ANSWERS TO DESIGN QUESTIONS

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Hello, I would like some of your input into my idea to build a simple container house design to achieve a future net zero house standard (2-story 3x40' per floor-simple rain water collection system, grey water system, solar hot water and grid connected PV system).  Ideally, I would like to have the the 2 story house located above the a garage like area, so that the 2 story of containers are supported by 10' steel columns (allows 2' for mechanical/plumbing with 8' clearance) which are then imbedded into concrete columns that are placed about 12' into clay ground (bearing and frost requirements). Also, my parents would like to build a cheap and simple beach house in southeast Asia, would containers work (2x20' or 2x40') on piers to withstand flooding and future sea rise. Any advice on this due to hot humid and salt laden air?

Is it ok to use shipping containers in a maritime environment?  Is it feasible to use containers for floathomes if the shell is protected, and water-trapping pockets are eliminated?


Since shipping containers have gone up a lot in the last 18  months, is this build possible on such a small budget? Also any info on type of foundations? and reinforcing the roof to take roof  garden?


As I understand it, by the time I insulate the walls, floor and roof to r30, I would not be able to stand up in the space. How does one insulate a container project?


How is container housing different from the traditional construction methods in terms of durability and sustainability? Will it not wear and tear in some 5-10 years given that it is prefabricated steel? If so, what are the preventive measures for such problems primarily rust? Another thing, since we plan to construct in a tropical country, would humidity be an issue and add to the withstanding issue of corrosion? Also, since the climate is fairly hot and humid, what will be an ideal insulation/ wall treatment and roofing?