What is a Modular Home?

Modular homes are often called factory-built or prefabricated homes. These are constructed indoors in a factory-like setting and transported to the desired location for assembly. The facilities in which the sections are built are massive, climate-controlled, and must be compliant with national building regulations. The sections are transported using trucks and cranes. This modular system of construction is also applicable to other buildings such as classrooms, meeting areas, communal wash areas, and a lot more. Modular home construction is actually a rising trend here in the Philippines.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of modular homes?

Time is the main edge of modular homes compared to the traditional house construction mode. Since the frames are already pre-built, you can expect a quicker turnaround time than building a house from scratch. The cost of building modular homes is also less expensive, as it is one of many being built by the same manufacturer. There are also fewer manpower costs. Modular homes are also built with sustainable materials, making them more environmentally friendly.

Issues, on the other hand, may also arise with modular homes. First is the low perceived value when you decide to put it on the market. There is also less customization since you are dealing with pre-built sections. Although there is an opportunity for certain themes (rustic, modern, traditional, etc.) with modular homes, there is more room for customization in building from scratch.

Quality and consistency can be expected from both modular and traditional house construction, with conservative consideration that both are produced by reliable manufacturers or contractors.

Should I opt for a modular home?

It really depends on your preference and purpose. As both modes of house construction offer advantages and disadvantages, you should opt for the option that meets your needs better. If you are in any way constrained with time and need to have a home within a specific timeframe, then you can opt for a modular home. On the other hand, if you are planning on selling the house in the future you can go for the traditional mode of construction as the market may be less accommodating in terms of resale value.

Modular home construction has seen quite an improvement since it started in the construction industry and we can hope for more developments soon.