BizGuide: Container Technolog A-Z
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GreenCubes
A discussion of utilizing the strength and abilities of an ISBU and to promote the use of other "Green" and "Sustainable" technologies.
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• Eco Insulations and Thermal Coatings
There are only two type Eco Insulations we presently recommend:

1) Closed-Cell Spray Foam insulation due to the following properties:
    - Strength
    - Non polluting and non-toxic
    - Water proof (used in boats and boat marinas)
    - Mildew resistant
    - Compact
    - Longevity
    - Excellent bonding and sealant
    - Anti-condensation

2) Ceramic Coatings & Paint insulation due to the following properties:
    - Non polluting and non-toxic
    - Mildew resistant
    - Fire resistant
    - Compact
    - Longevity
    - Excellent bonding and sealant
    - Anti-condensation
    - Cost effective
    - Use flexibility
    - Sound absorbing


NOTE: We do not recommend "Ceramic Coatings" as a direct replacement for Spray foam insulation. It is a very 
efficient and a cost effective booster or additive. May be used beneficially on sheds, storage or in housing in 
Third World countries which do no commonly use insulations or thermal coatings.

If you are aware of other insulations that meet the same standards of the two insulation listed above and are 
cost effective with good documentation please forward the information to our staff for review.
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• Green Roof
The Green Roof and Green Wall concepts are well adapted to ISBU construction projects due to the basic
strength and stability of both the roof and side wall of the ISBU.

WARNING!  It is important to remember the strength limitations of the ISBU roof which can be seen in the
"Getting Approved Report".  The inner roof strength is 200# sq/ft and not the extreme strength of the corner
posts of the ISBU. 

The roof "As Is" will only support grass or flowers and the supporting layers and rubber membranes including
the light water weight. It will support that much of a Green Roof quite easily.

If the ISBU roof will be used as a patio or balcony as well, then you should consult a structural engineer to 
recommend the proper reinforcements and framing.  (These diagrams and drawings to be added soon)
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• Flooring & Accessories
The flooring of ISBU has become a much debated issue. Whether to replace the 1.25" marine hardwood floor
with other flooring depends on a few factors. If the ISBU will be used for storage, shed or workshop it is no
likely it would be necessary to replace the original floor. At most it may need to be sanded and sealed.

For housing construction there are other factors to consider:

- Is the ISBU new or "One Way"?
  These floors should pose no concern whatsoever.

- Are you absolutely certain it is safe and not contaminated?
  Shipping companies and depots are extremely careful and keep any "toxic" type containers very separated
  from the basic shipping containers. You must realize they also have liability concerns and these companies
  have many procedures in place to isolate containers that transport toxic or dangerous materials.

- Building Inspectors
  Whether the floor looks good or not, a local Building Inspector will usually request new floors. SIR inspections
  also request new floors or no floors for this reason.

Again, for storage units there is little concern or need to replace the flooring, but when using and ISBU for
housing, offices or cabins it is highly recommended to replace all flooring and clean and paint all surfaces well.

The actual cost of replacing the floor with standard plywood is not significant. 

This is an excellent time to add, not only the new flooring, but we recommend adding floors made or Teak
or Bamboo for longevity. 

While Teak is somewhat rare and expensive, Bamboo is fast becoming the "Eco Wood" of choice since it is 
not only strong and sustainable but grows fast and cost effective in plantations.
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• Water & Waste Recycling
Although any type housing can support water recycling and gray water treatment systems, the ISBU is well
adapted to any of these systems due to its structural strength and adaptability for equipment.

The strength and under frame of the ISBU make this a perfect time to explore "Gray Water" systems and 
recycling technology.
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• Green Houses & Atriums
The super strength of an ISBU lends itself well to its use as a Greenhouse or Atrium shell. Certainly there are
many low cost Atrium and Greenhouse frames on the market but the strength of an ISBU could also become
the ideal superstructure for this type architecture. 


For some other adaptable GreenCube ideas see the "Green Energy" section. 

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INDEX

• 
 • Front Cover
 • Introduction

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Understanding Shipping Containers & ISBU
 • In The Beginning
 • ISO Standards vs. Trade Standards
 • The Surplus Myth
 • Trends: 2009
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MisInformation
 • Old Concepts; Myths, & New Technology
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Understanding the Trade
 • Container Manufacturers
 • Shipping Companies
 • Fleet Owners
 • Container Lessors
 • Depots
 • Container Equipment Dealers
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ISBU Technologies
 • GreenCubes
 • Artistic Architecture & Structures
 • Homes, Offices & Additions
 • Workshops, Garages & Warehouses
 • Cabins & Emergency Housing
 • Storage Units
 • Mobile Equipment Housing
 • Permanent or Temporary
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Your Plans and Designs
 • The Biggest Mistakes
 • Getting Approved & Inspected
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Choosing Your Container
 • Grades & Qualities
 • New or Used
 • Container Dealers
 • Container Depots
 • Private Parties
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Finding A Professional
 • Architects
 • Engineers
 • Building Contractors
 • LEEDS Certified
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Green Cubes
 • Eco Insulation
 • Green Roofs
 • Flooring & Accessories
 • Water & Waste Recycling
 • Greenhouses & Atriums
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Green Energy
 • EnergyCubes
 • olar Heating
 • Solar Power
 • Wind Power
 • Bio Fuels
 • Geothermal
 • Lighting
 • Windows
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ISBU Preparation
 • Delivery & Moving
 • Repairing
 • Cleaning
 • Engineering Issues
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ISBU Building Construction
 • Building Permits
 • Cutting
 • Joining, Connecting & Stacking
 • Steps & Stairways
 • Engineering Issues
 • Foundations & Footings
 • Windows & Doors
 • Fire Codes & Wind Codes
 • Primer Coatings vs. Paints
 • Plumbing
 • Electrical
 • Interior Walls
 • Exterior Finishes & Cladding
 • Roofing Concepts
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ISBU Storage Units
 • City Permits
 • Site Preparation
 • Pads, Foundations & Footings
 • Windows & Doors
 • Primer Coatings vs. Paints
 • Exterior Finishes & Cladding
 • Roofing Concepts
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Basic Plans, Designs & Configurations
 • Cabins & Emergency units
 • Single-Unit Housing
 • Multi-Unit Housing
 • Garages
 • Classrooms
 • Offices & Warehouses
 • Barns & Storage
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Other Comments
 • Misc.