Advantages

Due to manufacturing techniques, only the highest quality lumber can be used in modular factories, resulting in a higher-quality home.  When coupled with the fact that building supplies are stored in on-site warehouses, it also virtually eliminates the chance that wet materials will be used when building the modular home.  Since modular homes are built in factories, manufacturers are able to utilize tools unavailable to the site builder such as custom manufactured jigs which ensure that all walls, floors and ceilings are square and plumb. Modular construction methods also make your new home more energy efficient.  Modular homes have much less air infiltration, which is one of the largest causes of heat loss in a home. The fact that these homes are constructed in a factory allows the manufacturer to place more sealants, such as caulking, in problem areas that site builders have no access to.   For example, a manufacturer is able to create a better seal around electrical outlet and fixtures because they can access the walls behind, above and underneath these areas.

Advantage 2 - Inspection & Regulation

Modular homes are inspected numerous times during the construction process and must meet both state and local building codes.  Modular homes are built to the same building codes used by conventional site-builders. As noted above, an independent inspector will certify that the home has been manufactured in conformance with the approved plans and complies with all building code provisions for the location where the home will be erected.   Before a modular home manufacturer begins construction, all building plans must be reviewed and approved in each state where the manufacturer intends to sell homes. Homes must be designed and built to the code for the state where the home will be shipped for final location. The manufacturers contract with state approved third party plan review agencies which conduct plan review on behalf of the state. The modular manufacturer also contracts with a third party inspection agency that is licensed by the states to perform the in-plant inspection while the home is in production. When the housing sections or modules are complete, the third party places a label on the home certifying that the home has been manufactured in conformance with the approved plans and complies with all provisions of the building code.

Advantage 3 – Customization

Modular homes can be customized to meet your needs form the inside out.  Modular homes come in many different styles including, ranch, cape cod, split level, chalet, and two story homes.  Although there are many standard floor plans to choose from within each style, complete design flexibility and customization is available.  You are able to pick out your own exterior and interior options

Advantage 4 - Time

Modular homes are typically built in about 1/3 the time needed to construct a site-built home.  This is because overall building time is reduced by concurrent site work and home construction. In addition, a manufacturer's highly skilled work force has years of experience in the building industry and works year round within the factory. This means that there are no delays from "no-show subs" as may often be the case with a site-built home.  Since your modular home arrives 90% complete, your new home can be ready to move into just one to two months after delivery.

Advantage 5 – Cost

For many, the main attraction to owning a modular home is the cost savings compared to traditional building methods.  Modular homes can be one of the most affordable housing options on the market today and they come in many sizes and shapes. The price of a modular home is less than that of a stick-built home. The modular manufacturer is able to reduce costs by purchasing materials in large quantities at substantial savings and by employing a skilled workforce year-round.   Cost overruns are virtually unheard of in the modular industry.   As mentioned above, climate controlled factories ensure there are no weather related construction delays.  In addition, there are no cost overruns from "no-show subs" (as may often be the case with a site built home).   Next, because of the reduced construction time there is reduced interest on construction financing which means you, the consumer, pay less on your loans.