer system;
- electricity;
- water pipes;
- gas supply.
If electricity and gas supply can be supplied to the house at any time, then the calculation of sewerage and water supply is carried out at the stage of design work. If there is no centralized water supply system, you will have to find alternative sources, for example, build a well and connect pumping equipment. If there are no conditions for creating a sewer system, this issue can be solved using a cesspool or septic tank. It also wouldn’t hurt to install a system that provides natural and forced ventilation.
When all construction and finishing work is completed, you can begin arranging a house from shipping containers. There are no restrictions regarding the style of decoration and furniture. The owner can make his own decisions when creating the design of the premises. The exception is styles such as baroque and classic, which are characterized by the use of massive furniture. In conditions of low ceilings, such a design would be inappropriate.
It is advisable to avoid gloomy and dark colors. White and pastel shades will visually increase the space inside the containers. Mirrors and glossy surfaces create a similar effect. Container buildings are ideally combined with panoramic windows. This type of glazing will give the building a modern appearance.
Using your imagination, you can turn a modular structure into a full-fledged and comfortable home, and the presence of awnings or a veranda will give it additional comfort.
How to build a house from containers: video review of technology
If you look at shipping containers solely as containers for transporting goods, then this Homius editorial material is not for you. Others, inquisitive readers, may well gain completely new knowledge from the point of view of house building. Is a house made from a sea container an invention of marketers or a truly real project that can be implemented on Russian soil, literally and figuratively? Let's figure it out.
First, let's figure out what a sea container is in general from the point of view of the housing code of the Russian Federation: a house, a technical room, or something else altogether?
According to a number of SNiPs, as well as building codes, the dimensions and number of premises, their purpose, as well as their location relative to each other play a role here. Particular attention is paid to the functionality of each of them.
Important! Remember, if the container building is intended to be used as a permanent one, then a building permit must be obtained. Only temporary housing permits are not required. However, in this case, if it is built on someone else’s territory, or is owned by a group of people, your temporary structure runs the risk of being demolished. It doesn't matter what it's made of.
Thus, as a general rule, for the construction of a residential building, even a container one, it is necessary to obtain the appropriate permit.
The so-called “semi-finished construction”, which includes modular buildings made from containers, is very popular in Europe and the USA. Such housing has been successfully used there for decades.
"Keetwonen" is a container hostel in Amsterdam, built in 2005 by Tempohousing Semi-finished housing is called due to the fact that the design of the structure is first thought up on paper, then containers are selected, and only then, right on the construction site, they are formed and adjusted to a specific project and are supplied with certain standard elements: windows, etc.
Dimensions of sea containers and international markings
It just so happens that the dimensions of shipping containers are most often calculated in feet. That's why they are marine. Typically, large-sized varieties with a volume of 20 tons or more are used for housing construction. If measured in our usual units, then its dimensions are 2.33 x 5.86 x 2.19 m. If we carry out rough calculations, then the useful volume of such a structure is 29.5 m³.
Approximate dimensions and carrying capacity of containers suitable for use are indicated in the table. Please note that there are markings that suggest the use of containers enlarged according to certain parameters.
| Marking | External dimensions (L×W×H),mm | Internal dimensions (L×W×H),mm | Purpose |
| 20 feet DC | 6058×2438×2591 | 5898×2350×2390 | general purpose, without (dry type) |
| 20 feet NS | 6058×2438×2896 | 5898×2350×2693 | |
| 40ft DC | 12192×2438×2591 | 12093×2330×2372 | general purpose, without ventilation (dry type) |
| 40 ft NS | 12192×2438×2896 | 12093×2350×2693 | general purpose, without ventilation (dry type), increased in height |
| 45ft PW | 13716×2500×2750 | 13513×2444×2549 | general purpose, without ventilation (dry type), increased in width |
| 45ft HCPW | 13716×2500×2896 | 13513×2444×2670 | refrigerator container, increased in width |
Such “temporary buildings” are used for the construction of objects not only in zones with a temperate climate, but also in areas with extremely cold winters. The answer is simple, sea containers are most often created to be resistant to low temperatures, because the temperature in the holds of cargo ships cannot be called comfortable. However, insulation must still be present, at least to protect the building from dangerous condensation.
Advantages and disadvantages of houses made using shipping containers
The first and most important advantage is the relative cheapness of constructing such a facility. On average, the cost of one container varies from 60,000 rubles. Plus the costs of transportation, the use of special equipment, pouring or backfilling the base. Compared to the cost of any capital housing - mere pennies!
Another plus is the speed of construction. If you simplify the finishing work, then you can assemble one in literally 2 or 3 weeks. Of course, the complete creation of a turnkey project will take 2 or 3 months, but it is still faster than using standard technologies.
If you use one container, then to arrange it you just need to level the area. The design is quite light and does not require massive construction. The exception is projects of multi-storey buildings.
For your information! Containers have long been successfully used for the construction of cafes and small shops. Some retail chains have even made this their “feature.”
In addition, there will definitely be no rodents in such a container, since it is completely sealed.
However, we should not forget about the disadvantages of container houses:
- vague wording of the law regarding this type of structure;
- transportation costs; installation requires the use of special equipment;
- overheating and strong cooling of the walls, which requires a serious approach and financial investments to create high-quality;
- careful anti-corrosion treatment is required.
For your information! The cost of a container house, taking into account all expenses and finishing work, will be 30% cheaper than standard housing.
Popular buildings made from sea containers: exploring layout options based on photos
Despite the fact that the container itself is not very attractive in appearance, the finished objects created using these structures look very impressive. Such structures are popular for temporary construction or in warmer zones of our country.
Sometimes they are used as guest houses, or ready-made structures for the elderly. It is very convenient to use in this case, so as not to burden the elderly with the need to go down or up. 
Very often used as budget housing for student families. Especially where the construction of such towns is the norm, for example, in France. 
The idea found such a wide response that entire cities began to emerge from shipping containers all over the world. One of the well-known projects is the house design developed by architect Adam Kalkin. His “city within a city” involves a complex system of branched corridors and tunnels, with recreation areas, eateries, shops and more.
Despite the fact that this type of object is still new to Russians, there are dozens of architectural agencies ready to offer you the ideal solution for your situation. Perhaps in this photo selection you will find an idea that is right for you.
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Building a house from a container
As you have already seen, it is possible to build a house from a container even without special education. It is enough to study the issue and understand the technology. And the possibilities of this technology are truly limitless; some architects predict just such a future, where most houses will consist of interchangeable blocks.
Advice! To create a homely atmosphere, close to ordinary housing, it is better to use natural, wooden coverings when decorating premises, both on the outside and on the inside.
There is a certain procedure for the construction of such buildings. It consists of two stages - preparatory, which, in turn, involves the following steps:
- Stage: preparation of the site and collection of permits (if a permanent structure is planned, and not a temporary building).
- Stage: creating a project with layout and drawings.
- Stage: calculation of the number of containers, selection of the required configuration and arrangement of blocks.
- Stage: preparing an estimate taking into account the required quantity and other materials necessary for arranging the container: electrical wiring and communications.
- Stage: choosing the type of foundation and pouring or backfilling it.
Actually, the second, most important stage is the construction and improvement of a house from a container:
- Laying the foundation. The need for a solid foundation is directly dictated by the peculiarity, first of all, of the number of floors of the structure. The more floors and communications, the higher the need to create a solid foundation. For the most part, such buildings are not required;
- Installation of container or containers. One or more, its installation will require the participation of a crane.
- Roof installation. The organization of the roof can be approached as another additional space. Make us an open space or a platform for. You can cover the roof with roofing felt, it all depends on the financial capabilities and complexity of the entire project.
- Insulation, interior finishing, laying of communications. The modern building materials market offers an abundance of different solutions that can satisfy any needs. Typically, such buildings are insulated with glass wool and covered with clapboard. Regarding communications, again it all depends on the goals of the construction and financial capabilities. If desired, you can install next to and. If we talk about electricity, this is one of the prerequisites. Think about this question in advance. You will probably have to consider purchasing an autonomous gasoline power plant.
Advice! Even at the construction planning stage, study the technical conditions for laying the required communications. Especially if you are planning to build a permanent structure. Contact resource supply organizations in advance for the required clarifications.
insulation for walls
Recommendations for arranging housing in a container house
It is interesting that such buildings practically do not limit its owner in the choice of style for architectural solutions. Containers decorated in classic or classic look look equally interesting. The only thing is that too or, which are so popular in Europe, are rather exotic for Russia.
Review of prices and consumer reviews of shipping container houses
In our country, you can buy a house made from a sea container by contacting a company specializing in the construction of modular buildings and structures. The cost of one container depends on how far you have to deliver it. Typically, logistics are included in the purchase price. In each region there are representative offices of large companies that can help you. In addition, the cost also depends on the dimensions of the structure, its wear, and the materials from which it is made.
The cost of turnkey projects is significantly higher than self-production. The price of a ready-made solution depends on the package of services that the company is ready to provide. Approximate prices for standard designs are presented in the table.
| Container type used | Equipment | Foundation type | Cost (as of September 2018),rub. |
| 20 feet |
| screw piles | 560 000 |
| 40 feet |
| screw piles | 1 200 000 |
If you are in doubt about starting a project or not, we offer you some reviews on how our fellow citizens implemented similar ideas and how justified the use of container buildings is in our climate.
Review of the container house:
More details on ForumHouse.ru: https://www.forumhouse.ru/threads/264419/page-8
Review of the container house:
Video: how to build a house from a shipping container
To see what house designs can be created using shipping containers, watch this video :
