Shipping Container Pools Are Becoming Popular

Over the years, there has been a broad spectrum of innovations in all industries. But did you know that shipping containers can now be converted into swimming pools? Paul Ratham of Modpools says that shipping containers can now be world-class pool vessels that offer exceptional functionality at a lower price point than traditional inground pools. Aside from transporting cargo across the whole world, builders are repurposing shipping containers to create swimming pools out of them that homeowners love.

Generally, shipping containers often go to waste after several years of use. So, Paul Ratham started utilizing these boxes in a completely different way a few years ago. Ratham began creating swimming pools out of used shipping containers that had traveled all over the United States. Not only that, but his novel approach towards pool construction began to take off and pique the interest of homeowners.

As a result, he was able to meet the increased demand and has created many pools during the global pandemic. Shipping container pools are becoming more popular because they are easy to install and portable, meaning in most cases you can easily transport these pools from one location to another. This appeals to homeowners who want a pool but may not be tied to their forever home yet. Additionally, shipping container pools can accommodate a wide range of water features.

Where did this idea come from? Ratham says, “Pools are undoubtedly excellent sources of entertainment and relaxation. When you have a pool, you can create a mini staycation in your backyard.” With this information in mind, Paul thought of converting shipping containers into viable swimming pools. He was already transforming shipping containers into spaces like homes and offices. However, he noticed that he could do even more with shipping containers by repurposing them as functional swimming environments.

The formation of Modpools

After several years of building and remodeling shipping containers into pools, Paul Ratham formed Modpools. That company is responsible for creating many of the shipping container pools being sold today.

Ratham initially invested in shipping containers that carried different products. He says, “Most containers that reach North America don’t go back. This is because North America does not have a lot of commodities to send to China. So, most shipping containers that reach North America end up going to waste. Converting these containers into something functional is, therefore, a good idea.”

Tips for creating quality shipping container pools

Today, Ratham also tries his best to purchase shipping containers that have been used only once. Newer containers are often cleaner and dent-free. He does not want people to think that his pool containers are used garbage cans. It can be hard to sell homeowners on the concept that pools can be made using old shipping containers. Even so, more people are now becoming familiar and open to shipping container pools as an alternative to traditional inground pools. So much so, that they are willing to overlook the aesthetics and focus on the functionality these pools offer instead. Ratham, therefore, says that it is much easier to sell shipping container pools at the moment simply because the demand for pools has been so high. With that being said, shipping containers are ideal for homeowners with a limited budget and yard space.

Pros of shipping container pools

• Shipping container pools do make outstanding lap pools
• They are often more affordable than other swimming pool types
• You might not require a gate if the container is above ground
• Installation can often be completed within a single day
• They are an elegant and stylish alternative to other types of pools

Cons of shipping container pools

• They can be just as expensive as an ordinary inground pool when fully customized
• The shipping container look is an acquired taste and may not be for everyone
• Shipping container pools may only offer one entry & exit point for swimmers
• Most shipping container pool systems are not designed for a saltwater system
• All shipping container pools are basically the same shape

Manufacturing shipping container pools

Creating shipping container pools are not as complicated as most people think. All you have to do is customize the container. Cut the 20 x8 feet or 40 x8 feet shipping container into your preferred pool size. Then shape it according to your desired layout. Modpools often conduct this process at their warehouse. Luckily, you can always expand the container through welding to create even larger sized pools. Therefore, the shipping container pool does not have to be constructed on your property.

Consequently, you won’t have to deal with the noise of pool construction. Instead, you can create an inground, aboveground, or partially aboveground pool using a shipping container. Once the pool is ready, manufacturers transport it to your site for installation. You can customize a shipping container pool to match your requirements. Additionally, you can add water features like hot tubs in the container pools to make your container pool more full featured.

Last year, the global pandemic forced a majority of homeowners to consider revamping their outdoor spaces in lieu of traveling. As a result, there was an increased demand for pool construction services. Shipping container pools are also in high demand for homeowners who want to save some coin. Consequently, manufacturers like Paul Ratham had to buy shipping containers in bulk to deal with this surge in demand.

The typical size Modpool is eight feet wide by twenty feet long and a little more than five feet deep. It also has a clear, acrylic window on one side, which is an appealing and cool design aspect you wouldn’t expect to find in a shipping container pool. Customers can choose to install another acrylic glass on the other side which many often opt to do.

Final thoughts

Although the increased demand for pool installation has been hectic for most contractors, Paul Ratham’s business has grown tremendously over the past year. He says that Modpools has been responsible for installing 800 pools in North America in the past year. This is because homeowners are remodeling their outdoor spaces to make a summer spent at home more enjoyable for their families.