I have some empty land in a warm climate earthquake and hurricane zone and I want to put an off grid cabin I was going to build a 40’ shipping container cabin, but now I’m thinking of building it with steel SIP panels, and having them shipped in 20’ container that I can just leave on site for an extra weatherproof storage shed. 



I have zero construction experience though. I want to diy and as cheap as possible while still being close enough to code (just in case the government comes knocking for not having a building or habitability permit).



Does anyone have experience with these panels? They look super easy. I have a few things that I’m unsure of though.



Slab on grade or some continuous foundation is the new earthquake code. With slab on grade, do I use SIP floor panels or just go with moisture barrier and plywood subfloor? With ‘connected post/pier’, would there be any real advantages over slab? The thought of continuously connecting the concrete piers at/below grade seems more complicated and not worth the hassle over just pouring a slab



For interior finishing, how do I put receptacles for electric outlets? The metal for hanging drywall only sticks out like 1” max and theres not enough room for outlets. On wood SIPs they just cut a hole a few inches into the panel, is it the same with steel SIPs?



Can I easily add a full window wall on most or all of one side, or does that require some sort of extra structure that I’d have to build?

>>2602977 (OP)

>I have zero construction experience

>as cheap as possible

>Working with steel

NGMI

They’re preformed panels that snap together, not welding. And it’s like $40 per sq foot of foundation, walls, roof, and insulation, exterior siding is optional and then whatever you want on the inside

>>2602977 (OP)

>>2602977 (OP)

sips seems like the cheapest way to diy if you don't have a lot of experience. 



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YG5POO4EwMQ [Embed]

>>2602977 (OP)

upon further research, just buy a kit

oops



https://www.mightysmallhomes.com/advantages/structural-insulated-panels/
