Factors to Consider When Comparing Modular Homes
How do modular homes differ from other homes? What are the things you need to look when comparing it to other types of prefab homes? Do these things matter when evaluating the quality of a modular home?
Components of Modular Homes
When it comes to comparing homes, you will have to include different factors such as the floor plan, foundation, warranty, energy efficiency and transportation from factory. Let’s find if they would identify how modular homes are different from other types of home.
Modular Homes’ Floor Plans
Though it is most important factor in comparing homes, the floor plan is not a big thing when it comes to modular construction. There are a hundred of floor plan options for a standard modular home, and most manufacturers allow a home buyer to customize it to suit their personality. The floor plans can be modified from the exterior appearance of your home. You can add a porch, deck or garage to your floor plan. If you decide on using a custom floor plan, you should inquire if they will provide the service for free and if not; you need to hire your own professional floor plan designer.
Foundation of Modular Homes
A strong foundation is one of the characteristics of a good modular home. Generally, it is built as permanent foundation by the general contractor, and it can be a crawl space or a full basement. Because plumbing system will be installed beneath the floor, slab foundation is not uses in modular homes.
Today, many manufacturers choose insulated precast foundation to an increase energy efficiency of the home. Ask your home dealer if your manufacturer uses this kind of foundation.
Modular Homes Warranty
It is a must to have a solid warranty when you’re making a huge investment in your life. That is why it is very important to know if your manufacturer is providing you a modular home warranty.
Most manufacturers offer warranty for individual products such as shingles and faucets. Because many understand that a home buyer needs more warranty for the quality, durability, and energy efficiency of a modular home, manufacturers provide this warranty. But be reminded that warranties vary. They are sometimes not offered by manufacturers directly
since they usually are connected to a large corporation. And most importantly, inquire how many years are included in the warranty, which will debunk your doubts about the quality of your home.
Energy Efficiency of Modular Homes
Maybe the most important factor to look when comparing a modular home is its energy efficiency. The knowledge of how energy efficient is your home increases the value of your home. Make sure and be wise if your home
builder is offering the services for home efficiency.
When assessing for energy efficiency, look whether the attic has an R- 38 insulation or higher. Attic fans remove the hot air during summers, and thereby reduce air conditioning costs. Also notice if the exterior walls are surrounded by housewrap, and have R- 19 or higher insulation, which protects the home from rainwater leakage and prevent air infiltration, respectively. Another thing to consider for an energy efficient home is the windows. Today, low ‘e’ windows are double- paned, which gives good energy efficiency. And lastly, manufacturers suggest that having a tankless water heater is excellent for an energy efficient modular home as it uses electricity to instantly heat the water to exact temperature..
Handling of Modular Homes’ Transportation
Transportation of a modular home is often taken for granted when comparing homes. You must consider the distances of travel from the factory to the project site for the modules are stressed during transportation. Minimizing stress during transportation is a big responsibility that most manufacturers ensure closed distance, and checks road quality. Extra delivery fees are charged when the distance of the building site is far from the factory. Yet it doesn’t mean you have to compromise the experience and quality of work of a modular home manufacturer. You are just comparing modular homes here.
The considerations or factors stated above to compare modular homes should guide you on what modular home design. If you seek for model modular home designs, you can check Legendary Homes, Inc.
“With its superior quality, energy efficiency, strong and budget friendly modular homes, Legendary Homes is one of the trusted modular home builders around Clarklake and Jackson Michigan for over 20 years of experience now. Legendary Homes helps in site location, acquisition of permits, excavation, foundation (including Insulated Pre-Cast Foundations), landscaping, breeze ways and other services needed to complete your home. As a company that prioritizes its customers, Legendary Homes allows you to customize your home. And most importantly, we assist in home financing by working with the top lenders in Michigan.”
It’s amazing news to start building your dream home, right? “We can make your dreams a reality!”
