shipping container carport July 24, 2023 – Posted in: Uncategorized
shipping container carport The Ultimate Guide to Shipping Container Carports
Photo by mortenhjerpsted on Pixabay
Carports have become a popular choice for homeowners who want to protect their vehicles without the expense of building a garage. And now, there’s a new trend in carport construction – shipping container carports. These innovative structures offer durability, affordability, and the ability to repurpose existing materials. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about shipping container carports, including their benefits, types, installation process, and cost. shipping container carport
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is a Shipping Container Carport?
- Benefits of Shipping Container Carports
- Types of Shipping Container Carports
- Metal Shipping Container Carports
- Timber Shipping Container Carports
- Portable Shipping Container Carports
- Permanent Shipping Container Carports
- Specialty Shipping Container Carports
- Gable Roof Shipping Container Carports
- Flat Roof Shipping Container Carports
- Flemish Gable Shipping Container Carports
- Attached Shipping Container Carports
- How to Build a Shipping Container Carport
- Container Purchase
- Site Preparation
- Building the Carport
- Considerations for Building Carports with Shipping Containers
- Container Cover Roof Costs
- Positioning the Roof
- Ideal Container Size for a Carport
- Installing Container Roofs
- Foundation and Leveling for a Container Carport
- Shipping Container Carports vs. Traditional Carports
- Real-Life Example of a Shipping Container Carport
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
1. Introduction
Carports have long been a popular choice for protecting vehicles from the elements. However, traditional carports can be expensive to build and often lack the durability and security of a garage. That’s where shipping container carports come in. These innovative structures provide an affordable, customizable, and sustainable solution for vehicle protection. In this guide, we’ll delve into the world of shipping container carports, exploring their benefits, types, installation process, and more.
2. What is a Shipping Container Carport?
A shipping container carport is a carport constructed using repurposed shipping containers. These containers, typically made of steel, offer a sturdy and weather-proof structure for protecting vehicles from rain, snow, and other challenging weather conditions. Shipping container carports can be built to various sizes and configurations, making them suitable for different needs and preferences. Additionally, these carports can be easily modified and customized to suit individual requirements, making them a versatile option for homeowners.
3. Benefits of Shipping Container Carports
Shipping container carports offer numerous benefits over traditional carports or garages. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Affordability: Shipping container carports are often more affordable than traditional carports or garages. By repurposing shipping containers, homeowners can save on material costs while still obtaining a durable and functional structure.
- Durability: Shipping containers are designed to withstand harsh conditions, making them an excellent choice for carport construction. They are built to be weather-proof, corrosion-resistant, and structurally sound, ensuring the long-term protection of vehicles.
- Customizability: One of the major advantages of shipping container carports is their customizability. Homeowners can easily modify the containers to fit their specific needs, whether it’s adding doors, windows, or additional storage space.
- Sustainability: Repurposing shipping containers for carport construction is an environmentally-friendly choice. It reduces waste and promotes the reuse of materials, making it a sustainable option for homeowners who are conscious of their environmental impact.
- Versatility: Shipping container carports can be used for more than just vehicle protection. With their sturdy structure, they can also serve as storage space, workshops, or even outdoor seating areas.
4. Types of Shipping Container Carports
There are various types of shipping container carports, each offering unique features and benefits. Here are the most common types:
Metal Shipping Container Carports
Metal shipping container carports are constructed using steel or aluminum containers. These carports are lightweight, durable, and have a long lifespan. Steel carports, in particular, are galvanized and often corrugated, providing additional protection against rain and moisture. Alumawood carports offer a wood-like aesthetic while maintaining the durability of metal. Aluminum carports, on the other hand, allow for custom design and can be painted to suit individual preferences.
Timber Shipping Container Carports
Timber or wooden shipping container carports are aesthetically pleasing and can be integrated with existing outdoor spaces. They can also be used as pergolas for outdoor seating areas. However, it’s important to note that wood requires regular maintenance to avoid decay and deterioration.
Portable Shipping Container Carports
Portable shipping container carports are ideal for those who don’t require year-round vehicle protection. Made of stainless steel, these carports are easy to assemble and disassemble, making them suitable for both residential and commercial use.
Permanent Shipping Container Carports
Permanent shipping container carports are fixed structures that cannot be easily moved. They are typically made of metal or wood and can be customized according to the homeowner’s preferences. Permanent carports are ideal for homeowners who need constant vehicle protection throughout the year.
Specialty Shipping Container Carports
Specialty shipping container carports are custom-sized and designed to meet specific needs. These carports are often used for parking boats, campers, or semi-trucks.
Gable Roof Shipping Container Carports
Gable roof shipping container carports feature a tapered roof with corners bent downwards. This design is suitable for areas with high rainfall as it allows water to slide off effortlessly. Additionally, gable roofs blend in with the original structure, providing a more uniform aesthetic.
Flat Roof Shipping Container Carports
Flat roof shipping container carports have a simple, flat roof design. They are suitable for areas with moderate rainfall and are effective at catching dry leaves and bird droppings. Flat roof carports are also cost-effective and easy to install.
Flemish Gable Shipping Container Carports
Flemish gable shipping container carports are an extension of the traditional gable roof design. They feature a sloping pediment construction, giving a modern look to the house. Flemish gable carports can also serve as additional entertainment areas for parties and gatherings.
Attached Shipping Container Carports
Attached shipping container carports are structures that are connected to the main house with a roof extension. These carports can also act as pathways to detached sheds or garages.
5. How to Build a Shipping Container Carport
Building a shipping container carport involves several steps, from container purchase to site preparation and actual construction. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
Container Purchase
Before starting the construction of a shipping container carport, it’s essential to carefully inspect the container for any damage, cracks, or residues. Look for a shipping container yard in your area to save on transportation costs. Choose a container size that suits your space and requirements.
Site Preparation
Prepare the site for the carport by leveling the ground and placing the container on concrete blocks. This provides a sturdy base for the carport and ensures stability.
Building the Carport
When building the carport, make sure there is enough room to open the container doors. Use self-tapping screws for assembling the carport without the need for welding. Additionally, construct a concrete ramp with crushed asphalt for easy vehicle access. Consider installing security cameras and electricity wires for added safety and convenience.
6. Considerations for Building Carports with Shipping Containers
When building carports with shipping containers, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some key considerations:
Container Cover Roof Costs
Shipping container carports offer cost-effective solutions compared to traditional options. The cost of a container-based roof depends on factors such as the condition of the container and the installation cost per square foot. While used containers may range from $2,350 to $7,900, new containers will be more expensive. Additionally, corrugated steel sheets ensure strength and longevity.
Positioning the Roof
The roof of a shipping container carport can be attached to either the inside or outside edges of two containers. Attaching the roof to the inside edges uses less metal and is cheaper, but it exposes the container roof to harsher conditions. On the other hand, attaching the roof to the outside edges provides more protection to the containers and offers extra storage space underneath. Consider the climate and your specific needs when deciding on the positioning of the roof.
Ideal Container Size for a Carport
For a shipping container carport, the smallest recommended container size is 20 feet. However, a larger 40-foot container can provide additional space. Designing the carport with two carports on either side of a container can be cost-effective in the long run.
Installing Container Roofs
Container roofs are easy to install due to their modular nature. They can be easily cut and fastened using bolts. Ensure proper foundation and leveling for the container carport to maintain stability and durability.
Foundation and Leveling for a Container Carport
Before constructing a container carport, prepare the site by removing debris, rocks, trees, or any other obstructions. The ground should be leveled, and a sturdy base should be established to support the weight of the container.
7. Shipping Container Carports vs. Traditional Carports
While traditional carports have their advantages, shipping container carports offer unique benefits that make them a compelling alternative. Here are some key differences between the two:
- Affordability: Shipping container carports are often more affordable to build than traditional carports, thanks to the use of repurposed materials.
- Durability: Shipping containers are built to withstand harsh conditions, making them more durable than traditional carports.
- Customizability: Shipping container carports can be easily modified and customized to suit individual preferences, providing more versatility than traditional carports.
- Sustainability: Repurposing shipping containers for carport construction promotes sustainability by reducing waste and reusing existing materials.
- Storage: Traditional carports are primarily used for vehicle protection, while shipping container carports offer lockable storage space for expensive tools and equipment.
8. Real-Life Example of a Shipping Container Carport
To illustrate the benefits and process of building a shipping container carport, let’s explore a real-life example. In Texas, a family used a shipping container carport to protect their vehicles and provide food storage for their pets. Here are the key details of their project:
- Container Purchase: The family inspected the container for any damage or residues and found a local shipping container yard to save on transportation costs.
- Site Preparation: They leveled the ground and placed the container on concrete blocks to create a stable base.
- Building the Carport: The family ensured there was ample space to open the container doors and used self-tapping screws for easy assembly. They also built a concrete ramp for vehicle access and installed security cameras and electricity wires for added convenience.
9. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you use a shipping container as a garage? A: Yes, shipping containers can be repurposed as garages. Their durability, speed of construction, flexibility, and cost make them an excellent choice for garage construction. Shipping container garages also provide a secure and protected space for vehicles.
Q: Is a shipping container carport cheaper than a shed? A: Yes, a used 20-foot shipping container is generally more affordable than a wooden shed. While a container may cost between $2,350 and $7,900, a wooden shed can start at around $4,300 and increase in price as additional features are added.
10. Conclusion
Shipping container carports offer an affordable, durable, and customizable solution for vehicle protection. With their unique benefits, including affordability, durability, customizability, and sustainability, shipping container carports are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners. Whether you choose a metal or timber carport, portable or permanent, gable or flat roof design, a shipping container carport provides a versatile and secure space for your vehicles. Consider the benefits and options outlined in this guide to make an informed decision when building your own shipping container carport.