What is Modular Home?
Modular homes are not the same as mobile homes or recreational vehicles. A modular home is a house built off-site from the intended location, consisting of wall sections or modules that are then delivered and finished on site. It’s important not to confuse modular homes with manufactured homes, which are not placed on a permanent foundation.
Modular homes are sometimes referred to as prefab houses or flat pack houses. The term ‘prefab’ (prefabricated) describes a building made in sections that have been constructed off-site. In most cases, modular homes are also considered to be prefab because most sections are built off-site.
A flat pack home, also known as a kit home, is a prefabricated home made up of pre-cut and pre-fabricated parts that are flat-packed and delivered to the building site. These parts are then assembled on-site by a builder, similar to a giant puzzle. Flat pack homes are typically less expensive than modular homes because they are easier to transport and assemble. Assembling flat pack homes doesn’t require a crane, as the parts are just sections of the walls that can be easily handled. Flat pack homes are often used for holiday homes, garden houses or small-scale residential buildings.
In conclusion, the terms modular homes, prefab homes, and flat pack homes are similar with slight differences in assembly style. While modular and prefab homes are built off-site, flat pack homes are delivered in pre-cut parts and assembled on site. Understanding the differences between these terms can help you choose the right type of home for your needs.
Benefits of modular homes
Versus traditional build homes
Time And Cost
One of the primary benefits of modular homes is that they can be less expensive to build than traditional houses. Since they are constructed in a factory with standardised materials and processes, this can result in lower labor costs and fewer delays.
Sustainability
Modular homes can be more sustainable than traditional brick houses, as they are often built with energy-efficient materials and designs. Additionally, the factory setting can result in less waste and fewer emissions than on-site construction.
Quality
Modular homes are built to the same building codes and standards as traditional brick houses, and are subject to rigorous quality control measures in the factory. This can result in a higher level of quality and consistency than traditional brick houses.
Are Modular Homes Eco Friendly?
Modular homes offer an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint significantly. Unlike traditional on-site construction, modular homes are manufactured in a factory and then transported to the final site. This approach reduces the environmental impact associated with transportation. Additionally, modular homes are known to produce less waste compared to on-site construction.
Our manufacturer uses computer-controlled cutting and milling machines to optimise material usage and reduce waste further. We also avoid the use of heavy machinery such as cranes during the construction process, which helps reduce the overall impact on the environment. Moreover, modular homes can be erected quickly, which helps to save time on site.
At our company, we use ground screw foundations to build most of our modular homes. This type of foundation is known for its sustainability and durability, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
By choosing modular homes, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint while still enjoying a comfortable and stylish home.
Energy-Efficient Modular Homes
Sustainable Living Made Easy
The key benefit of modular homes is their energy efficiency and sustainability. At our company, we prioritise building homes that use the most energy-efficient materials and technologies. One such technology we use is SIP (Structural Insulated Panels), which has a very high thermal efficiency and durability. By using SIP panels, we can create a Passive House that achieves airtightness, making it the most energy-efficient building today.
The most critical aspect of a passive house is its ventilation system. Proper ventilation ensures a healthy indoor environment by providing fresh air while also maintaining energy efficiency. To achieve this, we equip all of our modular homes, including pods, garden offices, and garden houses, with a state-of-the-art Prana Heat Recovery Ventilation System. This system is designed to recover up to 95% of the heat from outgoing stale air, reducing heat loss and saving energy while providing a constant supply of fresh, filtered air.
And, to reduce energy loss, we use Veka German quality windows and doors, known for their high efficiency and durability. With Veka uPVC windows, we can bring in more light, creating beautiful glass walls while maintaining high efficiency. For instance, our Veka softline range triple-glassed windows achieve a U-value of 0.7 W/m2K.
By incorporating these materials and technologies, we can build healthy and nearly zero-energy buildings, making sustainable living easy and accessible.
Whant to know more about Modular Homes?
Get in touch with us today to learn all about the benefits of modular homes and how they can provide you with a comfortable and affordable living solution.