As house prices keep rising in Ireland with no end in sight, new home-owners are looking for other types of affordable homes. Shipping container homes, log cabins, modular and mobile homes are fast becoming popular as a direct result.
Steel homes, repurposed from shipping containers, offer an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional housing.
Let us explore the commonly asked questions about shipping container homes and their potential to help address Ireland’s housing crisis.
Container Homes Ireland – FAQS.
How much does it cost to build a container home in Ireland?
According to GTL Containers, one of Ireland’s premier builders of shipping container homes, a high-end 1-bedroom 40ft (2.5M x 12M) is priced from €65,000 and upward.
Do You need Planning Permission for a Shipping Container Home in Ireland?
Yes.
You need planning permission for any building whose primary use is to live and sleep in. It does not matter how big or small.
However, you do not need planning permission if your shipping container is under 25 square meters and used primarily as a storage, office space, art space, etc.
Read more on our blog post HERE.
What is the lifespan of container homes?
With proper construction and maintenance, your shipping container home can last between 25-50 years.
Is it worth it to build a shipping container home?
I feel this question deserves a whole blog post on its own. The best answer is that it depends.
However, let us briefly outline as many advantages and disadvantages of buying a container home first.
Advantages of a Shipping Container Home
- Affordability – Lower cost compared to traditional homes. Also perfect for single persons or couples.
- Sustainability – Repurposing containers reduces environmental impact as opposed to building it from scratch.
- Quick Construction – Faster build times are achieved due to prefabricated components.
- Durability – Container homes in Ireland are built to withstand Ireland’s changing weather conditions.
- Versatility – Modular design means that you can easily customise and/or expand the container home.
- Mobility – It is easy to transport and relocate if you want to do so in the future.
- Off-Grid Potential – Suitable for off-grid living with solar panels and water collection systems.
- Minimal Maintenance – Steel homes require less upkeep compared to traditional homes. Especially if a good steel home builder has worked on it.
- Eco-Friendly – Container home cosntruction reduces the need for new construction materials and minimizes waste.
Disdvantages of a Shipping Container Home
- Limited Space – The narrow shape of containers may limit interior design options. Also, it may be simply claustrophobic if you are used to having large spaces.
- Insulation Challenges – Containers require proper insulation to regulate temperature. And manufacturers charge a hefty price to guarantee A-rating energy efficiency.
- Modification Costs – Customising a container home can greatly increase overall expenses in many cases.
- Permit Issues – Getting planning permission as an individual in Ireland can be a nightmare. And the more unorthodox the project, the harder it can be to have planning permission.
- Potential Rust and Corrosion – Corrosion can occur over time if containers are not properly maintained.
- Condensation Problems – Insufficient ventilation may lead to moisture buildup and mold issues in the long run.
- Difficulty in Financing – Traditional lenders may be hesitant to provide loans for container homes.
- Transportation Constraints – Access to remote or difficult-to-reach locations can be challenging.
- Stigma and Perception – Some people may have negative perceptions with container homes. This may make it very difficult for you if you want to sell your home in the future.
Whether it is worth it or not to build a container home in Ireland, that would depend on the mix of the good and the bad above, and the buyer’s current budget and needs.
Who are the Best Luxury Shipping Container Home Builders in Ireland?
| # | Name | Address | Website |
| 1 | Self Contained | Unit 2 Damastown Walk, Damastown Ind Est, Dublin 15. D15PNN4 | HERE |
| 2 | GTL Container Homes | Balrobin, County Louth, A91 Y8NR | HERE |
| 3 | Eco Smart Hubs | Boley Hill, Fethard On Sea, Wexford | HERE |
| 4 | Contain Experts | Merrywell Business Park Ballymount Road Lower Dublin 12 | HERE |
| 5 | Crossan Container Conversions | 21 Umrycam Road, Feeny, NI, BT47 4TJ | HERE |
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