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About-the-House

Container workshop

There is a surplus of unused shipping containers sitting on docks around the world. The reason being is that it’s likely that it’s cheaper to send goods in new containers than to co-ordinate and ship a used one back for redeployment.

In areas where wood framing materials are scarce, it makes sense that it is cheaper to use a converted shipping container for a similarly scaled structure out of wood framing. The result is a wave of awareness that the containers can be repurposed into a home, studio or a plain old storage shed.

While there have been plenty of attractive and innovative examples of modular shipping container homes, their set size is typically their largest shortcoming. With the help of the internet and a CAD program, the talented and resourceful DIY’er can design every last detail of an ISO shipping container right down to the millimeter.

For those that desire the help of a Pro, we have companies right here in Kelowna that furnish container homes that are CSA approved for installation anywhere in Canada. Once converted, locally made container homes feature doors, windows, insulation, vinyl panelling, lighting, heating, air conditioning, ventilation, and data hookups. Once inside, you’ll find modern plumbing, water-heaters, three-piece bathrooms, kitchen, and living spaces.

Home inspections take me into neighborhoods throughout the valley. More and more I’m seeing containers converted into cabins, offices and workshops. It’s safe to say that in rural areas homeowners themselves are the ones that work on and improve their homes. In order to custom build his home himself, Terry set up with a dedicated shop. A used container was a great start. The story goes that the Regional District didn’t like the looks of Terry’s sea can at the end of his build and gave him an ultimatum. Well, with all of the love that came out of Terry’s shop, he finished the exterior and gave the container a home of its own.

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.



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About the Author

When you need advice or guidance with DIY home improvement and repairs, Hugh Cairns can help you with the answers.

Home improvements can be rewarding, turn your home into a nicer more comfortable place to live, and increase its value.

Whether you are renovating your kitchen, converting a loft, giving a room a lick of paint or making improvements to your home’s energy efficiency, this column is here to guide you with useful information and key things to remember.

Do you have a renovation question or concern? Please feel free to send Hugh your questions. Contact him through www.subject2homeinspections.com



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The views expressed are strictly those of the author and not necessarily those of Castanet. Castanet does not warrant the contents.

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