For many, the idea of a prefabricated home would not even cross their mind as an option, as we are much more accustomed to more traditional methods of building a home.
These methods are often costlier and leave a much larger ecological footprint than the increasingly popular option: modern prefab homes. Keep in mind, there are two main types of prefabricated homes. Essentially, modular prefab homes arrive to the build site with much of the pieces already assembled and ready to place into sturdy ground foundation, while “flat pack” prefab homes send all the required materials are shipped unassembled but with detailed instructions and engineered for simple assembly and pieces that likely fit into each other and lock into place. Depending on the type of home you’re looking to building, either one of those options could work. It’s important to contact a company that specializes in prefabricated homes so you can find what works best for you. Prefabricated homes are by no means a new concept, with the earliest variations of the idea dating back to 16th century India; with some evidence of their mention much earlier than that. There are a few things to consider when choosing to go with a modern prefab home for your permanent residence.
With the pieces assembled in a factory, this eliminates weather as a delay factor in the process. This not only significantly cuts down on the build time, but also the cuts down on waste produced by shipping the materials in the traditional manner. Even the fuel used in transport is decreased and all plays a part in the lowered costs associated with this building method.
Firstly, despite its close association with mobile homes, modular homes are definitely permanent residences; with the pieces going into solid ground foundation the same way a “stick built” home would. They are just as durable as a traditionally built home; able to withstand the same natural wear and tear, weather and other factors as any home would normally be able to handle. Most prefab companies only source materials from the highest quality modular kitchen manufacturers, ensuring your home is perfectly safe and sturdy. Not only are prefabricated buildings great for homes, they work for cottages, guest homes, work sheds, garages and so much more.
It’s easy to assume due to their factory-made nature, all the homes are created exactly the same, and this is simply untrue. These homes are completely customizable. Depending on the prefab company you go with and the model you choose, you can make necessary modifications and get closer to your dream house than purchasing could ever bring you. Keep in mind, with many customizations comes extra costs that may outweigh the costs of a traditional home. That being said, with the highly controlled nature of the building process, it will be much easier to gauge these extra costs very early in the building process so you can decide which details stay and which ones go.
With prefabricated buildings, rebuilding and renovations are much simpler than with traditionally built homes. Prefabricated homes are often seen as a type of “Green building” due to the fact that it creates less waste, and can be built with other eco-friendly features.
For a prospective buyer, you must remember that most subdivisions do not allow for the construction of prefabricated homes so you will need to check on these details when deciding on where you want your home to be placed. Between zoning laws and property rules, it’s important to do as much research as possible, as the land alone may cost upwards of $100,000. Also, keep in mind that no two prefabricated building companies are the same; so find ones that are highly reputable and work with quality manufacturers.
When choosing your next home, give some consideration to prefabricated options.
