Questions about Modular Homes
When planning the construction of a new home there are many questions you will need to answer and many questions that you will ask. One of the first questions you ask should be "do I have a site built home constructed or an "off-site" factory built modular home constructed".
We believe that after doing some research that you will agree that an "off-site built" modular will be your best choice. Here are a few of the common questions that are asked and the responses from Good Neighbor Homes President, Bob Woods.
Q: Can I build any style home that I want if I choose a Modular Home?
Bob: Yes, we can build just about any style and size home that you want today. The concept of modular homes being a "box" is no longer the case. The advanced design capabilities and the high-tech methods of home building in our industry gives you the choices and ideas that will help you build a cottage or a mansion. All you need do is dream it.
Q: Is it cheaper to build a home modular than it is to site or "stick" build?
Bob: Yes, typically the cost of a modular home is less than a site-built home depending on what you design. It can also be more expensive than site built homes if a site builder skimps on materials, fastening methods or good engineering. Modular homes are engineered structures. Every piece of wood in your home has been engineered to perform in unison with each other to give you a home that will last for years and require little to no repair when maintained properly. A very important advantage having to do with cost in a modular home is that you know your final price when you finalize your order. No surprises, no price increases and no unexpected last minute "Oh, I forgot to include the ..."
Q: Why can't a site built home be engineered like a modular home?
Bob: Fastening techniques are the biggest "high-tech" methods used in a modular homes that can not be duplicated onsite. For example, it is not possible to foam the back of sheetrock to studs and ceiling joists onsite like we do in the factory This foam is very superior to any other method of fastening sheetrock, both in strength and consistency as well as creating airtight envelopes. Controlling air flow is the single most important aspect for long term structure integrity.
Q: Why is controlling air flow so important?
Bob: Air carries moisture which will create rot over the long term and more importantly will feed mold in the short term. Remember, modular homes are built inside out of the rain. All materials are stored under cover at all times. Water just does not get trapped in the home. What do you suppose is the long term effect of a site built home under construction that spends a weekend in the rain before the roof is complete and the windows are installed?
Q: What about custom features like special kitchen cabinets and fancy bathroom fixtures. Can modular homes be built with these items?
Bob: Again, the answer is yes-you can upgrade kitchens using any wood from oak and maple to hickory and cherry. Appliance garages, wine racks, tray shelves, decorative stove hoods and even glazed finishes are available in kitchens. Bathrooms can have many style whirlpools, soaking tubs, special vanities and sinks and even a complete choice of lighting packages. The list of features and options available goes on and on.
Q: Are there special requirements for mortgaging and financing modular homes.
Bob: Modular homes are mortgaged with conventional loans. In fact, you save money on construction loan interest when building modular because first you don't pay for the home until it is delivered and second, the time it takes to complete a modular home is less than the time to complete a site built home so construction financing loans do not have to be held as long. We are also prepared to assist you in financing and we work with various banks and mortgage companies to get you the best rates.
Q: Are modular homes warranteed?
Bob: Our homes are backed by the largest manufacturer of modular homes in the eastern United States, AvisAmerica. You receive a written guarantee for quality of workmanship and materials for a period of one year from the time you move in. You also receive numerous written guarantees from the suppliers of the products used in your home. Many of these warranties are lifetime.
These are just a few of the questions often asked about modular homes. If you have your own questions click on the link below and send us an e-mail we will be glad to respond and help you understand the modular home process.