Understanding the Process of Building a Modular Home Addition
Building a modular home addition is an ideal way to increase your living space without having to look for a new modular home. However, making sure that you understand what goes through the construction process of your modular home addition is key if you want a comfortable and attractive new space that doesn’t just look like an afterthought.
Know the Codes for Modular Home Addition
Before deciding on a layout of a modular home, call your local building authority and find out what restrictions you enforce in your neighborhood, such as how far the building setback is from the street and the property lines. The building department can tell you what you need to get a building permit, which typically involves submitting an architectural print and listing all subcontractors who will work on the project.
Plan on the Design Features
Make a list of the features you want the most and draw a rough sketch of the modular home addition. An architect or residential designer will use your sketch and your list to develop a set of working prints.
Hire a General Contractor
Once you have your plan, it’s time to hire a general contractor who will hire and oversee the subcontractors. For a modular home addition, a foundation contractor, a framing crew, roofing crew, electrician, plumber, siding crew, flooring contractor and a heat-and-air (HVAC) specialist are necessary.
Analyze the Bids
Use a detailed bid sheet that lists all the aspects of the addition when getting contractor bids. Analyze the bids with a fine-tooth comb; the lowest one is not always the best deal. In addition to checking contractor references, ask the local building inspector if any complaints are on file for any of the contractors. Stay in close contact with your banker at this stage. An addition is new construction, so the bank often wants a copy of the plans and a list of the contractors, in addition to estimated costs.
Construction Process of Modular Home Addition
The foundation contractor is the first in line and he will oversee the excavation and the construction of the stem wall or slab. If the addition will have a bathroom or other plumbing fixtures, the plumber will now make the initial provisions for drains and sewer tie-ins. After the foundation is in, the framing crew will construct the floor system and then frame the walls and the roof structure. They will also install boxing on the exterior of the addition and sheathing on the roof to form a “shell
The addition is now “dried-in” and it’s time to remove the old wall separating the house from the new modular home addition. Now it’s time for the plumbers, the electricians and the HVAC guys to do their stuff, typically in that order. The roofer and the siding crew should be busy at work outside during this stage.
After the mechanical elements are in, it’s time to install the drywall and the interior trim. When that’s done, all that’s left to do is install the flooring and your new addition is ready to enjoy. Outside, the siding guys should be wrapping up, after which you can level the soil and plan the landscaping.
In case you still have question about modular homes, you may contact Legendary Homes Inc in Jackson, Michigan. A representative will be happy to assist you. Meanwhile you can check our modular home price sheets by signing up to our blog
