Differences Between Integrated Houses and Containers
There are differences between integrated houses and containers in terms of definition, structure, usage, construction methods, mobility, and environmental friendliness:
Definition and Structure: Integrated houses are modular integrated buildings composed of structural, floor, wall, and roof systems. Each system is divided into standardized unit modules, which are fully produced in factories and assembled on-site. They are also known as "movable or repeatedly disassemblable houses," achieving the transformation of houses from "real estate" to "movable property." Container houses are generally modified from standard containers used in the shipping industry or constructed in factories according to container dimensions through structural design. They have a top and bottom, with columns connecting to form a frame, and walls made of color-steel sandwich panels, creating an integrated structure with internal space divided mainly into rooms and corridors.
Usage: Integrated houses are primarily used for "temporary/flexible" purposes while also meeting some permanent needs. Key application scenarios include temporary offices and dormitories on construction sites, field operation housing, temporary exhibition and event spaces in cities, vacation homes in tourist areas, post-disaster relief housing, and even military housing. Container houses are mainly used for shops, restaurants, cafes, hotels, studios, markets, etc., as well as collective dormitories, warehouses, and offices on construction sites.
Construction Methods: For integrated houses, each system is divided into multiple standardized unit modules, which are produced in factories and assembled on-site. For container houses, if they are modified from shipping containers, the existing containers are directly renovated internally; if newly manufactured in factories, the top and bottom are first constructed, columns are used to connect and form a frame, and then walls are installed.
Mobility: Integrated houses can be disassembled and moved without damaging the land. Container houses can be easily moved from one place to another with strong mobility, and the entire container house can be directly installed at the destination through lifting or flatbed transportation.
Environmental Friendliness: Most components of integrated houses can be recycled for secondary use, greatly reducing construction waste. 90% of container houses are recyclable, making them low-carbon and environmentally friendly, in line with the trend of green building development.
