Tiny House Shells: Ultimate Guide
Maybe you know a bit about tiny home shells, but are floundering under a mass of questions. We understand those frustrations. Ready to get some answers? Keep reading! Or simply look at the table of contents to answer your specific questions.
Contents
What are tiny house shells?
A tiny house shell is the finished exterior for a tiny house. This includes the wall, windows, doors, foundation, and complete exterior. Said another way, a tiny home shell allows you to custom-design the interior of your tiny house, giving you the satisfaction of being creative.
Structure
Of course, understanding the structure of a tiny house shell is one of the most important ways to understand tiny house shells, overall. For example, Esh’s Utility Buildings offers different structure features:
Square Footage
A typical tiny house shell ranges in size from 64 square feet to roughly 400 square feet.
Different Types of Tiny Home Shells
You can choose between a tiny house shell that is built on a foundation or a tiny house shell that is on a trailer. Another variation of a tiny house shell is the park model RV which is designed as a temporary home for traveling or other short-term situations.
Tiny House Shells vs. Shed Shells
It’s important to note that a tiny house shell is not a shed shell. There are major differences including the legal codes, core purposes, and structural differences.
Legal Codes
Legally, a shed shell is considered an accessory building, while a tiny house shell (once finished) is considered an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) or a form of housing in some locations. These laws vary across the country. Before you plan to buy a tiny house shell, check with your local municipality’s building and zoning regulations.
Core Purpose
A shed shell is designed to be used for storage and as a result, it doesn’t come with hook-up options for running water or plumbing.
Structural Differences
At Esh’s Utility Buildings, we design both tiny house shells and shed shells. However, there are a few key components in the make-up of our tiny house shells (that are not found in tiny house sheds). Each tiny home shell we build includes:
- 2×8 floor joists and rim boards
- 2×6 double headers at windows and doors
- 2×6 rafters
- Collar ties at every rafter
- Hurricane clips at every rafter
How can I use my tiny house shell?
A tiny house shell can be used for an office space or to fulfill various housing needs you may encounter. Sometimes in life we find ourselves with housing dilemas. Where can I host my aging parents? What about my teenage daughter who wants to move out? And where can we possibly fit those guests next week?
Office Space
If you already have a house and are outgrowing that space, a tiny house shell would be the perfect solution to an office space. You can place your tiny house shell directly on your property so that it’s only a short walk from your main home. Maybe your home is filled with laughter and chatter, which you love. Except when you’re writing that book. A tiny house shell will allow you to work on your computer in peace and quiet, with no distractions.
House For A Teenager
Teenagers love their independence. Yet in a lot of ways, they still need our direction and guidance. But with a tiny house shell, they will get a soft entry into independent living while still living in your backyard where you can monitor their daily activities.
Guest House
Houses come with a limited amount of room, which can become a problem when guests spend the night (or nights). A tiny house shell is a win/win for both you and your guests; everyone has privacy and plenty of room to live.
House For Elderly Relatives
As parents or other relatives age, we want to know all their needs are met. A common solution is to either move in with your parents or have them move in with you. A tiny house shell allows you to design a house on your property that is elderly friendly. If they have trouble with stairs, you can design your tiny house shell with a wheelchair ramp. Additionally, you can make the kitchen and bathroom very user-friendly with low cupboards and drawers.
What is a tiny house shell on wheels?
A tiny house shell on wheels is a tiny house shell put on a trailer. If it seems like we are down-playing your intelligence by that statement, we promise we aren’t. It’s just a pretty simple concept, really. With a tiny house shell on wheels, you will be able to drive (quite literally) into the dreams of a lifetime.
The Similarities: Tiny House Shell On Wheels And Model Park RVs
Both Are Movable
With the addition of wheels, you are free to move your tiny house or model park RV with you as desired.
Both Offer Adventure
Added to mobility, is the constant opportunity to seek adventure. Do you want to travel out west to see the Grand Canyon? Both options allow you to live in a certain region for a period of time.
The Differences: Tiny House Shell On Wheels And Model Park RVs
Cost
Overall, a tiny house shell on wheels is cheaper than a model park RV. Tiny house shells can roughly cost anywhere between $10,000-$55,000, while model park RVs range between $20,000-$200,000. The price all depends on the add-ons and size you choose. For example, a 12×20 tiny house shell will be more affordable than a 12×36 tiny house shell.
Housing Occupancy
Depending on your location, a tiny house shell on wheels can be considered an ADU (Accessible Dwelling Unit). On the other hand, model park RV’s are more designed as temporary housing situations like camping at a national park.
What are the permits for tiny house shells?
We understand your anxiety when it comes to receiving the correct permits for your tiny house shell. In short, permits for tiny house shells vary across the nation. Furthermore, regulations within a specific state vary across different cities, towns, and municipalities.
For more information on tiny house shell permits, take note of the following:
- Zoning Regulations
- Building Codes
- Wheels Versus Foundation
- Permitting Process
- Utility Connections
- Minimum Size Requirements
- Length of Occupancy
Zoning Regulations
It’s imperative to follow the zoning regulations within your section of the country. Some states or cities’ zoning regulations define tiny house shells as a ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) instead of a primary housing source. You should always check out your local zoning regulations, but especially if you plan to make your tiny house shell your primary residence.
Building Codes
We want your tiny house shell to be structurally secure and safe. And so does your city. For more information on the specific building codes for tiny house shells in your area, reach out to your county, city or state building officials. If you happen to live in Kentucky or Tennessee, we have compiled extensive information on tiny house building codes and permits in Kentucky and Tennessee.
Wheels Versus Foundation
If your tiny house shell is on wheels, it’s important you check your city’s codes around mobile homes and RVs. For example, some municipalities or cities have specific ramifications for how long you can stay in a tiny house on wheels.
Permitting Process
We’re sorry to break the news, but the permitting process can take longer than expected at times. When thinking about your overall budget for a tiny house shell, consider that permits range in price from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars.
Utility Connections
Electricity and plumbing hook-ups are usually a must. Before you plan how to add those essentials, make sure you know the requirements regarding utility connections in your exact location.
Minimum Size Requirements
Check your local requirements regarding the minimum size of your tiny house shell. Overall, you can remember that most tiny house homes are around 400 square feet or less.
Length Of Occupancy
If you are living in a tiny house shell on wheels, some areas have regulations regarding the length of your occupancy.
Esh’s Utility Buildings’ Tiny House Shells
At Esh’s Utility Buildings, we are proud to offer tiny house shells that adhere to the IRC’s regulations, making your purchase of our sheds stress-free.
Where are the best places to buy different tiny house shell styles?
For a park mobile RV, check out the Tumbleweed Tiny House Company; if you want an unfinished DIY tiny home shell experience, look up Maverick Tiny House company; and for a completed tiny home shell from a shed company, Esh’s Utility Buildings is the one for you!
Park Model RV: Tumbleweed Tiny House Company
The park model RV allows you to explore and then stay for a greater length of time than a traditional RV allows. Are you having a bit of decision fatigue? Tumbleweed Tiny House Company offers three styles – Elm, Farrallen, Aspen – for your park model RV.
DIY Tiny Home Shell: Maverick Tiny House Company
Do you want to have some personal experience with creating your own home? Maverick Tiny Homes offers a DIY tiny home shell kit. This means that they will build a fully-finished exterior in order for you to continue working towards your desired finished interior.
Shed Company’s Tiny Home Shell: Esh Utility Buildings
Made in Kentucky, Esh Utility Buildings offers four affordable tiny house shell designs: the ranch, the high barn, the modular, and the skillion. Whichever tiny house shell you chose, you can customize the exterior aesthetic by picking your own colors, windows, window boxes, vent style, structural changes, and more!
Now with the exterior designed, you can focus your energy on outfitting the inside. Best yet, you won’t have the headache of figuring out building codes. We’ve got that all figured out. Just sit back and start designing!
How can I build my own tiny house shell?
The process of building your own tiny house shell from scratch involves research, gaining correct permits, gathering materials, choosing either a foundation or trailer, and then going on to creating the exterior of your unfinished tiny house shell. Rest assured, we believe you got this!
- Research
- For most things in life, the more planning and research you invest into a project, the better the outcome. Take your time to invest into planning and ask professionals who have also built tiny houses.
- Get Your Permits
- Receiving permits can be a long process, but we have provided a skeleton of all the things you need to know in this blog.
- Chose Either A Foundation Or Trailer
- This decision is necessary because all future steps depend on it. If you’re looking for a mobile option, wheels are for you! If you need something more permanent, choose the foundation.
- Gather The Supplies
- It’s no secret that you’ll need a lot of supplies. The list is extensive, including wood, doors, insulation, and much more.
- Construct The Framing
- Make the frame for your unfinished tiny house shell and then add the subflooring which will hold up your final flooring.
- Build The Exterior
- Now build the walls, leaving room for doors and windows. Install the roof framing and move on to the doors and windows. At this point of the process, you will have to add the needed insulation to your tiny house shell.
Basic Summary
We recognize that that was simply a basic outline of how to construct a tiny house shell. Some of us are visual learners. This video gives a step-by-step guide through the ins and outs of building a tiny house shell.
How much does a tiny house shell cost?
We understand your concern with money, money, money. Tiny house shells are affordable, ranging in price from $8,000 to $40,000. Of course, how much you want to spend really is up to your personal preference, but choosing to buy a tiny house shell has huge cost benefits compared to other tiny house options.
Interior Finish
While tiny house shells are affordable, don’t forget that the interior still needs your golden touch. Keep room in your budget for sheet rock, flooring, paint, sinks, countertops, light fixtures and any other ideas that spring to mind. Want to know the good news? This part of your budget remains in your control.
Plumbing And Electric
If you want to convert your tiny house shell into some sort of home, you’ll need light and running water. Those are factors to consider when looking at the total cost of your tiny house shell.
To compare tiny house shell costs in comparison to other buildings, view our chart:
| Type of building | Features | Standard Size | Price Range |
| Shed | Store garden tools or other supplies; no hookup for living | 8×10 10×12 | $300-$6,000 |
| Model Park RV | Easily transportable; on wheels; accessible; electric and plumbing hookup | 400 sq ft or less | $20,000-$200,000 |
| TIny House Shell Kit | All materials to create the exterior of your tiny house shell, including (but not limited to) windows, roof, walls, instructions, ect | 400 sq ft or less | $5,000-$50,000 |
| Tiny House Shell | Fully finished exterior of a tiny house; can be built on a trailer or set on a foundation | 400 sq ft or less | $10,000-$55,000 |
Prices Vary Widely
The above chart is intended to give you a broad overview of the features, standard sizes, and approximate price ranges of tiny house shells in comparison to other tiny building options on the market. However, please note the following:
The Lower Prices
The lower tiny house shell cost for each building represents models that are smaller than the standard sizes. For example, a $10,000 tiny house shell may be around 240 spare feet (12×20) with limited amenities.
The Higher Prices
These tiny house shell costs reflect replicas that are larger than the standard and are the most elaborate, customized models on the market. Do you have fine tastes? No sweat. With some extra cash, you can always personalize your tiny house shell to create it tailored to your specific needs.
Consider Your Budget
The amazing part about tiny house shells is that you can rely on your budget to guide you as you choose a retailer to buy your unfinished tiny house shell. And when you complete the interior of your tiny house shell, you can also cut back on costs because the design is 100 percent in your care.
Esh’s Tiny House Shells
Here at Esh’s Utility Buildings, we offer four different designs for affordable tiny house shells. Each design – Ranch, High Barn, Modular, Skillion – allows you to customize the style, size, doors, windows, exterior, colors, interior and flooring. Best yet, our tiny house shells are built to the latest IRC and include a 10-year workmanship warranty.
For affordable tiny house shells from Esh’s Utility Buildings, follow this chart:
| Tiny House Shell | Exclusive Features | Price |
| Ranch | Custom designed porch; efficient; allows for easy customization | $ |
| High Barn | Two 4 foot wide overhead lofts for either storage or a bed; strong floor structure; customize as desired | $ |
| Skillion | Modern and minimalist design; slanted roof; will not interfere with the vibe of your property; allows for your customization | $ |
| Modular | Doublewide; extra windows; spacious for housing multiple people; add your own customized doors and more | $$$ |
Note: Prices are ranging from roughly least expensive ($) to most expensive ($$$).
What are the different tiny house shell sizes?
In a nutshell, there isn’t a “one-size-fits-all.” Tiny house shell sizes vary considerably from a 240 square feet (12×20) home shell to an extra-large 432 square feet (12×36) home shell.
12 x 20
This is in fact a tiny tiny house shell, giving you a total of 240 square feet: a perfect option for an office space where you can type in peace and tranquility.
12 x 24
A 12×24 tiny house shell delivers 288 square feet of space. Perhaps this would make an excellent housing arrangement for your teenage daughter or son.
12 x 28
Wanting a bit more room to stretch and store items? With a 12×28 unfinished tiny house shell (336 square feet), you will find just that, but the cost will still remain affordable.
12 x 32
A 12×32 unfinished tiny house shell brings your total amount of space to 384 square feet. Ultimately, this is around the standard size of a tiny house shell.
12 x 36
Now, maybe you are dreaming of a tiny house shell that doesn’t leave you feeling claustrophobic at all. Or perhaps you want to add a pet to your tiny house dwelling. At 432 square feet, this 12×36 tiny house shell will deliver a truly spacious area!
Tiny House Shells Are Larger Than Square Feet
I’m sure we are all familiar with square feet. Base times height equals the area of the square, right? Okay, I see you rolling your eyes. But stay with me. Tiny house shells allow you to add slanted roofs which make your livable space larger than square footage suggests! Put another way, slanted roofs in tiny house shells enable you to add a loft for storage or a cute resting spot.
Esh’s Utility Buildings offer different sizes for lofts: 4 foot wide (front or back OR front and back), 4 foot U (front/back/left OR front/back/right), or 8 foot wide loft (front or back). Let’s say you choose an 8 foot loft in the back of your tiny house shed. If you add this to your 10×12 tiny house shell, your loft square footage would be (10×8) 80 additional square feet.
Always Room To Customize
Don’t forget that you can always customize the details and choose a size not listed above. Tiny house shells are not only affordable, but they are an avenue leading to creativity and endless opportunity!
Why should I get a tiny house shell?
Tiny house shells simplify your life, save you money and so much more! Keep reading to understand more perks of tiny house shells.
Simplify your life
Have you ever felt that your life was just crammed with too many things everywhere? You look around your house and realize you are not valuing all the property that you have. With a tiny house shell, you can start afresh and purge your stuff to fit into a small space. In this way, all of your material belongings will have a specific purpose in your home. Tiny house shells allow you to cleanse your mind by limiting your options.
Save Money
Let’s face it. Housing is expensive. Finding a home that is affordable is time consuming and depending on the situation, almost impossible. You could always rent, but then you wouldn’t have anything to show for your money. Tiny home shells give you the opportunity to own a house without financial burden.
Protect the environment
A tiny house shell leaves a very small carbon footprint on our heavily-burdened earth. When you furnish your tiny house shell, you don’t have to worry about adding to the worries of the environment. Rest assured that you are doing your part.
Allow Creativity
Tiny house shells are a blank slate for you to experiment and design something unique. No need to follow anyone’s narrative or directions. Let your creativity and imagination generate a house that has your name written all over it. Do you want frog wallpaper in the bathroom? No worries, you can add that!
Gain Freedom
Because of the small amount of space within a tiny house shell, you have the freedom to do exactly what you want to do. Not only do you have creative freedom, but you will have financial freedom, as well.
Easily Transportable
Tiny house shells can be set up easily in most locations. In fact, you can get a tiny house shell on wheels which can follow you around the country.
Esh’s Utility Buildings
What We Offer
Located in both Kentucky and Tennessee, Esh’s Utility Buildings offer affordable tiny house shells in different styles: Ranch, High Barn, Modular, Custom-Built, and more! But within each style, there are dozens of different ways you can customize your tiny home shell to meet your individual desires, using our 3-D designer. Choose your own styles, colors, windows, flooring, and more! Most importantly, your tiny home shell will be compliant with the 2018 IRC codes. You can read up on tiny home regulations in KY in our article.
Thanks for coming along for this guide to tiny house shells! Three cheers to your tiny house shell dreams!
