Shipping Container Roof System: Creating More Usable Space for Your Property

From attaching a roof to your container to exploring innovative roof solutions, we've got you covered. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or seeking professional advice, our comprehensive blog has everything you need. Don't miss out on maximizing your usable space for your container house——read on to discover the secrets of shipping container roofs!

How to Attach a Roof to a Shipping Container?

When contemplating how to attach a roof to a shipping container, the decision involves a balance of personal style preferences and cost considerations. For those opting to forego a roof initially, there's an immediate cost saving. However, in the long term, installing a roof with proper insulation could lead to energy bill savings. The process of adding a shed roof involves welding right-angled steel plates on both sides of the container, attaching wooden beams to these plates, and securing trusses onto the beams. Steel bars are then installed for additional support, completing the roof structure. Anchoring conex boxes with fabric covers can be achieved through either bolting or welding, each serving different purposes. Bolting is suitable for temporary solutions, while welding provides a more permanent and stable option, ensuring the container remains intact in adverse weather conditions.

Roof Solutions: Shipping Container Roof Kit

When considering a roof solution for shipping containers, exploring roofing kits can provide efficient and durable options. Several reputable providers offer diverse choices:

1. Shield Roof Solutions:   

• Made from American steel with a 20-year guarantee.   
• Fast and convenient installation, compatible with 20-foot and 40-foot containers.   
• Models include roof, carport, and podroof awnings.   
• Prices range from $5,500 to $13,000 based on strength and utility.

2. Western Shelter Systems:   

• Manufactured in the USA from American steel, offering a 20-year warranty.
• Standard kits are 20 feet long and rated 70 MPH, 25 PSF load, and exposure C.   
• Models include Gable 20 and Gable 40, with options to double usable area.   
• Prices range from $16,571.43 to $55,790.35, subject to freight and steel costs.

3. Storage and Canopy:   

• Features a galvanized steel structure and ultra-resistant PVC fabric canopy.   
• Can be installed with any support structure, not limited to cargo containers.   
• Sizes vary, and costs range from $1,500 to $27,000.

4. Curvco Steel Structures:   

• 100% American-made roofing kits ranging from 20' to 80' in width.   
• Affordable with a 40-year warranty and low site prep costs.   
• Customization options for commercial and industrial applications.

5. SteelMaster Building Systems:   

• Uses 22 gauge industrial-strength, commercial-grade steel panels.   
• Minimal maintenance costs compared to fabric covers or traditional roofing. 
• Highly customizable for various applications, offering budget-friendly alternatives.

Container Home Roof Design: Types of Shipping Container House Roof

When it comes to container home roof design, there are several types of shipping container house roofs to consider:

1. Shed Style Roof:    

• Features a sloped design, offering simplicity and cost-effectiveness.   
• Installation involves welding right-angled steel plates, attaching wooden beams and trusses, and adding purlins for structural support.   
• Roof covering options include shingles, galvanized metal sheets, or coated steel sheets.   
• Ventilation is crucial, achieved through overhanging trusses, fascia, soffit board, and gable end slots to prevent heat traps and condensation.

2. Gable Style Roof:   

• Resembles a traditional home roof with a distinctive triangle shape.     
• Similar construction process to the shed style roof, involving welding steel plates, attaching beams and trusses, and adding purlins.   
• Offers excellent water drainage, reducing the likelihood of leaks and extending the roof's lifespan.   
• Provides more ceiling space and follows similar ventilation principles as the shed style.

3. Flat Roof:   

• The shipping container comes with a flat roof, which may be suitable for some preferences.   
• While cost-effective, it leaves the container susceptible to water pooling.   
• If opting not to roof the container, a safety barrier is recommended, consisting of a tarpaulin sheet and rolls of asphalt for defense against dampness.

How to Build a Roof Between Two Shipping Containers?

When considering how to build a roof between two shipping containers, the process is surprisingly straightforward, requiring no advanced knowledge. The provided instructions make it easy to construct with basic tools. The versatility of a shipping container roof garage allows installation on the ground or atop existing structures. The flexibility extends to anchoring options, whether to ecology blocks, storage canopy, or shipping containers. The distance between the containers depends on their size (20 or 40 feet), with two containers needed to create a storage container garage. Anchoring methods involve either bolting for temporary setups or welding for a more permanent and stable solution. Anchoring to the ground is crucial, especially in regions with strong winds, as it prevents movement during storms, ensuring the container and roof remain intact even in severe weather conditions.

How do Shipping Containers Roofs Drain?

Given that shipping container shelters face extreme weather conditions, having effective roof drainage systems is paramount. These systems help protect the structure from water seepage and leakage caused by rain, snow, hail, and heat. Installing roof drains early is critical for safety, security, and maintaining the value and functionality of these shelters. Options for roof drains include pipes with a valve or a hose, and both self-installation and professional services are viable, with the latter recommended after consulting an expert for the most suitable drainage system. While small gaps in the containers aid in draining water, it's crucial to maintain them properly. Similar to home gutters, these gaps can accumulate leaves and debris over time, potentially causing water buildup, rust formation, and leaks that pose risks to the container's contents. Regular maintenance, including clearing debris, is essential to prevent such issues. 

Conclusion

In summary, deciding how to attach a roof to a shipping container involves a balance of style and cost considerations. The shed roof option, involving welding and support structures, offers a practical solution. Container home roofs come in shed, gable, and flat styles, each with unique benefits. Building a roof between two containers is accessible and flexible, with anchoring options for various surfaces. Effective roof drainage is crucial for shelter durability, and regular maintenance is key to preventing issues. If you want to learn more about container house, come to Yimuhouse and consulate our experts!