FAQs

Q: How is the Cube shipped?

A1: Cube components are shipped in semi trailers, flat-bed trucks, or shipping containers, depending on the distance they are traveling, the number of units being shipped, and what methods are available to unload at the destination. When being shipped over land, components can be packed in a semi trailer and unloaded by hand, or palletized on a flat-bed truck and off-loaded by forklift, or truck-mounted crane. Purchasers can also pick up components themselves from our warehouse in Vancouver, BC, Canada using their own rental truck to save shipping costs. When shipping overseas, components will be packed into an ocean-going shipping container.

A2: NOMAD can arrange shipping to most locations worldwide with the cost being added to the purchase price. Note that tariffs, duties, fees, and taxes may be applicable when crossing borders; however, there are currently no fees when shipping between Canada, USA, and Mexico under NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement). For the purposes of estimating shipping costs, the Cube weighs approximately 15,000 lbs.

Q: Which permits do I need before installing the Cube?

A: The Cube’s design and components conform to both Canadian and US building codes for single-family residential structures. However, each country, city, province, state, and town can have their own code interpretations, specific bylaws, or zoning regulations relating to density, floor area, height, siting, maximum number of structures, etc. Therefore, acceptance by local authorities should be confirmed by the purchaser in advance. Upon submitting a deposit, NOMAD can provide most of the drawings for permit applications.

Q: Can NOMAD do the entire setup process?

A: Yes, even though you have the option to do the installation process yourself. We can only provide a guarantee if customers use our highly experienced team of contractors.

Q: Has the Cube’s structure been engineered for earthquake, wind, and snow loads?

A: The Cube’s design and components conform to both Canadian and US building codes for single-family residential structures. However, each country, city, province, state, and town can have their own code interpretations, specific bylaws, or zoning regulations relating to density, floor area, height, siting, maximum number of structures, etc. Therefore, acceptance by local authorities should be confirmed by the purchaser in advance. Upon submitting a deposit, NOMAD can provide most of the drawings for permit applications.

Q: Can NOMAD do the entire setup process?

A: The Cube’s design and components conform to both Canadian and US building codes for single-family residential structures. However, each country, city, province, state, and town can have their own code interpretations, specific bylaws, or zoning regulations relating to density, floor area, height, siting, maximum number of structures, etc. Therefore, acceptance by local authorities should be confirmed by the purchaser in advance. Upon submitting a deposit, NOMAD can provide most of the drawings for permit applications.

Q: Can NOMAD do the entire setup process?

A: Yes, even though you have the option to do the installation process yourself. We can only provide a guarantee if customers use our highly experienced team of contractors.

Q: Has the Cube’s structure been engineered for earthquake, wind, and snow loads?

A: Yes. Cube’s structure has been reviewed and endorsed by a registered structural engineer practicing in the province of British Columbia, Canada. However, soils, wind, earthquake, and snow loads differ in each location and the approving authorities in your area may ask for an independent review by a locally-certified engineer.

Q: Can the Cube be disassembled if required?

A: Yes. Each of Cube’s components can be unscrewed, stacked, moved, and then re-assembled.

Q: How much insulation does the Cube have?

A1: Cube’s floor, walls and ceilings contain a similar amount of insulation to a conventional home. R-Values (resistance to heat flow) for walls are R23 and R28 for floors and roof. Cube’s structure can be made airtight using the specified sealant and spray foam.

A2: Cube’s outer insulated panel system provides a continuous layer of insulation for superior energy-conserving performance. Both metal panels and structural steel frames are thermally broken to eliminate thermal bridging between exterior and interior.

A3: Additional insulation can be added to the interior cavity of Cube’s floor and roof structures for extreme climate conditions.

Q: How is the Cube’s air quality regulated?

A: The Cube is equipped with a manually-controlled, wall-mounted exhaust fan in the bathroom. Air can be exhausted from the main living area through a kitchen range hood, if installed. Opening-windows on the main and upper floor also provides passive ventilation and cooling through natural convection.

Q: How fire resistant is Cube’s structure?

A: Cube’s structure is made of insulated steel panels that exceeded industry standards when tested for flame-spread and smoke-development. 

Q: Is the Cube subject to termite infestations?

A: Cubes are constructed of steel and insulated metal panels that are termite resistant.

Q: How is plumbing installed?

A1: When installing the Cube on a concrete slab, drain and water lines should be installed prior to pouring concrete by a certified plumber. NOMAD can provide exact locations upon request. 

A2: When using a concrete pier foundation, drains, traps, and water lines should be installed below ground with connections aligned with Cube’s fixtures. Underground plumbing should be installed after concrete footings and piers are installed and before Cube’s floor structure is installed. Dimensioned drawings for exact fixture connections are available upon request. 

Q: How is electrical services installed?

A1: Connections to Cube’s electrical fixtures should be installed by a certified electrician.

A2: When Cubes are connected to the grid, the main service line should be installed underground by a certified electrician, prior to assembly. If electrical service is not available, lights, plugs, and fridge can be powered by one of the following three NOMAD solar add-ons: NOMAD Grid Tie, NOMAD back Up, or NOMAD Off Grid (pricing and specifications can be found on the Add-Ons page and clicking on the appropriate icon). 

A3: Upon completing the assembly of Cube’s structure, an electrical panel can be installed and wire can be distributed within interior steel frame. Fixtures, switching, and receptacle locations are located on Cube’s permit plans.

A4: Cube’s bathroom light is controlled by a wireless switch with a remote control (included), which can be hand-held, or installed on an interior wall of choice.