Modular homes are among several kinds of prefab or ‘prefabricated’ homes. They are no longer a fad but are the future of construction. Thanks to many benefits such as quick construction and installation time, energy efficiency, customization options, and substantial cost savings, modular homes in India are pretty much the current rage.
Prefab modular homes are so-called because most or all of their parts are built in a factory. Their name is derived from the fact that they are made of huge, 3-dimensional pieces called modules. Such parts are made indoors in a factory and shipped to the home’s location for assembly.
Thus, they differ from traditional homes, called ‘stick built’ or ‘site built ‘homes. The latter are so-called as the house is constructed entirely at the building site.
Modular prefab homes may sometimes be wrongly perceived as cheap or flimsy. But mostly, this is not the reality. Modular prefab homes adhere to local and state building codes and are fixed to a permanent foundation, just like site-built homes.
How are they built?
The modules, made in and shipped from a factory, will typically possess 90% of the features of a finished home. This includes ceilings, floors, plumbing, HVAC, electrical fittings, shutters, sidings, cabinets, light fixtures etc.
After the modules are manufactured in the factory, they are shipped to the building site. Here, they are attached to each other and have a permanent foundation. After this, the finished structure is subject to inspection to check whether it adheres to local codes.
What is the cost?
In general terms, shipping costs of modular homes are estimated based on the distance the modules have to be shipped. Naturally, expect to spend more the farther your building site is from the factory. You must do the proper research and get price quotes when you scout for building professionals.
How are they different?
No matter the case of a site-built or modular home, you must make significant, everyday decisions. First of all, you need to find and buy land. This is apart from the cost of constructing the home, so you need to budget for this separately.
After acquiring the land, you must secure hook-ups to utilities and complete inspections and permits. Some builders will include this in the cost of the home. If this is false, be prepared to spend out of pocket and deal with all the logistics.
Therefore, doing the proper research before selecting a builder is critical. Get references, visit open houses or home shows, and ask them all relevant questions.
Note that site-built homes are still much more common than modular prefab homes. But whether you opt for a site-built or prefab home, it is critical to pick the right builder.
What are the benefits?
Modular homes or prefabricated homes in Delhi feature several benefits like affordability, faster construction and moving-in for residents, better durability, generation of lower construction waste, potential for energy efficiency etc. The customization option and choice of floor plans make the deal sweeter.
In sum, modular prefab homes are a desirable option for homeowners in leading cities in India. They are associated with a slew of benefits that make them increasingly popular.
