3 Common Myths About Shipping Container Homes

Written by Susan Nalevac | April 26, 2022

A growing trend in the housing market is using containers for materials and construction. As the trend continues to grow, myths and misconceptions also emerge.

Below are some common myths about shipping container homes, with facts that debunk them and explain why they're false.

Myths About Shipping Containers:

1. Shipping Containers Homes Are Too Hot or Too Cold
2. Container Home Construction is Complex
3. Shipping Container Homes Are Expensive

The first and most common myth is that shipping containers are just steel boxes that aren’t meant to be livable. Some believe that in the frigid months of winter or the sweltering heat of summer, they make for rather uncomfortable homes.

Fact: Container Homes Can Withstand All Elements

Don’t forget that engineers design shipping containers to withstand all kinds of elements across the world and that containers traverse oceans while protecting their cargo—they can handle a little heat and cold!

Of course, insulation is necessary for any container home, but that’s a simple modification along with air conditioning and windows in the summer.

Myth #2: Container Home Construction is Complex

Another myth is that to turn a shipping container into a livable and attractive home, you’ll have to undergo complex, time-consuming, and expensive construction.

Fact: Shipping Containers Can Be Renovated Easily

Whether building a single-container home or constructing a multi-container, multi-level house, containers are simple and easy to work with. Shipping containers are reliable and made of structurally sound materials, so you already have a solid foundation to work with instead of constructing a brand-new one with expensive materials and additional labor costs.

The simple construction and sturdy materials of a container make them ideal for renovations and construction, whether it’s a single-container home or something more extensive.

Myth #3: Shipping Container Homes Are Expensive

Lastly, some people claim building a comfortable and attractive shipping container home will cost just as much, if not more, money than traditional housing.

Fact: Container Homes Started as Affordable Alternatives

Suppose you’re going to build an intricate mansion using multiple shipping containers stacked on top of one another. In that case, you’re probably spending a similar amount of money compared to a traditional home. However, container homes began as affordable alternatives to expensive homes and construction, and still are today.

Container homes can still be much more affordable than a typical home if you choose a single container construction or keep your design simple. Plus, with the housing market and costs of construction materials exploding, even an elaborate design of multiple containers will save you more money than traditional housing, depending on your area’s market.

For instance, in a seller's housing market like Houston, TX, you could save a lot of money by choosing to buy shipping containers there and renovating them into a home!

Conclusion

There are many common myths about shipping container homes, but most are just that—myths.

To get an honest, expert opinion on the promise of shipping containers, consult with the professionals at Container Management, Inc.!