What is a modular home? A modular home is constructed at a factory then assembled on site. Modular means something that is created from standard units (modules) for easy assembly or use. Modular home expert...
Modular means something that is created from standard units (modules) for easy assembly or use. Modular home expert Chris Fatta explains, "A modular home is a system of producing a home where the home is actually constructed in modular sections at a factory under controlled conditions, and then those modules are shipped to the construction site where they are put together. It's no different than building on site. First the floor is constructed and then the side walls, then the interior walls, and so on. The modules are transported to the site on carriers in an order they can be logically set on the foundation with the help of a crane. The primary difference between a modular home and one built on site is really the time that it takes to construct the home. It's faster than what we call a 'stick built' home. There was also some confusion in the early days between a modular home and mobile type homes. A modular home is not a mobile home." Fatta is a marketing consultant for Haven Homes, a manufacturer of modular homes with locations in Pennsylvania and South Carolina.
What makes modular homes different from homes built on site is that the modules already contain all the electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling systems for a home. These are built into the wall units before they are transported to the building site. Some of the benefits of building a home this way include the fact that since the modules are created in a factory the components are never exposed to bad weather and someone is on hand to make sure that each unit meets quality control standards. Modular homes can often be highly energy efficient dwellings. They can also cost less per square foot than a conventionally built home because the manufacturer buys building materials in bulk. Added to the energy savings this can make modular homes very cost effective.
Another benefit of a modular home is the short time of on-site construction. A modular home can be ready to move into in under a month from the time its components are delivered to the building site. The components are transported from the factory on a special carrier and can be assembled by a local builder. You also have a number of choices in design, layout, and size. You can even create a custom modular home in many cases. Manufacturers use computer aided drafting (CAD) programs to create modular homes to the customer's specifications. There is also a wide choice of exterior finishes and looks to choose from. Most people would not know a home was built from modular units unless they saw it being constructed.
Modular homes are different from mobile, or manufactured, homes because they are built differently and are designed to meet local building codes whereas mobile homes only have to meet federal or HUD code. Modular homes and manufactured homes are also treated differently by banks and insurance companies. Most of these institutions treat modular homes the same as any home constructed on site and modular homes retain market value and appreciate in value at the same rate as a "stick built" home.
