Why Build Modular?
At 42 Degrees North, Ellicottville, we have decided to build our homes using modular technology.
With over 20 years experience building homes, we have often been frustrated by the unpredictibility of conventional construction. Building modular in Ellicottville offers a controlled environment giving more predictable build schedules and costs. This helps us from a business perspective and also allows us to pass on the benefits to our clients.
For us, the turning point came when we watched one of our workers actually trying to save us money. He was cutting the trim for a window and decided that, rather than use new wood, he would try to reuse some of the scrap wood. He spent about half an hour looking for a piece of wood that would work. His heart was in the right place, but the amount of time he spent dwarfed any cost savings he might have made on the wood. From then on, all window trims were prepared by a single person and left in the house, next to the windows ready to be put up. One small step….
These days, every time I go to Home Depot and see a plumber with two guys buying a piece of pipe, I can’t help but think how much that piece of pipe is costing the homeowner!
“While nearly every other industry has become more productive since 1968, productivity in home-building — the amount of work done by one worker in one hour, essentially — has declined by half.”
To us, building modular just makes sense - better quality, lower cost, predictable timeframes.
We asked Chat GPT what they thought.
Building a modular house offers several advantages that appeal to a wide range of homeowners. Here are some key reasons:
1. Faster Construction
Efficiency: Modular homes are built in sections (modules) in a factory setting, where construction processes are streamlined and weather delays are minimized. This allows for faster overall construction time compared to traditional site-built homes.
Concurrent Construction: While the modules are being built in the factory, the foundation can be prepared on-site, leading to quicker overall project completion.
2. Cost-Effective
Economies of Scale: Building in a factory allows manufacturers to buy materials in bulk, reducing costs. The controlled environment also minimizes waste and the risk of theft or damage to materials.
Predictable Budget: Since much of the construction happens in a factory, costs are more predictable, with fewer chances of unexpected expenses due to delays or issues on-site.
3. High Quality and Durability
Controlled Environment: Factory construction ensures consistent quality, as the modules are built under strict supervision and using precise machinery. This can result in a higher quality product.
Strong Construction: Modular homes are designed to withstand transportation from the factory to the building site, which often means they are built stronger than traditional homes.
4. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
Reduced Waste: The controlled construction process reduces material waste, making modular homes a more sustainable option.
Energy Efficiency: Many modular homes are designed with energy efficiency in mind, incorporating high-quality insulation, windows, and energy-efficient systems, which can lead to lower utility bills.
5. Design Flexibility
Customization: Modern modular homes offer a wide range of design options and can be customized to meet specific needs and preferences. Homeowners can choose from various floor plans, finishes, and features.
Scalability: Modular homes can be easily expanded or modified by adding more modules, making them adaptable to changing needs.
6. Reduced Environmental Impact
Minimal Site Disturbance: Since much of the construction happens off-site, there is less disruption to the building site and surrounding environment. This results in reduced noise, dust, and overall environmental impact.
Recyclable Materials: Many modular homes are constructed with recyclable materials, further reducing their environmental footprint.
7. Resilience
Weather Resistance: Modular homes are often built to withstand extreme weather conditions, making them suitable for areas prone to harsh climates.
Reduced Maintenance: The high-quality construction and materials used in modular homes can lead to lower maintenance costs over time.
Overall, modular homes offer a combination of speed, cost-effectiveness, quality, and sustainability, making them an attractive option for many homeowners.