An article from a happy customer I have been enamored with Shipping Container homes for many years and for many reasons.  First, I love the look. The industrial style is right up my alley…and the corrugated metal sides are a canvas for murals or other unique materials like cladding, vintage wood, or fabrics.  The fact that they use a waste product (one-way containers) and that they are so much stronger and safer than stick build homes is very appealing to me. Climate change requires us to build stronger, fire & flood resistant homes. Plus, the smaller footprint aligns with my goa ..read more

SICBS Founder and CEO, Rory Rubin, shares her story When it’s your own parent.... For years we had begged my parents to move closer to us in Chicago but it fell on deaf ears. They, like many elderly couples, wanted to live in their home town, where they felt comfortable and had friends – which happened to be in a different state. Eventually, we had to put my mother into a memory care unit because she had developed dementia. She passed away almost three years ago. My father moved into a one-bedroom apartment and was seemingly doing fine living independently. About two months ago, he fell and br ..read more

Shipping Container Homes & Snow Load If you live in snowy climates, the structural integrity of your home becomes paramount. When it comes to withstanding heavy snow loads, shipping container homes offer distinct advantages over traditional stick-built houses. Here’s why: Robust Construction: Shipping containers are built to endure extreme conditions, including heavy snow loads, thanks to their steel structure. At S.I. Container Builds we reinforce our snow loads to 180(PSF). In Lake Tahoe California, the requirement is 150(PSF). As you can see — we really beat the pack! Steel vs. Wood ..read more

In recent years, modular construction has emerged as a revolutionary method in architecture and construction. With its potential to accelerate project timelines, reduce costs, and enhance sustainability, modular buildings are gaining widespread recognition. However, just like traditional construction, modular projects must adhere to building codes to ensure safety, durability, and compliance with local regulations. In this blog post, we'll explore the key aspects of building codes for modular buildings and how stakeholders can navigate this intricate landscape. Understanding Modular Construct ..read more

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), historically called Granny Flats, have become a focal point in the housing crisis. Outdated zoning laws, which restricted multi-unit property uses, outlawed backyard homes for family and friends or short term rentals. Significant legislative changes taking effect throughout the country aim to streamline the ADU construction process and promote housing affordability.  Container homes have gained popularity as innovative and cost-effective housing solutions. Here are key insights into their appeal: Affordable Living: Container homes are here to stay i ..read more

In a continued effort to destigmatizing mental health conversations within the Black community, The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation and kate spade new york partnered again with S.I. Container Builds to bring their "She Care Wellness Pods" to a second HBCU campus in November 2023. As we wrote on July 1st 2023 when the first She Care Wellness Pods were launched at the HBCU Alabama State University campus, this groundbreaking program brings access to mental health facilities and resources on campus. Planning, building, designing, and delivering our sustainable, high-end shipping container pods t ..read more

Women have been steadily breaking down barriers in various industries, and construction is no exception. They are increasingly making significant contributions to the construction industry, particularly in the areas of sustainability and social responsibility. Women in construction often advocate for sustainable construction practices, including the use of eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient designs, and waste reduction. They are in front of promoting diversity and inclusion, leading to a more inclusive work environment. Many women in construction also participate in projects that contrib ..read more

Episode 82: Our founder, Rory Rubin talks with the Angela Gardner and Christi Powell of Women Talk Construction Podcast fame. Episode 82 recap: Angela and Christi speak with Rory Rubin, founder of S.I. Container Builds located in Buffalo Grove, IL. She started the aforementioned company as an inspiration to repurpose one-trip shipping containers because they were simply littering the North American shipping ports. Every structure is built to code, made to last, beautiful to live in, and double as a practice in conservation. As always, we love to hear success stories of women overcoming variou ..read more

Resolving the affordable housing crisis, the influx of immigrants, and homelessness in Chicago requires a myriad of changes to the status-quo. Building tent cities is more of a band-aid than a viable solution, however without immediate zoning and permitting reform, solutions like this become an only option — which is a waste of time, money, and respect for individuals in crisis. Housing is the link between one’s dignity and one’s ability to survive. S.I. Container Build homes provide sound, healthy, safe shelter which are affordable, portable, and are easily expandable. This requires a multif ..read more

HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR SHIPPING CONTAINER. So, how do you build equity? Of course, your property's value will more than likely appreciate. The national average is 3% per year—but you must maintain your home to get the biggest bang for your buck. Proper maintenance techniques can extend the life of a container home to 50+ years to a lifetime! Paint. High-quality, rust proof, DTM paint must be used when it's time to refresh the outside of your container. S.I. Container Build shipping container homes come with the highest quality paint. Exterior Siding. S.I. Container Builds offers multiple siding ..read more