Modular Homes

by Kim Kinrade

Home building takes on many forms, from the rustic log homes to the palatial mansions of the rich and famous. Whatever the dwelling there are similar steps in home building that they all have to follow: foundation, structure, exterior protection.

Modular and manufactured homes are generally thought of as trailers by those not in the know. This part of the public still thinks in the same mindset of 30-40 years ago when mobile homes were not built well and also a fire hazard. Since then the industry has improved and the modular homes coming out now rival on-site built homes in size, safety and diversity.

Modular and Mobile, or Manufactured

Modular and manufactured homes are different than custom homes because they are both built in factory conditions. In fact much of home is built in a covered, climate-controlled environment. However, many people confuse �modular homes� with �mobile homes.� The differences are many, but the main one is that mobile homes have a non-removable steel chassis, much like a car frame, whereas a manufactured home is a real home built in sections and then transported on a truck and assembled on a regular home foundation. Manufactured homes retain this frame as part of their home structure whereas modular homes have joists like on-site homes.

Modular houses are built in sections called modules, transported by truck to a building lot and assembled. For the most part, these homes can cost less than stick-built homes because the factory conditions eliminate all weather considerations and delays. This atmosphere of construction is also cheaper in labor because the workers are under the supervision of a contractor but not necessarily paid the same amount as a journeyman carpenter, plumber or electrician. Local building inspectors check to make sure the modular home and its utilities meet all the requirements and that all finish work is completed.

Another difference between a modular and mobile home the �perimeter blocking� is for decoration on a mobile home � hides the steel frame underneath - but part of the framing on a modular home. In fact, a the perimeter walls support the modular home whereas this acts as �skirting� for mobile homes and are not functional except for blocking the elements.

Foundations

Modular homes are placed on a standard foundation like the stick-built, on-site houses. This can be a either a basement or pad but a �pier system,� a series of vertical cement posts which support eh weith of the home, is not recommended. This way of supporting the home is popular with mobile homes. All foundations and supports should be placed well below the frost lines for the region. �Runners� are also popular with mobile homes. These are 2' wide, parallel ditches on 6� concrete that run the length of the mobile home. The steel chassis of the mobile home is lowered down on these runners.

A lot of building companies will sell the home and lot as a complete package and will have the foundation and on-site preparations � plumbing, electrical, etc. - completed before the home arrives. If the customer already owns a lot the company will still want to do the preparation work to make sure there is a smooth transition when the home sections are lowered on the foundation.

Requirements for a Good Modular Home

1. Exterior Walls: 2x6 studs

2. Interior Walls. 2X4 studs

3. Exterior Sheathing: 5/8" OSB (plywood is better)

4. Roof: 25 year shingles minimum or architectural shingles.

5. Roof Joists: 2X4 studs

6.Roof Sheathing: 5/8� OSB (plywood is better)

7. Interior Walls: 5/8� fire-rated sheet rock with primed walls

8. Cabinet: This is a personal choice

9. Siding: If using vinyl go with a thick type (some use only a 36 mill thick siding. Fiber cement siding is better. If you are planning to build a garage or shed order extra siding. By the time you get arouind to it they might not make that shade anymore.

10. Plumbing: CPVC (Chlorinated Poly Vinyl Chloride) is better than the �pex� tubing. Check for shut-off valves.

11. Subfloor: 3/4� OSB (plywood is better)

Getting a modular home is very much like ordering a car from the factory. However, homes have many more options and considerations so take your time and get exactly what you want for the price quoted. For more information: