Modular construction with shipping containers is changing the way innovative architects, designers, and even home and business owners approach their construction projects. In this article, we will look at 10 advantages of modular building as one of the most viable construction solutions.
What is modular construction?
Modular construction uses prefabricated units to streamline the building process. Units are built offsite to specific standards that range from walls complete with drywall, electrical, and plumbing to finished rooms.
The modular construction method helps maintain a higher standard through quality control, reduces construction waste, creates safer construction work conditions, and facilitates speedier construction through modular assembly.
What are shipping containers?
Shipping containers are steel boxes designed to transport goods. Their corrugated design increases their strength to resist bending or collapsing from excess weight. This detail makes them stackable for transport via truck, train, or sea.
The metal shells are made of highly durable, corrosion-resistant Corten steel that withstands changing climates. The sizes meet the requirements of the International Organization for Standardization dimensions, providing units suited to modular construction applications.
1.Shipping containers facilitate quicker construction
Supply chain challenges for building materials are slowing the ability to overcome housing shortages. Shipping container homes consist of pre-made modules that improve efficiency, providing ready-made “building blocks” that come together much like Lego bricks.
Rapid construction capabilities also facilitate streamlined construction processes, offering immediate shelter in case of emergencies such as forest fires and other natural disasters.
2.Modular construction with shipping containers is affordable
Cost-effective construction solutions are always in high demand. Shipping containers are readily available and relatively affordable compared to traditional building materials. They simplify the costly design process with standardized sizes, allowing architects and engineers to quickly configure designs (much like putting together a puzzle).
With prefabricated modular units, quicker construction also saves money on labour and general construction project costs. As well, purchasing used containers improves affordability.
3.Shipping containers support environmental sustainability
Modular construction with shipping containers is sustainable, especially when sourcing used containers. The sturdy steel construction creates a durable module that can be repurposed once it outlives its original use. Instead of creating waste, used shipping containers avoid the use of new materials, as well as materials that contribute to construction site waste.
As green building practices become more popular, unique resources such as repurposed shipping containers are changing the way builders approach the use of more conventional building materials.
4.Shipping containers contribute to structural integrity
The solid steel construction of shipping containers makes them inherently durable and resilient. As a result, modular construction with shipping containers improves structural integrity.
The built-in exterior siding design also withstands changing environmental conditions. In fact, steel is also pest, fire, and rot-resistant, expanding the life of modular structures.
5.Shipping containers are modern and attractive
The edgy look of corrugated steel on container homes, mobile offices, and pop-up boutiques has a modern aesthetic that works across many applications. Whether the entire structure consists of containers or containers are used for certain elements, rooms, or additions, design innovations using shipping containers are making their mark on modern architectural trends. They instantly catch the eye, creating an unexpected design element with an industrial chic appeal.
However, they can also be designed to be more sophisticated with paint applications in elegant charcoal or black finishes, or dressed down for a more rustic appeal. When combined with other materials such as brick, wood, or siding, container-based designs create visually compelling focal points or can fade into the background to create a sense of unity.
6.Shipping containers are scalable
As mentioned, shipping containers can be used as modular building blocks, fitting together to create functional spaces. As a stackable module, shipping containers can also facilitate expansion for both container homes and commercial properties. Urban spaces, from schools to healthcare facilities and office complexes to shopping malls, remain scalable to accommodate vertical growth.
7.Shipping containers create flexible spaces
Modular construction with shipping containers is flexible, offering construction solutions across a surprising number of projects. From container homes to mobile offices and home offices to self-contained guest units, shipping containers offer endless possibilities to create additional space.
They are highly customizable, allowing designers to meet the needs of both residential and commercial clients. They can also be used as either a permanent structure or mobile space, from pop-up retail boutiques to event booths, and construction site offices to mobile vacation homes.
8.Shipping containers are more profitable
Speedy construction solutions help drive profitability for builders, construction companies, and contractors who rely on completed projects to generate income. They require smaller crews, reduce labour hours, and mitigate the risk of costly logistical delays. From an owner’s standpoint, the durability and appeal of container construction projects can also increase property value for a higher ROI when sold.
9.Shipping containers come in ready-made sizes
Available in 10- to 40-foot lengths, typical room sizes are easily accommodated with shipping containers. They can be placed side by side with cutouts to improve flow throughout the home or commercial space. With a standard height of 8 feet, they are also ideally sized to accommodate required ceiling heights.
Their narrowness can pose a problem for open-concept designs. However, with well-thought-out layouts and logical connections between boxes, designers can create functional spaces. As a result, shipping containers offer viable construction solutions for multiple project designs.
10.Shipping containers are designed for transportation
Shipping containers are mobile by nature as part of an international shipping system. Therefore, even large projects using multiple containers are relatively easy to deliver, offload, and set up at the construction site.
Contact the Professionals at Secure Container Solutions
Modular construction with shipping containers might not be a standard for builders today. However, as the cost of construction and building materials soars, demand for modular methods and materials will continue to increase.
For more information about our shipping container sizes in Ontario, or to learn more about how our container rental process works, call Secure Container Solutions at 647-560-2745 or contact us here.
Leave a Reply