modular homes

what are modular homes?
Modular homes are homes assembled in pieces offsite in a factory location, then shipped and put together onsite.

why build modular homes?
1. Modular homes are more structurally sound than some other frame-built homes.
Since modular homes are transported across highways, they are built with an average 10% to 20% (the company that the Center uses has an average of 30%) more lumber than traditional homes and are, therefore, found to be very sturdy. In fact, in 1992 when Hurricane Andrew passed through Dade County, Florida, FEMA found that modular and masonry homes withstood the severe weather better than other types of home construction. (You can view this report here). According to the National Association of Homebuilders and the Wood Truss Council, a 2600 square foot prefab-home with trusses and panels use 26% less lumber, generated 76% less waste and was constructed with 37% of the labor hours of a similar stick-built home (Dwell magazine, feburary 2009).

2. Modular homes are built very precisely.
Since these homes are built in a factory, there is a precision requirement that all parts of the home must be accurately measured to 1/8 inch. Workers who produce these homes work in these factories year-round and stay for longer amounts of time than traditional construction workers. That means that many modular homes are built by seasoned and experienced workers.

3. Modular homes are climate-controlled during construction.
Since modular homes are built indoors and are generally assembled within one day, no parts of the home are exposed to weather prematurely, as with traditional home construction. Wood frames are not warped by rain and mold is not given the chance to form.

4. Many modular homes are very energy-efficient.
The modular home construction company that produces new construction for the Center, Phoenix Building Solutions, produces Energy-Star® rated homes which provide an average of a 30% savings in utility bills.

what is the energy-star® standard?
Energy-Star qualified new home construction must possess a number of features including effective insulation, high-performance windows, tight construction and ducts, efficient heating and cooling equipment, efficient products, and third-party verification. You can access further information here.

current modular home construction: LEED certification!
The Center's new modular homes have already met Energy-Star® qualification. Now the Center is building modular homes that go above and beyond these qualifications for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-Certification.

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