Modular homes are a quick, affordable option for custom homebuyers. However, many people believe that the benefits of modular home building are too good to be true. How long does it actually take to build a modular home, and is it worth the investment?
How Long Does it Take to Build a Modular Home?
It’s important to remember that every building project experiences some delays. There is no “one size fits all” for building times, even on modular homes. That said, the modular home building process typically takes far less time than the traditional home building process.
Generally speaking, a traditional home takes 9-12 months to build from the ground up. In contrast, a modular home usually takes 3-4 months. This faster building time is the result of several factors.
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The foundation and the home can be built simultaneously.
Because a modular home is built off-site, the foundation of the home can be laid while the home itself is being built. A traditional home requires the foundation to be established before building can occur. Typically, it takes about a month to pour a home’s foundation, which clears quite a bit of time on the overall schedule.
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Contractors often follow similar floor plans.
The beauty of modular home building is that you have the freedom to choose between a highly-customized floor plan and a pre-designed floor plan. If you decide to go with a pre-designed floor plan, contractors build faster according to familiarity.
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Everything is built inside, so the weather is no issue.
Weather plays a massive role in traditional building delays, particularly in areas with harsh climates. Since contractors build modular homes in factories, no need to worry about the weather. This also makes it far easier to build a new home during the winter months or rainy seasons.
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The final assembly is quick and efficient.
By the time your modular home reaches its new location, everything has been built. Contractors simply attach each “building block” to the others, which they can do in a matter of days.
Additional Time Factors to Consider
Again, a modular home’s building schedule depends on several factors. The following are some reasons your home may require more time to build.
- Site Prep
- Post-Building Touchups
- Appliances and Hookups
- Heavy Customization
- Building Size
Other Benefits of Building Modular
Still not convinced? A short building process isn’t the only reason why building modular is a wise investment. Other benefits of building a modular home include the following.
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Fewer Wasted Materials
Modular homes are built in factories, which means contractors can use exactly what they need and then recycle excess materials. Modular construction is certainly a friend to the environment!
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Lower Building Cost
As a by-product of fewer wasted materials, modular homes provide an affordable alternative to traditional home construction. With fewer scheduling delays and faster building time, you save money in numerous areas.
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Move-In Ready Home
When your home is done, it’s done. At the end of 3-4 months, you get to move into a fully-formed, functional home.
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Ability to Personalize
Again, you don’t have to customize your modular home, but the option is there. Work alongside a professional designer to customize your dream floor plan.
