Find the right fit for your lifestyle
Some people use the terms “manufactured home” and “modular home” interchangeably. However, the differences between modular vs. manufactured homes can often times confuse perspective home buyers. The primary differences are attributed to how the home is assembled and erected on the site as well as the building codes each building process must follow.
What is the difference between Modular and Manufactured homes?
Manufactured homes, sometimes referred to as mobile homes, are constructed to a different building standard, the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) code. Modular and site-built homes are constructed to the same building code required by your state, county and specific locality and therefore are not restricted by building or zone regulations. Your new modular home is inspected at the factory during each phase of construction and by an independent third-party inspection agency before it is approved to go to your site.
Modular homes are often confused with manufactured homes. What is the difference between the two? The easiest way to distinguish the difference between modular and manufactured homes is permanence. Modular homes are finalized on a permanent foundation and are not intended to be relocated.
Modular vs. Manufactured
Cost Differences
There are many similarities with the biggest one being cost. Manufactured and modular homes typically cost less than regular stick-built homes. Another similarity is quality control. Because 70 to 90 percent of the home is completed in a factory, a modular or manufactured home is built under controlled conditions and strict quality control standards. Speed of construction is also a factor. Factory-built homes can be erected onsite in 1-2 days, as opposed to 3-6 months for a site-built home.
Customization Options
This is where modular homes truly stand out. If you want to have flexibility in customizing materials, layout and design, modular homes will provide the most amount of choices. The name is a big clue: “modular” means that you can move elements around to your liking.
Today’s modular homes are built to extremely high standards and federal and local regulations. These homes are often recognized as very similar to brick-and-mortar homes at first glance. If you are considering the purchase of a new home, take the time to explore the benefits of both modular and manufactured homes. If you are looking for a lower cost home that offers an abundance of flexibility, then a modular home might just be the perfect answer for you and your family.