What is the Difference between Modular and Prefab Homes
If you’re considering a new home there are a number of options out there for you. Two terms you might come across during your search are “prefab” and “modular”. But what is the difference between modular and prefab homes? It’s always important to do your research prior to stepping foot in any property, and you need to know what you’re getting yourself into, which is exactly why you need to understand what is the difference between modular and prefab homes.
What Is The Difference Between Modular And Prefab Homes?
Before we delve into what is the difference between modular and prefab homes, let’s first discuss each kind of home in detail:
What is a Prefab House?
The term “prefab” is used in a number of ways within the construction business. Whether it is in relation to your home or to commercial construction, prefab essentially means portions of the home will be built off-site and then shipped to the desired location. Basically, if you’ve ever been driving down the highway and see the “Wide Load” team of vehicles, and several of the trucks holding portions of a house, these pieces are for a prefab house.
There are some advantages to this. The prefab house can be built much faster than traditional outdoor construction. This is because the home is built within a large factory. This means weather conditions will not slow down construction. It also means different teams can work on the home throughout the day and night. Because construction takes place indoors there are no noise requirements. Outdoor construction on a lot will need to be completed by a set time during the evening and it is not allowed to start until a set time in the morning. With the prefab home, these time constraints are not an issue. In many ways, the construction takes place just like a car or other product within an assembly line. Individual workers have specific tasks, and they perform these exact tasks.
If you’re interested in a home that is built for you as quickly as possible, prefab is the way to go. There are actually a number of ways you can go about building a prefab home. You can order through specific service providers, or you can even shop for prefab homes on Amazon (these are usually extremely small and may not have the kind of features or amenities you’re interested in). You might have some basic say in layout, but for the most part, the majority of the home is built following the handful of options you’re able to select from.
What is a Modular Home?
There are some basic similarities between a modular home and a prefab home. With a modular home, there are some portions of the construction built off-site inside a warehouse. However, with a prefab home just about the entire construction is built off-site. That isn’t the case with a modular home. This is because you have more construction options when choosing a modular home. With a modular home the frame might be constructed off-site, but the siding and other additions may be added once the frame is placed on your lot.
For example, when shopping around for a modular home you have more material options for the outside of your home. Instead of traditional composite siding, you may be able to choose wood or brick. You are not going to be able to order a brick prefab home because the brick will likely fall apart during transit. With your modular home once the frame is leveled the brickwork can begin.
One of the major benefits of going with a modular home is the construction team will have an in-house engineer specialist who can use computer-aided design (CAD) software to map out your current lot and the land with the construction. With a prefab home, you don’t have this option. The building will basically be placed on your land, regardless of how the land lays. However, with a modular home, the building can be constructed based on your land, which includes any hills or other features.
With a modular home, the finished product will be an actual, permanent structure. If someone moved in next to your modular home several years down the road they would not be able to tell the difference between your modular home and on-site construction. However, they will still be able to identify a prefab home. Prefabs often are placed slightly above the ground, or there is not a perfect fit between the ground and the property. Portions of the property might be elevated with cinder blocks, which can lead to problems with draining and flooding. Thanks to the CAD software and the ability to properly construct a home on your lot, you will not be susceptible to these kinds of situations with a modular home.
A Prefab Upgrade
In many ways, a modular home is a prefab upgrade. With the prefab, you have limited options and the house will basically be dropped off on your lot (with the utilities connected and some basic fine-tuning performed). However, the modular home gives you plenty of construction options, which really allows you to make the home your own. It will take longer for the home to be finished and move-in ready, but if you want the best home construction experience possible, if you’re considering modular or prefab the modular construction is absolutely the way to go.
The Right Modular Home For You
Now that you know what is the difference between modular and prefab homes, you’ll be able to decide which is best for you. Should you determine a modular home is right for your particular needs you will need to go with a contractor that thrives in this kind of construction. At My Home Crafters, that is exactly the kind of contractors you have access to. Whether you’re looking for an Essex two-story home, or you’re interested in the classic Elm construction, there is a home design for you. Contact the professionals at My Home Crafters for the latest on modular homes today. A friendly customer service representative will talk you through the next step.