When managing a construction site, you will inevitably need additional space; but which is better for your needs? A conex box or portable structure?
Your construction site has a few requirements that keep you working effectively and efficiently. These items are almost always there at the site before work can commence. Things like tools, machinery, equipment, a temporary office, building materials, and the like are must-haves.
When getting everything ready, the on-site storage area and office need to be in place. For many construction sites, this means investing in a construction container or Conex box. For others, it means investing in a Clearspan temporary structure.
So, which is better? Is a Conex box best? Or will a portable structure best meet your construction needs?
What is a Conex Box?
A Conex box is, in general terms, a shipping container. These heavy steel containers are used as cargo containers in the shipping industry for a set period of time before they are no longer able to be used and are shoved aside. Though, they still have life left in them.
More and more people are turning to these containers to build tiny homes. And many in the construction industry have used them for years as temporary office spaces or storage spaces on the construction site.
What is a Clearspan Portable Structure?
A clearspan portable structure is freestanding storage or office space that offers ample – uninterrupted – room under its roof. Designed for durability and longevity, they are supported by beams of aluminum and have thick, fire-retardant coverings. These structures are more than just a tent. They are actually designed to withstand high winds and conform to all safety requirements of the International Building Code for temporary structures.
Benefits and Limitations of a Conex Box
Benefits
Believe it or not, the Conex box does offer you a few benefits – though it does have some limitations, too. Let’s take a look.
- Shipping containers are readily available. Because they are only authorized for cargo use for a certain amount of time, they still have life left in them afterward thanks to their heavy-duty steel construction. This means it is easy to find them when you need them.
- If you have the right truck – or the extra funds to invest in the right truck – then these containers can be easy to move. Otherwise, this could be seen as a limitation.
- These steel structures are secure and can easily protect your supplies and equipment.
Limitations
Shipping containers may seem like a suitable source for your construction site, but let’s take a look at some game-changing limitations:
- They can get hot – and cold. You cannot just set up a Conex box and start going – especially if you intend to use it for an on-site office. Their steel construction provides no insulation, so the inside can vary in extreme temperatures depending on your climate.
- There is no wiggle room in their design. Regardless of the size of your construction site, a Conex building will remain the same size — and could be an inconvenient solution. This is especially true when space is limited.
- A crane will be needed to move the box into the desired location – meaning you will need to have the space to make it happen and cover the cost.
- Not all shipping containers are in good condition. You may find that it is rusting, have structural weaknesses, dampness, and more.
Something else to consider is that you don’t know what was stored in those shipping containers. This means you may be subjecting yourself and others to risks if the container, for instance, was used to transport chemicals, insecticide, toxic materials, etc. Sandblasting is suggested before using. And, again, that is another expense.
Benefits and Limitations of a Clearspan Portable Structure
Benefits
Clearspan tents are considerably different than the Conex box. And they offer quite the list of benefits. Ready? Here we go:
- You can choose your size depending on the size of your construction project and the site itself.
- The area underneath the structure offers you a wide-open space that, again, is based on your storage needs. There are no poles or beams in the way.
- Natural lighting is also available through the roof, reducing the need for extra energy costs.
- The thick, vinyl fabric covering is designed to withstand high winds and inclement weather. It also blocks the sun’s rays keeping the tent cooler in the summertime.
- Installed, many of these structures can stay in place for years with very minimal maintenance.
- There are no guy lines or ropes to get in the way at your project’s site. They are installed to the ground using long steel stakes so that there is no hazard.
- Clearspan tents offer ample space for the storage of heavy machinery and equipment. Thanks to the ability to open the sides, entering and exiting the structure is a breeze.
- They don’t require a crane or special truck for delivery. Rather, the structure can be delivered to the site and erected quickly and easily. When your job is done, it can be dismantled with ease and moved to your next site, if you wish.
- With side walls and doors, clearspan structures are highly secure to protect your supplies and equipment.
Limitations
So, what are the limitations?
It is hard to call the limitations of a clearspan tent because they are so versatile and can be used in so many places. These temporary structures may cost a little more upfront, but the benefits truly do make it worthwhile. And, while they are able to withstand strong winds – even those that reach hurricane-force winds – and they are completely waterproof, they do have their limits.
And the Winner Is…
Is the Conex box or the clearspan tent best for your construction needs? Hands down, the clearspan temporary structure is the winner. With a long list of benefits, the answer is evident. They can provide you with protection for your crew, your supplies and equipment, or an office – even under the same roof.
- Easy to install
- Customized size and accessories
- Wide-open space
- No guy lines or ropes
- Long-lasting use
You have the choice between a Conex box and a clearspan tent, but there are so many benefits you can obtain when you use a clearspan portable structure – why would you choose anything else?
