With minimalism gaining mainstream appeal and downsizing becoming the norm, interest in shipping container homes has increased. Many choose to convert a shipping container into their first home, a holiday home, or even their second or third residence.

While the possibilities are limitless with current shipping container adaptations and the ability to personalize containers to your specifications, there are still a number of fallacies surrounding this new housing option.

If you or someone you know is interested in creating a home out of shipping containers, it is essential to gather as much information as possible before beginning the process. Here are some of the most common myths about container homes and why they are not true.

Dispelling Misconceptions about Container Homes

Container homes have been gaining popularity in recent years as an eco-friendly and cost-effective housing option. However, there are several misconceptions about container homes that may deter people from considering them as a viable housing solution. In this article, we will debunk some of the most common myths surrounding container homes and provide factual information to help you make an informed decision about whether a container home is right for you. We will cover topics such as comfort, construction difficulty, size, temperature control, and the possibility of building an underground container home. Let's dive in and separate fact from fiction when it comes to container homes.

Container homes are tough to construct

While shipping container homes can come in a variety of sizes and levels of complexity, their construction need not be complicated. In actuality, many novices build shipping container homes using do-it-yourself techniques.

The Internet is replete with innumerable videos and tutorials on the various facets of shipping container homebuilding. Remember that if you are attempting to build your own container home, you should adhere to a simple blueprint. If you are building a house with many levels, many rooms, and complicated features, you will need help and advice from a professional.

In the end, the level of difficulty in creating your container home will depend on numerous things, but primarily on the level of complexity you choose for your home. The simpler the home, the easier and more feasible constructing projects will be.

Shipping Container Homes are small and tiny

Many people conflate "small homes" and "shipping container homes," although they are not the same. Again, the container is merely the skeleton of the house, which can be enlarged in numerous ways. We've seen 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom homes all the way up to 4 bedroom, kitchen, living room, dining room, outside space, and pool container homes!

It's either too hot or too cold to live there

Because the containers are made of durable metal, they become extremely hot and chilly in direct sunlight or freezing weather. When you turn them into homes, though, you will add insulation, air conditioning, and heating. This guarantees that their temperature is maintained throughout the year.

It can be buried underground

You might have thought about using a shipping container to build an underground home, but the tension that the dirt would put on the steel box would be bad for its structure. Underground living may provide protection from a variety of dangers; however, the idea that shipping containers may be used as underground residences is false.

Before you plant your shipping container home on the site, you must first construct a sturdy foundation to anchor it to the ground. A strong, well-built foundation may cost a few extra dollars, but it will make sure that the weight is spread out evenly and that your shelter will stand strong.

They're for the wealthy people

In reference to what has been stated concerning the cost of shipping container homes, there is no fixed monetary value for shipping container homes. This, however, implies that there is a wide range of pricing options. Yes, it is true that some shipping container homes are quite expensive, but the best part about shipping container homes is that they are highly customizable; you can, in essence, pick your own price. To learn more, read our in-depth post on the price of home containers here at FSE Automation.

Their longevity is limited

Shipping companies retire containers after 10 to 12 years, but if they are repurposed as homes, they can easily live over 50 years with good upkeep.

Insulating foam is required

This container house myth does not apply to everyone. Insulation foam spray has several advantages. Insulation foam regulates the internal temperature of the container and prevents moisture from forming. Occasionally, though, your shipping container home will already be well insulated. If not, there are alternatives to spray-on insulation foam. However, insulation is also available in the form of blankets, panels, mud walls, etc.

Container homes are more environmentally friendly than other dwelling solutions

While it is true that people who are concerned about minimizing their carbon footprint favor shipping container homes, these homes are not inherently more sustainable than other types of housing. Your shipping container home will also last as long as the materials you use to furnish it, how well it saves energy, and how well it is insulated.

You cannot sell them again

It is simple for individuals to resell their shipping container homes. Because they may be shipped anywhere, well-kept ones can retain their resale value and be quickly resold.

The majority of shipping container homes are affordable, but not all. Some are designed and constructed for wealthy individuals. While it is true that a regular shipping container is significantly less expensive than a typical house, this does not mean that you can create any house you want and instantly save money.

Converted containers cannot be transported

The theory may make sense: once a shipping container structure is constructed, it is immobile and cannot be relocated. However, contrary to popular belief, converted shipping containers are not always stationary. In fact, they are the complete opposite.

Due to the portability of shipping containers, they can be transported virtually anywhere for the duration of their useful lives! If you intend to relocate your structure in the near future, this is likely extremely good news. Transporting modified shipping containers is surprisingly simple, and they can be moved anywhere for the length of their lives.

Modifications to shipping containers are temporary

While searching for a permanent place, many individuals disregard the potential of converting cargo containers. They feel shipping containers are "too transient" for their mission. However, as numerous pleased customers will attest, this is not the case.

Even though the original structures that surrounded them have disappeared, shipping containers remain intact! Evidently, shipping containers are more robust and durable than conventional building materials. Modifications to shipping containers are far more permanent than conventional construction techniques.

They are ugly

A fast Google Images search for "shipping container homes" will reveal a variety of fantastic-looking container homes on the interior and exterior. In addition to their stunning exteriors, shipping container homes can also have cozy and lovely interiors.

They are noisy

The number of items in a home, the type of flooring, and other variables determine whether a home is noisy. There is also the chance that the noise level of a residence may vary based on the time of day and the presence of animals. It is possible to add carpeting, wood floors, and drywall to shipping container homes to lessen the metallic sound.

Final thought

We hope this article has shed some light on the myths and realities surrounding the construction of homes from shipping containers. Use common sense and logical reasoning, and always begin with a plan, just like you would with any other construction approach.

If you are interested in learning more about making a home out of shipping containers, FSE Company can supply containers to a wide range of businesses and purposes. Regardless of your specific requirements, our team is here to ensure that you receive the desired products at the most competitive prices.