Over the last decade or so, it’s become increasingly more trendy to convert shipping containers into homes, offices, kitchens, and a wealth of other creative projects. With the sheer amount of storage containers for sale in NY, it’s incredible how many people are converting them into liveable spaces.
Here are some things to consider if you are thinking of switching a storage container into a home.
View Before you Buy
It seems like a no-brainer, but even if you can’t do a detailed walk through of the potential shipping container, ask the seller to send you some detailed pictures. Old shipping containers may have dents and rust issues. One-trip containers can be slightly more expensive but may be worth the investment if you don’t want to spend money fixing up a damaged vessel.
Plan Your Insulation
A steel shipping container will be too hot during the summer and too cold during the winter unless it’s properly insulated. When designing your shipping container home, ask for expert advice around ideas for insulation. Don’t forget; you’ll probably have to insulate the roof as well as the walls. You may want to consider using sheep’s wool or an interior stud wall. But don’t forget to get advice from the experts before buying!
Protect Against Harmful Chemicals
If you are buying a used shipping container, remember that these commercial vehicles were designed for a life at sea carrying freight. The flooring on these units will often include heavy pesticides to deter rodents and bugs. The paint also contains chemicals to protect from the saltwater spray in the ocean. Rip up the floor and provide foam insulation before gassing off any unwanted paints.
Plan Ahead for all Plumbing and Electrics
When starting to design your shipping container home, have a good idea of the locations where your plumbing and electrical lines will enter and leave the unit. Ask your contractor to cut holes before finishing the interior to avoid more work on your unit further down the line.
We have a large variety of convertible shipping containers for sale in NY. Click here for more information!