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Q & A with
Dennis Walsh
I'm currently working with a developer who's
interested in considering some different possibilities for a parcel of land
at the outer edge of our area. In a recent conversation, he was asking what
I might know about modular or prefabricated homes. Do you have any advice on
this?
Thank you,
J.B., Cranberry, PA
This is a question that's been coming up more often in
the last several years … and it's no wonder as the cost of building
continues to climb in many areas. One of the most significant factors
contributing to these growing costs is the increasing shortage of skilled
labor in the construction industry. The use of factory-built components
including trusses, wall panels and modular systems is considered by many to
offer the solution to this labor shortage in the long run.
Additionally, the controlled environment in a factory allows for a more
efficient use of labor and machinery as well as the ability more easily
monitor workmanship quality. These efficiencies, coupled with time savings
in the field including fewer weather delays and shorter construction cycles
typically result in significant savings in the overall cost of construction.
Although there are hundreds of manufacturers offering various products and
systems, most factory built homes fall in the following categories:
1. Manufactured Homes – These are homes built to meet the requirements of
the HUD building code. They are built on frames supported by axles and
wheels for transport. Since they are built to the HUD code as opposed the
local building codes, manufactured homes are appraised, financed and insured
on a different basis than other forms.
2. Modular Homes – This refers to homes that are built in sections, or
"modules", typically in the range of 12' wide by 24' long to allow transport
by truck to the jobsite. These homes are built in the factory to meet the
building code requirements of the community where they will be "live".
Modular homes are offered today in many creative designs and once assembled,
are often indistinguishable from site-built homes.
3. Panelized Homes – This includes various types of systems that involve the
site assembly of separate sections or "panels" of walls, and sometimes floor
and roof systems, that have been previously "panelized" in a factory. These
are also built to meet the requirements of the local building codes.
This gives you a quick overview. For a more detailed understanding, I’ll
first suggest that you complete our Residential Construction Certified™
course if you have not already done so.
Secondly, I recommend you explore some resources online including the
Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI), as well as the sites of various
factory-built housing manufacturers. You can also visit the National
Association of Home Builders (NAHB) at NAHB.org for
more information. The NAHB offers some information and resources through its
"Systems Building Council". From the MHI, you should be able to gather
information about member manufacturers as well as national events showcasing
manufacturers and their products.
While there is often resistance to overcome due to the lack of consumer
understanding, the pursuit of factory-built alternatives may be very
worthwhile for you, your developer and prospective home buyers. As the
building and real estate industries both work to find affordable solutions
for our customers, the systems building industry continues to make great
strides in providing viable solutions.
Best of luck to you, Dennis
Have a question for Dennis? Write to
question@sellnewhomes.com...
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