The Benefits of a Modular Home

The Benefits of a Modular Home

Written by Sarah Duquette, Zenergy Communications

When we think of industry evolution, we often think of technology or medicine – but what about construction?  The world is constantly finding new and smarter ways of doing things across all branches of industry.  One of the greatest advancements in precision construction over the years is undoubtedly the modular home!

Not schooled on the trend? Well sit down, because class is in session.

What are modular homes? 

Conventional builds take place almost entirely on-site, building from the ground up from foundations to fixtures.  Modular homes, however, are begun off-site and indoors in a factory-like setting, and then are transported to site to be completely assembled by a builder. 

The versatility and speed of the process means that modular homes can be used as long-term, temporary or permanent facilities.  Modular homes – which can also be referred to as factory-built, system-built, or prefabricated – are fully customizable and vary in style and size. 

While differing in many aspects from traditional builds, modular homes are value-appraised the same way as their built on-site counterparts, have the same insurance premiums and taxes, and qualify for the same home loans.

Modular and prefab homes are not the same as mobile homes, though they often tend to be confused as all belonging to the same style of home.  A mobile home has wheels and can be transported from one location to another; however, you do not pick up your module home and bring it with you when you move! 

Some people also confuse modular with mobile in thinking that modular homes are what you find in a trailer park.  Modular home design has come a long way in the past decade and some architects and designers even specialize in modular homes.  Yes, modular houses are built in a facility, but they don’t all have the same cookie-cutter look.  Modular homes can be customized to the homeowner’s unique needs and style – everything from the layout, to the materials used, to the finishes can be personalized.

What are the benefits? 

Modular homes can be more affordable than site-built homes, not only in terms of production and building costs, but also in the long term.  Their energy-efficiency means that monthly bills/expenses are substantially less than regular builds.  Homeowners can also save money through a shorter build time, because some modular homes can be completed on a construction schedule almost 50 per cent shorter than that of a traditional build.  The surprise costs associated with construction delays are also averted since the factory assembly process offers more control over schedule and the cost is fixed.

Since most of the building process happens within a factory setting, the building materials aren’t exposed to the elements during construction, which keeps them from warping or developing weaknesses or issues with mould from water damage.  When it is -30°C outdoors and traditional sites are shut down, pending homeowners of a modular home can have peace of mind that a team of skilled labourers are still busy constructing their home with no fear of delay or materials being compromised by the weather.  Modular homes are also considered a form of ‘green’ building, so, they are a perfect alternative for the environmentally conscious.

Other benefits include:

• Modular homes can have a higher quality-control standard than traditional builds and are strong, energy-efficient home options
• Modular homes are permanent structures and can be built on crawl spaces or basements
• Loans for modular homes are the same as site-built homes
• Modular homes can be built for accessible or assisted living needs

Are there any downsides?

While modular homes are typically less-expensive overall, the up-front fees can be cost-prohibitive for some homeowners.  Typically, the builder must be paid in full in advance of starting construction.  The homeowner must also own the land on which the modular home will be permanently located.  It’s important to know your budget and the options available to you when considering any form of homeownership.

Things to know when building a modular home

To create a truly seamless build, modular home companies, like Move Home Ecologoical Modules Inc., incorporate other smart technologies to complete the turnkey solution boasted by a modular build.  Move Home manufacturers mobile modules that allow homeowners to configure their living spaces to maximize their potential.  An excellent solution for tiny houses, cottages, and modular homes, Move Home Modules offer great flexibility and can adapt to any space, whether you’re looking to maximize an open-concept unit or to convert a large existing space into smaller rooms, such as when renovating a basement to create a rental suite.

For plumbing, innovative products like SANIFLO®’s Sanicompact®, a toilet which does not require breaking/drilling through the floor during installation, are preferred. The Sanicompact is tankless and self-venting, which means that it does not need to be connected to a vent stack.  When flushed, waste and grey water are pumped up and out to a septic tank or sewer line through small-diameter piping, rather than flowing down like in a traditional plumbing system. 

Like all Saniflo products, the Sanicompact is installed on top of any finished floor surface, thus eliminating the need for homeowners/installers to cut through the floor to install pipes.  This makes it a great solution for modular builds that do not include a crawl space or basement.

The demands within the construction industry are the same as with all others; people want top quality innovation, and they want it now. With both time and cost on its side, it’s easy to see why modular homes are fast becoming a popular, modern approach to an age-old process – we’ve come a long way from setting up camp in caves!