Prefab versus Modular Homes

The terms ‘pre-fab homes’ and ‘modular homes’ are the cause of some confusion  – what exactly do they mean ?

What’s the Difference? Prefab versus Modular Homes

When talking about prefab versus modular homes, it’s not always an easy case of either/or. Both have the advantage of having the main home construction occurring in an indoor environment, out of the weather, and with labor-saving tools always at hand. This means no delays due to inclement weather, and no damage to materials from wind, rain or snow. Today there are also options for “green” building materials and features. But there are important differences also; some serious homework is in order when choosing from prefab versus modular homes.

A prefab home is any home built in an offsite factory, which is then delivered by truck to the home site, and assembled by a construction crew. The sort of prefab home known as a “manufactured home” (e.g., the “double-wide”) might share some similarities to mobile homes in construction and materials. Caution may be in order here, for these homes can lose value rapidly and financing can be a problem as well.

Prefab Home Versus Modular Home Construction

A modular home, on the other hand, is a type of prefab home which consists of a number of pieces which are transported to the building site, where they are then assembled. A crane might be required to lift pieces into place. A modular home is often hard to distinguish from a site-built home, and might receive the same treatment for financing.
Construction methods are on a par with those for site-built homes, but the assembly time will be much faster, saving time and money.

Whatever you choose, when considering prefab versus modular homes, be sure to check out your local zoning regulations first. Some communities may not allow all types of manufactured housing.