What is a
modular home?

Modular construction has been identified by many in the industry as a way to boost the level of affordable homes in the UK and in turn, relieve one of the biggest challenges currently facing our housing market. While this form of construction is not new, the popularity of modular homes in this country has steadily increased in recent years and this growth is set to continue. Below we discuss the pros and cons of modular housing.

What is a modular home? 

Modular homes refer to building structures built in a factory-like setting before being transported to a designated location where they are assembled and set on a permanent foundation. These homes are sometimes referred to as factory-built or prefabricated homes and can come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and designs. Some will arrive on-site as fully-fitted units, while others come flat-packed to be constructed within a matter of days.

Although modular housing sounds similar to manufactured housing, a modular home cannot be moved from one location to another once placed on its foundations. Building modular homes can also be completed in as quickly as a few weeks and is considered an eco-friendlier form of construction than traditional housing. Modular buildings are widely used in Japan, Scandinavia, and the USA for commercial uses such as hospitals, schools, and offices, as well as being a popular choice for homes.

What are the benefits of modular housing? 

Modular homes carry a much shorter build time than traditional homes due to a lack of delays often experienced on a building site, such as unfavourable weather. They are appraised the same as their on-site built counterparts and are constructed to last a similar amount of time as traditional housing. Mass production in a factory setting also allows for a higher level of quality control. Modular housing is considered a greener way to build, as efficiency can be increased and waste production minimised when building in a controlled setting. Less build time, waste production, and manpower all help to reduce the overall cost of modular housing, making it a more affordable option than traditional brick homes.

Are there any drawbacks to choosing a modular home? 

There are some drawbacks for those opting for a modular home over traditional housing. Firstly, you are required to purchase the land where your modular home will be constructed, which can add a considerable increase to your overall costs depending on the area you wish to live in. Furthermore, quality can vary as not all manufacturers are the same, therefore you’ll need to carry out your research before choosing a company to build your home. Public opinion of modular homes is also still catching up and preconceived notions that modular housing is lower quality or less desirable could affect future resale value.

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