How to Insulate a Shipping Container Home

Inside of a shipping container that has been insulated

Do you know how vital insulation is for a shipping container home? If you don’t, then I suggest you take a second look at shipping containers — not the kind you stuff with fragile items and ship by sea; but the type of containers you see on highways and in large groups towering against the sky.

Insulation helps ensure that your shipping container home stays warm in the winter. The closer your containers are to the ideal temperature, the less electricity they will require. Having proper insulation also means your energy bills will go a bit smoother.

Inside of insulated container

Steps To Take Before Insulation:

  • Know the required steps & materials
  • Prepare the space for a shipping container install
  • Enlist help (such as from landscapers) if needed
  • Deconstruct the shipping container
  • Seal the container accordingly

How to Insulate a Shipping Container Home

  • Remove any insulation on the exterior walls to reduce air infiltration in the home
  • Install spray foam insulation
  • Install a vapor barrier on all exterior side to eliminate moisture infiltration at the building envelope
  • Install an energy recovery ventilation system to substantially reduce energy usage in the home

Common Questions Related To Insulating A Shipping Container Home

Man installing fiberglass insulation in a shipping container home
  • How much insulation is needed to insulate a shipping container home?
    The amount of insulation needed to insulate a shipping container home depends on a number of factors. The walls, ceiling, and floors must be insulated to protect the house and its dwellers from the harmful effects of humidity and temperature.
  • Why should insulation be suspended in the ceiling of a shipping container home?
    Insulation suspended from the roof of your shipping container home will benefit you in a number of ways. The insulation will trap in the heat from the sun, which will keep your home warm during the winter. Insulating your roof will also keep your home cool during the summer. When you insulate your roof, you save money. Not only will you save on energy costs, but you will also ensure that your home remains comfortable throughout the heating and cooling seasons.
  • What are the different advantages that come with insulating a shipping container home?
    There are several advantages that come with insulating a shipping container home :
  1. The insulation will ensure that your home stays cool during the summer and stays warm during the winter.
  2. Insulating your home will lower your energy costs.
  3. Insulated homes also keep out outside noises.
  • What is the purpose of a vapor barrier in a shipping container home?
    Your shipping container home needs to be insulated from the outside elements. After all, your living expenses are at stake. Using a vapor barrier can help you achieve a comfortable home during colder months.
  • What type of insulation is most beneficial against the cold?
    The best type of insulation for cold weather is foam board insulation which comes in 2’x4′ sheets. This type of insulation is easy to install and can save you about $50 a year in energy costs. You may also want to insulate your pipes, roof, walls and floors with foam board insulation.

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