Purchasing a shipping container for use as storage, a workshop, or even a tiny home is a practical and increasingly popular solution. However, ensuring your container is set on a solid, level foundation is crucial for its longevity and usability. This guide outlines the steps necessary to properly prepare the ground for your shipping container.
1. Site Selection
Choosing the right location is the first step. Consider the following factors:
Drainage: Avoid areas prone to flooding. Ensure the site has good drainage to prevent water from pooling under the container.
Accessibility: Ensure that the site is accessible for the delivery truck and any future access needs.
Level Ground: Select a site that is as level as possible to minimise groundwork.
2. Site Clearing
Clear the site of any vegetation, rocks, and debris. A clean, clear site is essential for creating a stable foundation.
Rocks and Debris: Clear away any large rocks or debris that could interfere with levelling the ground.
Vegetation: Remove trees, bushes, and grass. Roots can grow and potentially disrupt the foundation.
3. Ground Levelling
Level the ground to ensure your shipping container sits evenly. This can be done manually or with machinery, depending on the size of the area and the extent of the levelling required.
Machinery: For larger or more uneven sites, consider renting a small excavator or hiring professionals.
Manual Levelling: For smaller sites, use shovels and rakes to even out the ground. A spirit level can help ensure accuracy.
4. Creating a Foundation
Several foundation options can be used depending on the intended use of the container, soil type, and budget. Here are some common options:
Concrete Slab
A concrete slab provides a strong, permanent foundation.
Pour Concrete: Mix and pour the concrete, ensuring it is level. Allow it to cure for at least a week.
Excavate: Dig out an area slightly larger than the container’s footprint to a depth of about 6-8 inches.
Formwork: Construct a wooden form to hold the concrete in place.
Rebar: Reinforce the slab with rebar for additional strength.
Concrete Piers
Concrete piers are a good option if you need to elevate the container.
Pour Concrete: Pour concrete into the holes, using forms if necessary, and insert rebar for strength. Allow curing.
Mark Pier Locations: Mark where each pier will go, typically at the corners and midpoints along the container’s length.
Excavate Holes: Dig holes for the piers to a depth below the frost line, typically 3-4 feet.
Gravel Pad
A gravel pad is a simpler and more cost-effective option, especially for temporary setups.
Gravel: Fill with gravel and compact it to create a stable, level surface.
Excavate: Dig out the topsoil to a depth of about 4-6 inches.
Landscape Fabric: Lay landscape fabric to prevent weed growth.
Railway Sleepers
Using railway sleepers is an effective and temporary foundation solution. This method provides stability and ease of installation, making it a popular choice for many container owners.
Check Stability: Double-check that the sleepers are stable and not prone to shifting. Compact the ground around them if necessary to ensure a firm placement.
Select Sleepers: Choose durable hardwood railway sleepers that are resistant to decay.
Placement: Place the sleepers directly on the levelled ground, arranging them at intervals that match the container’s corners and support points (typically every 5-7 feet along the length).
Alignment: Ensure the sleepers are level with one another. You may need to dig out small areas or add gravel beneath them to achieve a level surface.
5. Moisture and Insulation Considerations
To prevent moisture issues, consider these steps:
Insulation: If using the container for habitation, consider insulating the floor to prevent heat loss.
Vapor Barrier: Lay a plastic vapor barrier under the foundation to prevent moisture from rising.
Drainage: Install drainage around the site to direct water away from the container.
6. Placing the Container
Once the foundation is ready, placing the container can proceed.
Final Adjustments: Make any final adjustments to ensure the container is level and stable.
Delivery: Arrange for the container to be delivered and positioned on the foundation. Ensure the delivery truck has clear access.
Positioning: Use a crane or other lifting equipment to place the container precisely on the foundation.
7. Securing the Container
Secure the container to the foundation to prevent movement.
Wind Ties: In areas prone to high winds, consider additional wind ties for added stability.
Anchoring: Use metal brackets or anchors to secure the container to the concrete piers or slab.
Conclusion
Preparing the ground for a shipping container is a critical step in ensuring its stability and longevity. By carefully selecting the site, clearing and levelling the ground, and choosing the appropriate foundation, you can create a solid base for your container. Whether it’s for storage, a workshop, or a tiny home, a well-prepared foundation will ensure your shipping container serves its purpose effectively for years to come.