Are quonset huts a great idea?

[alyannafr]

Quonset huts seem like the best bet for my upcoming project, mainly cause they're cheap and easy. I know they can be noisy and get condensation, but I've got a couple of tricks up my sleeve

I'm planning to build a wooden frame inside the metal hut to quiet things down, and I'll make sure there's enough space between the two for good airflow to stop condensation.

What do you guys think? Any advice?

 

[eDJ_]

Quonset huts have been around for some time now. The military has used them in some parts of the world for barracks /housing, work shops, warehouses etc. There are people living in them now in farming or off grid environments.

I've seen them used around airports for airplane storage. When I was in one the insulating was different than anything I had seen. It was a white vinyl sheet backed insulation that was held in place by a wire mesh. (chicken wire) On some of the old military installations I've seen there were windows along the sides that were presumably built by the same manufacturer. Openings cut out and the window adapter welded in place and opening window set in that housing.

This image is of a model of a Quonset like the military would use. Note the windows and roof line vents.

 

[eDJ_]

I watched this old Youtube video (47 minutes or so long) on the development of Quonset huts during WW2. Titled:

How Engineers Designed Quonset Huts to Survive Storms, Bombs, and Jungle Heat​

If anyone here is considering a Quonset Hut, or may not have considered one, this would be well worth watching. They can be a lasting quick build home and quite customizable.

How Engineers Designed Quonset Huts to Survive Storms, Bombs, and Jungle Heat

(there are quite a variety of ideas for the Quonset Huts the military innovated that would work for those wanting a Tiny House today...such as earth berming one for insulation. The galvanized finish on the steel was found to help it last for up to 50 years.

You can still buy a Quonset from these suppliers today.

SteelMaster:
Offers Quonset hut kits with a 50-year warranty and helps with customization for your specific needs.

Curvco Steel Buildings:
Specializes in arch-style steel buildings and offers custom sizes with strong, easy-to-assemble kits.

Powerbilt Steel Buildings:
Delivers and installs Quonset huts across the USA and offers kits ready for assembly.

Steel Commander Corp:
Sells Quonset hut kits online and provides options for different sizes and end-walls.