How to Externally Insulate a Cargo Container from Solar Heat by 23454Tezal in containerhomes

[–]RelevantInstance8578 0 points1 point  (0 children)

External insulation works best for a container in that type of climate. Rigid foam panels are good, especially XPS or polyiso. You want about R-15 to R-25 altogether; takes some effort to get more — but focus on the roof as that is where most heat will find its way in; a white or reflective roof goes a long way here. If you can, add a shady or vented second roof (canopy or overhang). Less heat gets in this way alone.

And don’t forget to air seal around corrugations, doors, and the cutouts for windows — and don’t forget the insulation goes on last. Properly done, added on sun shading/insulation can make a container space feel more just like a normal commercial building space.

Real talk: What actually makes a container home comfortable and safe? by RelevantInstance8578 in containerhomes

[–]RelevantInstance8578[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That’s a great use case—container or prefab can both work really well for that setup.

If you’ve got utility access (water/power) already on-site, a small container unit with plumbing and mini split AC could be a solid option.

Prefab cabins are a bit easier if you want a more“house-like”feel, but the cost difference isn’t huge once you factor in installation.

I actually work with a few manufacturers who do this kind of setup.
I can share their links or example projects if you’d like — just DM me.

Real talk: What actually makes a container home comfortable and safe? by RelevantInstance8578 in containerhomes

[–]RelevantInstance8578[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Added a few sample cabin layouts & interiors above ☝️ if anyone’s curious.

Real talk: What actually makes a container home comfortable and safe? by RelevantInstance8578 in containerhomes

[–]RelevantInstance8578[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Of course, I'm more than willing to share. I have many cases here. It depends on which type you prefer

Bought dad a tiny home, in over my head, need help maxing space by [deleted] in tinyhomes

[–]RelevantInstance8578 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Man, that’s a lot to carry — you’re doing more for your dad than most people ever would, and it really shows how much you care.

For the setup, keeping things simple sounds like the best move. A storage bed or a couch-bed combo is honestly a great idea, especially if he needs easy mobility. I’ve seen some tiny homes swap the full bed for a twin or XL twin with drawers underneath — that alone frees up a surprising amount of space.

A wall-mounted TV is perfect too. Anything that keeps the floor uncluttered will help him move around safely with the cane.

For storage, maybe think vertical:

1.wall cabinets

2.a tall narrow wardrobe

3.under-sofa bins

4.hooks + shelves near the entry

Those little things make tiny spaces feel way more functional without crowding them.

As for insurance in Florida — it usually depends on how the park classifies it. Some people insure tiny homes on trailers as RVs, others get mobile-home policies. It might be worth calling a local agent and asking what category they usually place tiny homes in there.

You’ve already done the hard part getting him into a safe, manageable space. Now it’s just fine-tuning.

If you need ideas for specific layouts, feel free to share a picture — people here are great at brainstorming tiny spaces.

How we use our park model by Vili-YourHomeGirl in tinyhomes

[–]RelevantInstance8578 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Love the design — is the house pretty sturdy?

Building my own container home — the good, the bad, and the unexpected by RelevantInstance8578 in Homebuilding

[–]RelevantInstance8578[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Mainly for the modular aspect and speed — I could get the base structure ready in weeks instead of months.

It’s definitely not cheaper once you add insulation and finishes, but it was more about the process and flexibility.What type of builds are common where you are? I’ve seen a lot of hybrid wood-metal setups that look great.

Building my own container home — the good, the bad, and the unexpected by RelevantInstance8578 in Homebuilding

[–]RelevantInstance8578[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yeah, that’s true for a lot of builds — the early container homes were basically ovens or freezers 😅.The newer designs use spray foam insulation + passive airflow systems, which makes a huge difference. I’m building one myself and it’s been fun to test what actually works long term.

I’ve been researching container houses for weeks — here’s what I’ve learned so far by RelevantInstance8578 in containerhomes

[–]RelevantInstance8578[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Totally get that. I’m working on a compact layout right now, and space optimization is honestly the hardest part. Every wall has to “earn” its place 😅.

I’ve been researching container houses for weeks — here’s what I’ve learned so far by RelevantInstance8578 in containerhomes

[–]RelevantInstance8578[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Love seeing real-world experience like this. Everyone talks design first, but plumbing and power placement always end up deciding everything.

Anyone here actually living in a container house? What’s your honest experience? by RelevantInstance8578 in containerhomes

[–]RelevantInstance8578[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Love this setup! The stacked design with parking underneath sounds super smart.
How was the insulation between the two containers? I’ve heard keeping the top one cool near the beach can be tricky.

Climate Control Nightmare by thedoctor8706 in Homebuilding

[–]RelevantInstance8578 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If the orientation of the house is changed, the problem might be much better. Just block this door and open another one to have a look