How to Prepare a Foundation for Container Houses, Shelters, and Pools
When planning to install a container house, equipment shelter, or container swimming pool, one of the most important – and often overlooked – steps is choosing and preparing the right foundation.
A proper foundation ensures structural stability, safety, and durability, and can extend the life of your container structure. Whether you're installing a unit for temporary use or building a permanent solution, the foundation type should match your site conditions, use duration, and local climate.
In this article, we’ll break down the different types of foundations and how to choose the best one for your project.
Why a Good Foundation Matters
Supports the container's weight and prevents sinking or shifting
Protects against moisture and corrosion from ground contact
Improves stability and wind resistance
Ensures long-term performance of insulation, doors, and systems
Helps meet local building codes or regulations (where applicable)
Types of Foundations for Container Structures
1. Concrete Slab Foundation
Best for: Permanent or long-term installations
Description: A full flat concrete base that supports the entire bottom surface of the container.
Pros: Strong, durable, moisture-resistant
Cons: Higher material and labor cost
Tip: Include proper drainage and insulation beneath the slab for pools and shelters.
2. Concrete Strip Foundation
Best for: Permanent homes, offices, and shelters
Description: Concrete strips under load-bearing container walls, like traditional housing.
Pros: Reduces concrete usage, supports heavier loads
Cons: Requires careful planning and alignment
Tip: Ideal for container houses with multiple modules.
3. Concrete Blocks / Piers
Best for: Temporary or semi-permanent setups
Description: Concrete blocks placed at container corners and midpoints.
Pros: Low-cost, fast setup, good ventilation under the container
Cons: May shift over time in poor soil or harsh climates
Tip: Use high-quality level blocks and secure the container properly.
4. Pile Foundation
Best for: Unstable or soft soil, wet or sloped terrain
Description: Steel or concrete piles driven deep into the ground for load distribution.
Pros: Excellent for extreme conditions
Cons: Higher cost and requires machinery
Tip: Often used in areas with high flood risk or remote locations.
️ How to Choose the Right Foundation
To find the most suitable solution, consider these factors:
✔️ Usage Duration
Is your container temporary (1–2 years), semi-permanent, or permanent?
Temporary: Blocks or piers
Permanent: Slab or strip foundation
✔️ Site Conditions
Evaluate the soil strength, slope, drainage, and accessibility.
✔️ Climate Considerations
Cold areas may need frost protection. Wet or flood-prone regions need elevation and water resistance.
✔️ Local Regulations
Check with local authorities for foundation and anchoring requirements.
✔️ Container Type
Whether you're installing a container pool, house, or shelter, the weight, insulation, and water systems will affect foundation design.
We Help You Choose and Build the Right Base
At MEGE Shelters, we manufacture high-quality container houses, pools, and shelters, and support our clients with technical advice and customized installation guidance.
Our experienced design team can recommend the best foundation plan based on your location, usage, and budget. We also offer installation support and international shipping.
Quick Foundation Checklist Before Installation
✅ Site surveyed and leveled
✅ Chosen foundation type confirmed
✅ Drainage plan in place
✅ Anchoring method selected (if required)
✅ Access for transport and crane (if needed)