CUBE-CASA Modular Living Units vs Shipping Container

Shipping Container Homes Could Have Structural Issues

A shipping container is very strong at the corners, but the roof is not that strong, so typically you need to build another roof over it, especially where there will be snow. Also, the corrugated steel walls are important to the strength of the structure. This means anywhere you cut out a large window, or door opening requires new reinforcement. And when they are stacked together to make larger homes, welded (expensive) reinforcement is needed wherever two containers join at a spot that is not a corner. Any later renovations require significant engineering and welding.

CUBE CASA only uses new materials, no welding, all members are modular and connected with stainless steel bolts, making future expansion very easy.

What Was in the Shipping Container?

It’s often not possible to know what has been shipped in a used container – anything from harmless consumer goods to hazardous industrial materials – or what the container has been through. And the paints and finishes used on containers are industrial, intended for shipping, not residential homes so that they could contain lead and toxic pesticides.

CUBE CASA only uses environmentally friendly materials, that are non-toxic, or harmful to, humans, pets, and Mother Nature.

The Space and Shape of The Shipping Container

The size of shipping containers is quite limiting and can quickly be consumed by plumbing, HVAC, insulation, and other systems. A container was designed to fit on a train, which means it’s narrow, and ordinary furniture doesn’t fit right. A standard container is also only 8 ft high, which doesn’t leave much headroom after insulation and wiring are installed.

CUBE CASA interior dimensions are not limited, the cube-shaped modules give you the flexibility to create any floor space you desire, and even add a second floor.

A clear floor-to-ceiling height of 2700 MM, make CUBE CASA feel spacious and enhances better indoor air circulation.

Shipping Container Home Insulation Challenges

The narrow shape of a shipping container doesn’t lend itself to insulating the exterior very well. To avoid using up interior space, a relatively thin layer of insulation with a high R-value per inch, such as polyurethane spray foam is often used. Although spray foam is an effective and airtight insulator, the blowing agents used in many brands of spray foam are powerful greenhouse gases. Making a poor insulation decision can have a negative impact on climate change than other kinds of insulation. To make a really well-insulated wall, it would be better to build outward for more wall thickness and use a more environmentally sustainable kind of insulation. But then what use is a heavy, corrugated steel exterior if it’s buried in insulation?

CUBE CASA, Construction of exterior walls and ceiling are sandwiched composite board panels with 50 MM polystyrene insulation, that keep the interior cool, good insulation saves money in electric bills.

CUBE CASA is easy to transport in a small truck, unlike a sea container that needs a big truck and chassis and moves the container to its location, then a crane is needed to unload the container, those are all additional expenses, it’s even getting more difficult or impossible if the roads are steep and narrow to reach the location.