Most homes are still built on-site, as opposed to being prefabricated and trucked in. That doesn’t make sense, says Sheri Koones, author of four books on prefab housing.

“Would you want your car to be built in your driveway?” says Koones, of Greenwich, Conn. “Of course you wouldn’t. You want your car made in a climate-controlled factory by skilled professionals on an assembly line. Wouldn’t you want the same thing for your home?”

Prefab homes, a concept that’s been around since the 1900s, generally refers to factory-built modular housing. They are built to the same code as traditionally built homes, with additional structural requirements to make sure they withstand being transported. Depending on the home’s size, multiple pieces (or modules) are delivered to a site and secured together onto the foundation in a matter of hours.

Prefab homes are typically 60 to 90 % complete at the time of delivery, but often require an additional two or three weeks for finishing touches.

Because modular prefab homes are indistinguishable from site-built homes, they have become increasingly popular, pushed by the growing interest in green building.

“Prefab homes are much more efficient and environmentally friendly. There is so much less waste in the manufacturing process. Any excess materials can be recycled into other homes or sent back to the manufacturer instead of ending up in a dumpster,” Koones says. “Because the materials aren’t exposed to the elements, prefab houses avoid problems with mold, rot and bacteria.”

There are also worker health and safety benefits to building homes off-site. “Modular construction professionals can work year-round, indoors, without being exposed to the elements.”

Still, some consumers remain unsure of what a green home built off-site would entail.

But cost is also a reason to go prefab. Since, in many cases, modular homes companies have already designed floor plans, there are no architect fees, time delays or cost overruns.

Modular homes can be customized, too. Some companies offer environmental upgrades beyond standards such as low-VOC paint and efficient appliances.

Of course, consumers still tend to choose homes based on gut reactions, emotional connections and personal taste.

If houses aren’t attractive, no one is going to want to build an efficient house. One of the misconceptions about modular homes is that they’re all modern, and not everyone likes modern. The truth is, most of the prefab being built in this country is actually traditional.

For more information on modular homes, contact Tidewater Custom Modular Homes.

Washington Post