If you’re considering building modular, you probably have a few questions. What are the benefits of modular homes? Are modular homes safe? Or how is it off-site construction different from on-site home building? We can answer all of your questions.

FAQs About Modular Homes 

What is a Modular Home?

Modular homes are designed, engineered and built in a factory controlled environment. They are highly engineered homes that are constructed in sections. The finished products are covered in weather-proofed wrapping and transported to their new locations where they are installed on a foundation and finished by a builder. A modular home is not a mobile home; it is simply a home that is built off-site in modules as opposed to on-site.

How do Modular Homes differ from houses built on-site?

Because modular homes are built indoors, they can be completed in a matter of a few weeks as opposed to months. Modular home construction does not see the typical on-site delays that are predominantly caused by the weather. These homes are built in controlled environments under the factory roof and are shipped in weather-proofed wrapping. Also, modular homes can be built and engineered to withstand 175 mph winds.

Depending on your location, you can generally expect to spend anywhere from 10 to 20% less on your home if you choose to build modular. These savings are found mostly in three major areas: bulk purchasing, labor costs, and building materials. They are much more energy efficient, therefore your monthly expenses will be substantially less.

Because modular homes are constructed in a fabrication facility, they are subject to rules concerning factory manufacturing and therefore are thoroughly inspected at every step. These inspections are in addition to the third-party inspections done on every residential building, not as a replacement. Modular homes must conform to specific rules, guidelines and building codes that often surpass those of traditional on-site homes.

How are Modular Homes built?

The building process begins at the design phase. Most modular producers use state of the art computer aided design programs which aid them in customizing floor plans and producing drawings and material requirement lists. Once designed, the building process begins. This process is similar to construction of houses in most residential neighborhoods across the North East and Mid-Atlantic. The quality materials and care for detail, and the same building codes and standards are observed. As you can see, today’s modular homes are models of efficiency and quality assurance.

How long does the modular building process take?

Efficiency and consistent quality are two of the many advantages of choosing modular construction. On the average, a home consisting of two sections will be built in the factory in less than 10 days. Once the manufacturing process is complete, typically with interior finish right down to carpets and wall finish, the unit is transported to the site and placed on the foundation. Final completion is handled by a local licensed builder or general contractor and includes connection of utilities to the home, and a short list of finish work.

What do Modular Homes look like?

Modular homes look like any other home. Today’s building technology has allowed modular manufacturers to build almost any style of home from a simple ranch to a highly customized contemporary. You can add any style window or architectural detail that you desire. Nearly all house plans can be turned into modular homes and, therefore you can create your “dream home.” It doesn’t stop with houses. Modular manufactures are busy building banks, schools, office buildings, motels and hotels. Chances are you’ve been in many modular structures and probably never realized it.

What is the difference between modular and prefab?

A prefab home is an umbrella term for any home built in an off-site factory, which is then delivered by truck to the home site, and assembled by a construction crew. A modular home, which falls under that umbrella, is a type of prefab home which consists of a larger modular components, boxes, which are transported to the building site, where they are then assembled.

Can I design my own Modular Home?

Yes. Most modular companies allow the customer complete design flexibility. You can choose to have a basement, multiple levels, extra bedrooms, larger closets, a wrap-around porch increased energy efficiency and additional insulation in your home. But remember every manufacturer is different. Engineering capabilities and product specifications will vary from company to company.

Is a Modular Home better than a site built home?

The decision is clear. With a modular home you get efficiency and quality control. Efficiency begins with modern factory assembly line techniques. Your home travels to workstations, with all the building trades represented. Work is never delayed by weather, subcontractor no-shows or missing material. A quality control process provides 100% assurance that your home has been inspected for code compliance and workmanship. In-plant inspectors as well as independent inspection agencies inspect the home on behalf of your state & local government.

Are Modular Homes difficult to finance or insure?

There is no distinction between modular and site built homes as far as appraisal or financing. Banks and lending institutions treat both types of construction the same. Likewise, there is no difference in insuring the modular property or paying taxes on it. See our finance page for more information.

What do Modular homes cost?

When you add up all the labor, material and time savings inherent in the modular building process, you will find that the price of a modular home is generally lower than a site built home of comparable size. Plus you will save money year after year, as your energy efficient home keeps your heating and cooling bills low.

Benefits of Modular Construction:

• Highly Customizable

• Constructed in Climate Controlled Environment

• Efficient Building Process & Material Usage

• Energy Efficient

• 3rd Party In-Plant Inspections

• Consistent Quality

• Speed of Construction

• Constructed to Meet or Exceed Local Building Codes

• Cost Effective

If you are interested in building a Modular Home and have more questions, contact us here.