Modular homes are taking the construction industry by storm. If you're looking to build your own home, it's important to consider the benefits and drawbacks of building modular vs. traditional construction methods. Here's a look at some of these pros and cons to help you decide which is the perfect choice for your needs.
The Benefits of Modular
The largest difference between modular and traditional construction is that modular homes are built off-site, generally in an indoor factory or warehouse. This eliminates issues related to weather, seasonal changes, disruptions and other unforeseen delays. The construction of a modular home does not suffer from delays experienced by traditional construction projects, so they are often built in a more-timely manner.
Because construction of modular homes is completed in a controlled environment, modular homes are regularly inspected for safety, quality and construction code compliance. Skilled managers can more easily supervise construction, meaning modular homes are built with accuracy and precision.
Sustainability is another major benefit to building modular rather than traditional. Modular homes can more easily be adapted to sustainable resource usage, such as solar energy and grey water systems. Because modular homes are built off-site, modular construction also reduces the environmental impact and footprint of traditional construction. Less tools, workers, and heavy equipment are necessary on-site when building a modular home.
Both modular and traditional homes are built with regards to relevant safety codes, but modular homes often feature extra safety components than their traditional cousins. For example, modular homes are often built with steel chassis and more sturdy bracing to prevent damage during transport. However, these extra features also benefit the home after its constructed, making the home sturdier in the face of high winds and fierce storms.
In general, modular homes are more cost-effective to build than traditional homes. Construction in controlled spaces such as factories and warehouses means work can be completed quickly and efficiently, regardless of weather conditions and other factors that may increase costs or cause delays. Quicker construction also reduces the amount of time a new homeowner must live in a rental property while their home is constructed.
The Drawbacks of Modular
While building modular is a rising trend in home construction that offers many advantages over traditional construction, modular construction does have its drawbacks. For example, it may be hard to find the perfect location for a modular home, as many neighborhoods and residential areas have covenants restricting the appearances and materials of new homes. Some neighborhoods require all homes be built with brick, and while a modular home can boast a brick facade, it often adds a large amount to the final cost of the home and is not generally practiced.
In some locations, putting together a modular home is more difficult than building traditionally. Raw materials are more easily manoeuvrable than pre-construction pieces, so areas with tight clearances caused by other buildings, power lines, etc. may create difficulties for modular home construction.
Modular homes often don't allow for extremely high-end luxury style builds. If you're looking to build a large mansion, building modular will be more of a hassle than going a more traditional route.
When you're designing your dream home, it's important to consider the differences between modular and traditional construction methods. If modular construction is perfect for your needs and wants, visit us today or download more information below to start designing your home! Or, check out our blog to stay up to date on the latest trends and information in modular construction!
