Shipping containers aren’t just great for developing an off-grid home or backyard office – they’re also an incredible way to extend your existing home without breaking the bank.
Rather than designing and building a complex extension using traditional methods, wonderfully adaptable shipping containers can offer a cheaper, faster and smarter solution.
While this unconventional approach certainly has its unique challenges, a sturdy shipping container might just transform your existing home for the better. Below, we cover the basics you need to know.
Create a Plan
Create a detailed plan to make the most of this cost-effective approach to home extensions. First, that means fully understanding what you want to achieve, whether that's a new lounge room or a dynamic space where the kids can let their imaginations run wild.
This step will help you determine what size shipping container you need. Plus, you can consider the must-have features – like heating and cooling, specific electrical connections and plumbing – to ensure it becomes the most comfortable extension possible.
Prepare the Site
Although shipping containers have proved remarkably flexible for construction projects, you must figure out whether this approach makes sense for your situation. For instance, making room for the delivery of a shipping container might be impossible for some homeowners.
If you decide to move forward with a shipping container extension, prepare the site by levelling the surface, accounting for underground utilities and checking local regulations to ensure you aren’t breaking the law. This way, your project can run incredibly smoothly.
Choose the Ideal Container
Considering the various shipping containers available, you might discover more options than previously thought when planning your extension. Research the different sizes and dimensions to maximise your space’s potential and level up your project.
For example, shipping container length ranges from 8ft to 40ft. However, containers also come in different heights, with HC (high cube) varieties adding an extra foot to standard options. Get to know your options before launching into the building process.
Modify and Decorate
Once you’ve prepared the site and purchased the ideal shipping container for your project, you must make modifications that ensure it slots in seamlessly with the rest of your home. This could mean adding windows, sliding doors, insulation or electrical systems.
After the container is installed on a solid foundation, like a concrete slab, it's time to apply the finishing touches. From customised lighting to wooden floors and a fresh coat of paint, these details make a shipping container feel just as welcoming as a traditional extension.
Find Your Shipping Container Today
Looking to buy or hire a top-notch shipping container for your home, business or storage needs? Chat with the friendly team at Southwest Containers to get the latest advice. Our in-depth knowledge ensures our customers find the perfect shipping container solution for their needs.