Prefabricated homes – primarily structured homes built off site in advance and then delivered and assembled on site. These have become more common amongst customers who are on the search for a new home and for good reason. There are so many benefits when it comes to prefab homes, but is important to understand the difference between the pros and cons of a prefab home. Here is everything you need to know.
Prefab homes are more affordable
A home built on site can be double the price of a prefab home. Construction done on-site can waste a lot of materials that go into building the house. Finding ways to cut back on waste is not only good for the environment, but your bank balance too. Prefab homes lean towards more efficient use of materials and cut costs as fewer construction workers are needed to assemble the house.
They are energy efficient
They can save a lot of money in the long run due to the design of the homes generally being worked around energy efficiency. These homes adhere to strict design guidelines so the seams in these homes are usually airtight. This will help with leaks, airflow and ensure the home can contain both warm and cool air. As this choice of home becomes more popular, architects are designing prefab homes to incorporate solar panels and wind turbines in order to encourage sustainable living.
Fast construction and little waste
The parts of a prefab home are all assembled away from the location where the house is built. This is great for those who have tight timelines and want to get into their home on time as prefab homes have the quickest type of new home construction available. They are also built-in factory settings meaning there is no waste on site. Whatever is left over during construction can be reused to manufacture another home.
One of the disadvantages of buying a prefab home is that you have to buy the land it sits on. Existing home prices include the land it is built on which is something most home owners expect when it comes to purchasing a new house. Many people find that after finding an affordable prefab home, prices go up due to the cost of land which wasn’t included in the original budget. If a location has been found, it is crucial to ensure it is safe to build a house on it and the land price requested for that area. If the land seems weak, look into pile foundations.
Transportation can also make this difficult
If you have chosen a location that is in a beautiful area but is a struggle to get to, transport companies may charge a hefty fee just to get their equipment up to the construction site. Ensure you have hired a contractor with solid experience as it will reduce the risks of faulty assembly. Without the correct equipment on hand, the risk of modules and panels of the home being damaged during delivery increases.
If a prefab home appeals to you but sounds like a hassle, there are many companies who will sort out all the small details and add it onto the price of the home. Be sure to research what is included in the price offered by the company to ensure you get the most out of your money.
