Mobile homes: can it be implemented in Pakistan?

[Al Bhatti]

yeah, lets discuss cost, are they even affordable?

8 How much does a SMART Module cost?

The cost varies according to the type of product and the specificatons required. The initial cost out lay does not reflect the true savings of SMART constructs on. When attributes such as

saving on foundations
speed of construction
faster ROI
low maintenance
salvage value, are factored, there is no better construction solution available in today’s world.

WHY USE CONTAINERS?
For starters, they are inexpensive. Their ready-to-go nature allows architects to extend from its four walls rather than have to build ground up. An empty container can range from $2,800 to $4,800 depending on size, which rounds off to a relatively low-cost option for custom architecture. Along with its affordable price tag, it is versatile. The containers have a sturdy, weather-resistant body which means it can be used for everything from pop-up restaurants to new-generation disaster relief housing.

ADAPTING GREEN DESIGN
Its versatility allows the containers to be used as low-impact building blocks. They serve to accommodate energy-efficient spaces, where high-quality insulation installations and open-air ventilation can lower overall energy usage to par with traditional homes. Their flat surfaces mean that solar paneling can easily be installed atop of these containers, a popular and affordable option for home owners who have saved thousands in building materials.

 

[ejaz007]

These are expensive houses. Ordinary people might not be able to afford them. Plus during summer these need constant cooling which in Pakistan is not possible due to load shedding plus high cost of electricity.

 

[Dubious]

many factors.

Government officials, politicians, decision makers can study it and plan accordingly it is their job they get paid big amounts and get many other benefits for doing it not me

Good idea...

Lets move all the parliamentarians into these..

I mean why should we pay for their luxuries they should live simple lives if they can do that no one will be "ashamed" to live in such things....All this status BS would dissolve...and I am not even joking....

I am all for giving away free containers to whoever comes in office

 

[Al Bhatti]

These are expensive houses. Ordinary people might not be able to afford them. Plus during summer these need constant cooling which in Pakistan is not possible due to load shedding plus high cost of electricity.

Yes, but I am not asking for an exact copy paste of the idea. There are high cost versions and low cost versions as per requirements and budget.

A simple unit with all the basic needs will be a heaven for a homeless person as it will give him all the privacy and comfort of a roof above him.

Or let us say numerous such small cities are made for emergencies for example when floods hit or earthquakes happen the people affected who have lost homes can be shifted there temporarily, even IDP’s can use them.

Or what if a small container city is built and, at least 25-50% of electricity requirements for that city can be generated through solar energy with solar panels at the roof tops or by wind energy as per the local weather conditions.

Or let us say what if each container unit (house) will gets 25-50% of it’s electricity requirement from solar or wind energy.

Please read below

8 How much does a SMART Module cost?

The cost varies according to the type of product and the specificatons required. The initial cost out lay does not reflect the true savings of SMART constructs on. When attributes such as


saving on foundations
speed of construction
faster ROI
low maintenance
salvage value, are factored, there is no better construction solution available in today’s world.

WHY USE CONTAINERS?

For starters, they are inexpensive. Their ready-to-go nature allows architects to extend from its four walls rather than have to build ground up. An empty container can range from $2,800 to $4,800 depending on size, which rounds off to a relatively low-cost option for custom architecture. Along with its affordable price tag, it is versatile. The containers have a sturdy, weather-resistant body which means it can be used for everything from pop-up restaurants to new-generation disaster relief housing.


ADAPTING GREEN DESIGN

Its versatility allows the containers to be used as low-impact building blocks. They serve to accommodate energy-efficient spaces, where high-quality insulation installations and open-air ventilation can lower overall energy usage to par with traditional homes. Their flat surfaces mean that solar paneling can easily be installed atop of these containers, a popular and affordable option for home owners who have saved thousands in building materials.

----------------------------

Good idea...

Lets move all the parliamentarians into these..

I mean why should we pay for their luxuries they should live simple lives if they can do that no one will be "ashamed" to live in such things....All this status BS would dissolve...and I am not even joking....

I am all for giving away free containers to whoever comes in office

parliamentarians are already using containers, they are very intelligent (to block and seal roads)

 

[Dubious]

parliamentarians are already using containers, they are very intelligent (to block and seal roads)

Yea lets throw them in it to live and sleep...IK and Qadri are already starting the trend

 

[Al Bhatti]

Yea lets throw them in it to live and sleep...IK and Qadri are already starting the trend

This is not something new but when @Leader posted the picture of IK in that container (see the first post) I immediately remembered this and hence started a thread.

 

[Dubious]

hmmm mobile homes we already have ))))))))))))))))))))) nomads carry these with them depending on different seasons

@Al Bhatti honestly speaking for Pakistani environment this is the best except of course during floods...

FAQ

1 Shipping containers are hot ovens and not fit for human habitation.
Any non-insulated structure can become hot and unsuitable for human habitation in the summer months. A shipping container is as responsive to insulation as any other structure or material. All SMART modules are insulated with Rockwool or PU sandwich panels resulting in a more efficient insulated environment than a standard brick and mortar construction.

2 Shipping containers should not be used for housing because they quickly become old and rusty housing.

Shipping containers are constructed with Corten steel and then coated with epoxy paint, thereby making it near impossible for them to corrode. Any scratched, dented and untreated metal will oxidize and in time corrode. In the rare case this happens, it can be repaired easily. A shipping container home constructed according to building codes will be the most maintenance free structure you could have.


3 Shipping containers cannot meet conventional housing standards or building codes and therefore should not be considered for use in construction.

As proven by the actual tests and certifications a shipping container, when used far exceeds any international building standards.
4 Can the product be recycled after its first use? If so how?

Yes. The converted container’s life does not end after use with its current conversion. After its usage, it can be re-modified and refurbished for another type of use or relocated to another location. As the very end of its use, the steel shell can be sold as scrap and recycled for further use in the industry.
5 Is the product designed for dis-assembly?

Yes. It can be dis-assembled, reconverted and transported to any other location.
6 What is the period Warranty or Guarantee?

The structure is under warranty for 20 years. However, with minimal maintenance, the shell can last over 50 years.
7 Does the SMART Modules meet International Building Codes?

Yes. SMART Modules meet and exceed all IBC and UBC codes as a base structural unit. Please refer to the Comparison section for more information.
8 How much does a SMART Module cost?

The cost varies according to the type of product and the specificatons required. The initial cost out lay does not reflect the true savings of SMART constructs on. When attributes such as

• saving on foundations
• speed of construction
• faster ROI
• low maintenance
• salvage value, are factored, there is no better construction solution available in today’s world.

9 How does SMART Modules compare with Porta-cabins?

The benefits of SMART modules far out weigh that of Porta-cabins (see Benefits section for full list of benefits). The main differences are;

• SMART modules are made of steel as opposed to a wood based structure in porta-cabins
• SMART Modules are made to last over 50 years. Portacabins on the other hand, wear away easily in our regional weather conditions
• Porta-cabins are prone to damage during transportation and due to the width of the cabins, transportation on local roads may require special permissions or may face restrictions.
• Porta-cabins are cheaper than SMART modules however, there is significant recurring maintenance cost associated with the employment of Porta-cabins.
• Porta-cabins are prone to Earthquakes, Fire, Termite, mould and other damaging factors that may severely affect its inhabitants.
• The salvage value when compared to SMART modules are virtually zero.
• Porta-cabins cannot be stacked without proper support frames. This is an additional cost and restricted to 2 to 3 high stacking.
• Porta-cabins are not a Eco-friendly solution.

10 Can you supply off-shore certified converted containers?

Yes, we can supply offshore certified converted containers in accordance with DNV 2.7-1 standards. Note that the procedure requires drawing approvals at the initial stage and class society supervision for the manufacturing process before the units can be certified.
11 Can you undertake installation work including external MEP at site?

We specialise in container conversion and hold an industrial licence to undertake this business. As we are not authorized as civil or MEP contractors, all external works need to be outsourced. The same can be undertaken by a sub-contractor, subject to approved drawings and the requisite statutory approvals from the authorities (which falls under the purview of the client). The services of an approved consultant shall be required for the same. For installation, depending on the location, Smart Box can undertake with its partners. Smart Box can depute experienced supervisors to site to coordinate with local labour to install the SMART modules.
12 Can you take all requisite approvals from Government authorities?

For all Government approvals, an approved consultant is required and should be appointed by the client. Smart Box will provide all required drawings, technical data and information to facilitate the process. For additional information Smart Box can facilitate to appoint reputed consultants on behalf of the client. e.g. structural analysis and certification, a structural consultant must be appointed.
13 Can you provide plumbing specification in accordance with IPC 2009?

Yes. In addition, we can also provide special requirements such as DWV (drain/waste/vent) systems. Plumbing systems can be provided to meet ASTM standards.
14 What are the electrical earth provisions in a container?

An earth boss is provided which is connected to the earth line of the mains in the distribution box. In addition, earth leakage circuit breakers with 30mA or 60mA tripping capacity is provided as a standard.
15 What is the prevention against electrical shock in a container?

The prevention against electrical shock in a container has been mentioned above. For humans, a threshold of 30mA current is incorporated in the ELCB which shall trip in case of an earth fault, which means that if someone is subject to a live wire, the circuit shall trip within milliseconds. Every container body is earthed to the system earth line to prevent the body from becoming live due to any fault.
16 What is the sound insulation in a converted unit?

The sound insulation in a container depends on the type of insulation provided, which can be either PU sandwich panel, rockwool sandwich panel, laminated MDF with rockwool insulation, gypsum board with rockwool insulation, calcium silicate board with rockwool insulation, HPL sheet with rockwool insulation, magnesium oxide board with rockwool insulation, plywood with rockwool insulation etc. Sound attenuation depends on the design and type of unit being converted.
17 Can you provide 3m wide containers?

For a 3m wide container, Smart Box will have to custom fabricate the same by joining an extension to the side of a container. However, the finished unit will no longer have valid CSC certification and hence, not be seaworthy. All custom fabricated units are suited for land installations.
18 What is the maximum height inside a converted container?

For a 40ft high cube container, the maximum internal height is 2.4m with insulation. Without insulation, on container bare ceiling, 2.84m (for 40’ high cube containers) and 2.39m (in 20’ and 40’ standard containers).
19 Do 40’ containers have fork lift pockets?

No. Standard forklifts are not designed to lift 40ft containers due to the load and balance.
20 What type of Electrical cabling do you use?

Normally we use BS/IEC standard size PVC sheathed cables that vary from 1.5mm to 10mm, depending on the current load. For NEC standards, we use THHN cables which are UL listed. The cabling colour coding is in accordance with the standards. We can cater to any international electric standard if required, e.g. NEC standard (USA).
21 What type of plumbing materials do you use?

For black water and grey water lines, PVC schedule-40 pipes in accordance with IPC 2009 and for fresh water, PPR pipes.
22 What are the certifications provided with a converted container?

A CSC certificate is issued by a qualified IICL surveyor for seaworthiness. If a load test and MPI is required, then a 3rd party certificate is issued from a certified body. DNV witness test for load test as well as MPI test can be provided as per request.

Smartbox

This seems to have answered all the questions....

These are expensive houses. Ordinary people might not be able to afford them. Plus during summer these need constant cooling which in Pakistan is not possible due to load shedding plus high cost of electricity.

Read the list of things @Al Bhatti got from the website (post 8)

 

[Dubious]

@Al Bhatti I guess it would be feasible to rebuild shops and schools in Northern Areas (not much fear of heating up too much no matter how much insulation you use the thing is still made of metal naa...) with these...but the problem is need of even ground...until and unless these can be made locally, modifying it and then getting it on order might be costly....

However, it is an excellent Idea...though I still doubt about living in it for long terms...as it is still metal and whatever you paint it with...rust is still dangerous...though 20 yrs might not be too bad...something like temporary homes for refugee and natural disaster victims...

 

[Al Bhatti]

These are expensive houses. Ordinary people might not be able to afford them. Plus during summer these need constant cooling which in Pakistan is not possible due to load shedding plus high cost of electricity.

@Al Bhatti honestly speaking for Pakistani environment this is the best except of course during floods...


This seems to have answered all the questions....


Read the list of things @Al Bhatti got from the website (post 8)

Japan

Total Area 377,944 km2 (62nd) / 145,925 sq mi
- Water (%) 0.8

Population
- 2012 estimate 126,659,683[5] (10th)
- 2010 census 128,056,026[6]
- Density 337.1/km2 (36th) / 873.1/sq mi


Pakistan

Total Area 796,095 km2 (36th) / 307,374 sq mi
- Water (%) 3.1
Population
- 2014 estimate 196,174,380 [8] (6th)
- Density 234.4/km2 (55th) / 607.4/sq mi

Japan is less than half the size of Pakistan and population is only around 70 million or 7 crore less than Pakistan

Watch this video which explains some things

Specially from 18.00 onwards where the host is with an english man who lives in a mobile house in a location where al lthe houses are same like his. He pays land rent to government around 38 GBP per month. He owns the house (mobile structure can be portacabin or container unit/s) and the land is rented form the government.

In Pakistan large un-used areas of lands can be maybe used like this. Government gets revenues through land rents and people get a cheaper option for housing.

@Al Bhatti I guess it would be feasible to rebuild shops and schools in Northern Areas (not much fear of heating up too much no matter how much insulation you use the thing is still made of metal naa...) with these...but the problem is need of even ground...until and unless these can be made locally, modifying it and then getting it on order might be costly....

However, it is an excellent Idea...though I still doubt about living in it for long terms...as it is still metal and whatever you paint it with...rust is still dangerous...though 20 yrs might not be too bad...something like temporary homes for refugee and natural disaster victims...

2 Shipping containers should not be used for housing because they quickly become old and rusty housing.

Shipping containers are constructed with Corten steel and then coated with epoxy paint, thereby making it near impossible for them to corrode. Any scratched, dented and untreated metal will oxidize and in time corrode. In the rare case this happens, it can be repaired easily. A shipping container home constructed according to building codes will be the most maintenance free structure you could have.

@Akheilos

1 Shipping containers are hot ovens and not fit for human habitation.

Any non-insulated structure can become hot and unsuitable for human habitation in the summer months. A shipping container is as responsive to insulation as any other structure or material. All SMART modules are insulated with Rockwool or PU sandwich panels resulting in a more efficient insulated environment than a standard brick and mortar construction.

 

[Dubious]

@Al Bhatti there are plenty of temporary homes or cheap homes....if only govt wasnt unpar and jahil they would have done some research!

Monolithic done: maybe running the fans that long may be costly in Pakistan

Shipping container

plastic bottles:

 

[Dubious]

House of straw?

Reminds me of that tale of the 3 little piglets and the wolf...

+

 

[fatman17]

i doubt it - it gets very hot in this country. there is acute shortage of electricity to run the air-con etc.

 

[Al Bhatti]

i doubt it - it gets very hot in this country. there is acute shortage of electricity to run the air-con etc.

Or what if a small container city is built and, at least 25-50% of electricity requirements for that city can be generated through solar energy with solar panels at the roof tops or by wind energy as per the local weather conditions.

Or let us say what if each container unit (house) will gets 25-50% of it’s electricity requirement from solar or wind energy.

Please read below

ADAPTING GREEN DESIGN

Its versatility allows the containers to be used as low-impact building blocks. They serve to accommodate energy-efficient spaces, where high-quality insulation installations and open-air ventilation can lower overall energy usage to par with traditional homes. Their flat surfaces mean that solar paneling can easily be installed atop of these containers, a popular and affordable option for home owners who have saved thousands in building materials.

1 Shipping containers are hot ovens and not fit for human habitation.

Any non-insulated structure can become hot and unsuitable for human habitation in the summer months. A shipping container is as responsive to insulation as any other structure or material. All SMART modules are insulated with Rockwool or PU sandwich panels resulting in a more efficient insulated environment than a standard brick and mortar construction.

---------------------------

House of straw?

Reminds me of that tale of the 3 little piglets and the wolf...

+

You are going back in time and i am talking about something "modern, solid, feasible, comfortable"

@Al Bhatti there are plenty of temporary homes or cheap homes....if only govt wasnt unpar and jahil they would have done some research!

They do research on how to get into the parliament again and again, and if anything happens to their constitution right to do that "research" on getting in the parliament they cry for the constitution.

 

[Dubious]

You are going back in time and i am talking about something "modern"

None of these projects are from the 1st century AD...

Most of the Western world has realized global warming as it is effecting their food crops too...so yes they are going back in time and utilizing as much recyclable stuff as they can...Mind you to date haybale is considered a good insulator from cold....and is frequently used in the roof tops of modern buildings...

They do research on how to get into the parliament again and again, and if anything happens to their constitution nright to do that "research" on getting in the parliament they cry for the constitution.

I think most of their research is aiming at juicing Pakistan as much as possible

 

[Al Bhatti]

I think most of their research is aiming at juicing Pakistan as much as possible

The sugar cane is the common man.

Governments come and does this to the common man every year and drinks the sweet and healthy juice. And when the next government comes they do the same knowing there is no juice left but still want to get the last sweet and healthy drop out of it.

The nation is 67 years old, imagine the common man - sorry the sugarcane - going through the process at least 30 times.