I would like all opinions on purchasing a container to house a layout! I know many modifications need to be done, door, ac, electricity, etc. Metal buildings with pad, electric, doors, etc seem to be in the 15+ price range. What are your opinions about the pros and cons of a 40ft+ or more container? dave
There is a whole community here that is many comprised of construction people and truck drivers. They bought their property because they had enough room to park their big rigs and have storage containers. Some of them have there for over 20 years and then suddenly the county is trying to pass an ordinance that prohibits these kinds of things. I would definitely check the local rules. I have one at work and things tend to get lost towards the back since it’s so narrow, but I wouldn’t mind have one if I could.
If ya wanted to be really cool about it,put a cab/nose on it made of plywood,and paint it up like an F45 or a U30CG!! I've been kicking around building a shed in my yard like that as a playroom,maybe 8X25...
One of the main reasons I didn't use an ex-shipping container was because the sea going containers are sold off because they almost always have microscopic rust holes that in a couple of years develop into a serious roof leak. However if you can find two domestic (53') and have someone remove two sidewalls and weld them together, you'd have a massive 16X53 foot layout space!
I am using a gutted travel trailer. Most places WILL allow you to park your RV/travel trailer on your property...and may not let those containers to be set on your property. Plus...the trailer is easier to move around...if I have to..JMO .
You can get an insulated one, it would be easier to heat and cool. The "best" prices on these are on the 20 and 40 foot International containers, though you can find up to 53' containers, if you search. They can be up to 102" wide, which is more than enough to have a loop on each side of the rear doors for your layout, especially if you stagger the loops slightly, that would be nearly 160' of single level track for a 40' container. I've seen 20' containers go for as little as $600 at the terminal, and 40' one go for $1200. Just make sure it's "dry" (no leaks).
Another option would be to find an "office space" trailer. Some of them come in larger sizes than containers, and they are more likely ready for inner construction. If you looat rental places, they may have some that are for sale. And they're more attractive. Still more portable, too. My two cents.... David
I have always wanted an old caboose to use to hold railroad memorbilia, and a cool layout. But, more practicle would be like mentioned above, buying an old travel trailer, or mobile office trailer and building it out for a layout. Can be easily moved if need be, and already has doors and windows ready for build out.
