A modular home and manufacture home are two different things that are usually mistaken as one. A modular home is built piece by piece in an enclosed factory setting, designed according to a builder’s specifications, with many floor plans to choose from, and many possibilities for unique design. On the other hand, manufactured homes are mobile homes that have features to accommodate the needs of its owners but not as comfortable as the modular home.
Building Codes for Modular Home and Manufactured Home
There are different standards and house-building codes. Modular homes must conform to the same local and state codes as on-site, traditionally constructed homes. These codes may vary from state to state. Manufactured homes must conform only to the HUD housing code. Codes for modular homes are, in most cases, more thorough and involve regulating energy efficiency.
Customization Options
Modular homes offer many customized design options and amenities. A manufactured home is available with three design options, generally: Single-wide, double-wide, and triple-wide.
An innovative custom modular home company will have hundreds of designs and floor plans to choose from. These floor plans can be altered to customize your new home. While the simplest modular home constructions of the past have resembled manufactured homes–a.k.a. “mobile homes”–new construction and energy efficient green construction and design, have given modular homes more design options and flexibility than before.
Financing a Modular Home and Manufactured Home
Because a modular home is constructed on a foundation, lenders view modular homes the same as they do traditional homes. Manufactured homes appear as automobile loans, or under a separate lending category.
Construction Process of a Modular Home and Manufactured Home
Depending on the design and the manufacturer, some modular homes can be built in the factory in as little as 2 weeks. Also, since the home is constructed in a factory setting, there is never a weather delay. Once delivered to the building site, most modular homes can be assembled in two months, often less.