A shipping container can be so much more than just a sturdy storage tool.
Recently, they have been used as great building materials, offering the possibility of making amazing structures with unique designs.
A custom-designed and built shipping container can be used for many things, from building additional modern guest houses to running a business from it.
However, one of those structures that are currently growing in
opularity across the world is a shipping container shed.
Building a shipping container shed for your garden, will not only offer plenty of nice storage room for tools and equipment but will also provide you with an amazing-looking addition to your outdoor space that will make this structure stand out from the rest as well.
If you are thinking of adding one to your garden, check out these ideas and tricks on how to build a perfect shipping container shed for your needs.
Find a Reputable Supplier
The first step to building a shipping container shed is finding the right used storage containers for sale.
Even though it might be tempting to build your structure from used or recycled materials, you will need to make sure that everything you put together is safe and sturdy.
Therefore, it is best to find a shipping container supplier instead, who has plenty of different storage unit options in stock to offer you.
The best way to do this is through online platforms that can help you easily connect with storage container suppliers that offer only the best new or used shipping containers for sale in your area.
Finding a reliable supplier who can ship used or second-hand shipping containers directly to your address will save you time, hassle, and money.
As seen at Boxhub, the best storage container suppliers will have a wide range of different sizes, styles, and designs to choose from.
Whether you opt for new or used storage solutions, you will find something that you need.
Pick The Right Container Size
Before you start building your shipping container shed, it is vital to determine the size that will suit you best.
That’s why it is important to consider what you plan on using the space for.
Make sure to take into account different factors that may affect your decision including the size of your garden, the type of equipment you plan on storing, and how much space you have to work with around the area.
A good way to go about this is by choosing either 20- or 40-foot long shipping containers, with 40-footers being perfect if you’re looking at storing larger equipment like woodworking tools.
You should also consider the height of your container when making a decision.
If you plan to use it as a working area, you will need to add a little more headroom to have a comfortable workspace.
In this case, it is best to choose containers with 8-foot long ceilings and forgo them if they come with 9- and 10-foot high interiors.
Choose A Container Design
What design you choose will depend mostly on what type of storage space you’re looking for.
You can opt to have all four walls built or just two, the ones that also act as the entrance into your container shed.
The exterior options are numerous and it is up to you to decide whether you wish to go with something simple like having them painted in a certain color or embellishing them with engravings.
If this is not an option you’d like to pursue, then consider using containers that already come with stylish designs on them.
For a more industrial look, pick containers with corrugated steel walls and for something less industrial, opt to have the exterior made out of metal or wood slats instead.
Additionally, If it is near your house, make sure that whatever color you choose doesn’t clash with any colors used indoors.
That way you can go all out with creating unique designs for this amazing addition to your home.
Decide On The Type Of Roof And Floor
A common mistake that many people make when they are building a shipping container shed is skimping on the roof and floor design.
This is something that you need to avoid, especially since most of the materials used in these areas are what determine how safe your storage space will be.
That’s why it is best if you have professionals handle this part of the project so nothing gets overlooked during this stage of construction.
If you plan on having a raised foundation, opt for lightweight materials like plywood over steel or concrete slabs to lay down as flooring at least 4-6 inches above ground level.
That way your wooden foundation won’t rot away quickly and if you live in an area where there are heavy downpours, it will help you avoid having your container rotting away or being flooded.
If you instead have a concrete foundation poured before putting together your storage shed, then you’ll need to put in thicker slabs that will be able to withstand any weight placed on top of them.
If you’re planning on using the container for storing heavier items, then opt for 1/2-inch thick steel-reinforced concrete floors with 6-inch footings below them.
Protect All Openings With Weather Stripping And Caulking
All openings must be properly sealed and protected against the elements if you want to make sure that water damage doesn’t affect your storage space.
Start by weather stripping along every seam where two container panels meet and make sure to caulk them as well, focusing on the bottom part of the seams.
Another option is to buy containers that already come with weather stripping or those that were manufactured with sealing in mind.
This way you will be able to skip this step and spend more time enjoying your amazing new storage space instead.
Whatever design you decide on, just ensure that it is properly sealed and you’ll be good to go.
Add The Finishing Touches
Once the base is done and all openings are sealed off, you can start working on the finishing touches that will turn your storage space into a stunning structure.
Start by adding skylights if want to give this area more natural light.
If you’re looking for something less permanent, then opt to use roll-up plastic windows instead.
That way you can let in more sunlight or retract them during heavy downpours or extreme heat without having to worry about them breaking too easily.
Also, it is best to leave the interior walls bare until you decide what type of finish it should have.
Once that’s done, you can place drywall panels along the walls or just leave them as they are if they can be painted and sealed with weatherproof paint.
As you can see, building a container shed for your garden can be very easy and affordable if you find the right professionals to help you.
With just a few minor adjustments, most shipping containers can be used as amazing sheds that are functional, comfortable to use, and aesthetically pleasing.
Just make sure to take your time with this project and don’t rush it if you want to avoid the most common pitfalls and enjoy your new modern storage space for many years to come.