Creative Shipping Container Storage Solutions: Designing a Better Backyard Shed
A shipping container can make a durable backyard shed, but with the right exterior upgrades, it can also look much more like a traditional building.
In this project, Channing shows how Container Modification World Wood Truss Brackets can be used to build a low-slope wood-framed roof over a shipping container. This type of project is also a great way for first-time builders to learn the basics of modifying containers before taking on something larger like a full container home.
Building a Low-Slope Roof
Container Modification World Wood Truss Brackets provide a connection point for attaching wood rafters to the top of a shipping container without welding.
For these specialty 9-foot containers, the corrugations were different on each side, so the brackets required some field modification.
The rafters were cut to create a single-slope roof that would shed water away from the container.
Cross blocking was then installed between the rafters to keep everything straight and prevent the wood from twisting or bowing.
Sheathing and Roofing the Container
Once the framing was complete, 3/4-inch treated plywood was installed over the rafters to create a solid roof deck.
The seams were covered with flashing tape before applying an asphalt roll roofing membrane.
This provides a replaceable roof surface and protects the original shipping container roof underneath.
For residential applications, metal roofing could also be a good option, especially on a low-slope roof where shedding snow, ice, and water is important.
Finishing the Soffits and Fascia
White re-line wall panels were used as soffit material underneath the roof overhang.
This creates a clean finished appearance and helps make the container look more like a traditional shed.
Ventilation can also be added through the soffit area to allow heat trapped underneath the dark roof to escape.
An engineered wood fascia board was used around the perimeter instead of thin aluminum fascia, which can be more difficult to install cleanly without dents or waves.
Creating Better Interior Storage
The interior of a container shed can be customized using Container Modification World’s Modular Strut Brackets.
Shelf Brackets, Pipe Racks and other accessories can be mounted to the strut channel to organize tools, outdoor equipment and supplies.
For a lake property, this type of setup could be used for fishing rods, life jackets, kayaks, paddleboards and other gear.
Ventilation is especially important when storing wet equipment because airflow helps moisture escape instead of remaining trapped inside the steel container.
Why Wood Truss Brackets Help DIY Builders
The Wood Truss Brackets are manufactured from heavy-gauge galvanized steel and are designed specifically for shipping container construction.
Instead of fabricating and welding custom roof connections, the brackets provide a starting point for conventional wood framing.
Once the brackets and rafters are installed, the rest of the project begins to feel much more like traditional construction.
Turning a Shipping Container Into a Backyard Shed
Adding a framed roof, soffits, fascia and proper interior storage can completely change the look and functionality of a shipping container.
Instead of looking like a sea can sitting in the backyard, the finished structure can resemble a conventional garden shed while still maintaining the security and durability of the original container.
Container Modification World Wood Truss Brackets, and the Strut Framing System provide a flexible starting point for backyard sheds, lake storage buildings and other DIY shipping container projects.