Modern Prefab Homes Provide Green Alternative

As you know, Texas construction has slowed this summer due to unseasonal rains. We're happy to report that the Texas heat is back, but we're only experiencing a mild scorch.

Our team has been researching modern prefab homes, which have been catching on as a green alternative to standard construction techniques. They're considered green because they're sustainable, utilize energy-saving materials, and construction sites often create less waste. 

The Building Systems Council states that "Systems-built housing - homes that are preconstructed or prefabricated in a factory or mill before being transported to the home site to be completed". Many large builders prefabricate at least some portion of the home, typically the trusses for the roof since they can take a very long time and mistakes can occur on site.

TRUTH ABOUT PREFABRICATED HOMES

Myth: Modular and pre-fabricated construction are the same as a manufactured or mobile home. Truth: A manufactured home is the same as a mobile home, but is pinned down. Prefabricated construction types can be concrete, log, modular or panelized.

Myth: Prefabricated homes are limited in design and boxy. Truth: There are different types of prefabricated homes. Modular construction has some size and design limitations, but architects are getting creative. Panelized systems, concrete and log can be as flexible as the architect you use.

Myth: Modular and prefabricated homes are of lesser quality or "cheap", partially due to how fast they are constructed. Truth: Actually, panelized, concrete and log homes can often be expensive due to the higher-quality materials used. Lower labor costs and the faster build time may put your budget at about the same as a "stick built" home.

See a modern modular at The Dwell Home. Other great designs are at Modern-modular.com.

Research for yourself on the National Association of Home Builders website.

Comments

[alicia]

Where can I find a builder who is specializes in modular homes in Austin?

[Dee Copeland]

Alicia, depending on how nice you want the property, there's a few companies in town. They can build to your specs. The main problem is finding a lot without restrictions and that's affordable.

Central Austin land is quite expensive, but could be good for a green prefab build. Some lenders may classify prefab homes in the same as mobile homes, so that could be a turnoff to other buyers and cause problems.

[Green Homes]

I bought a nice plot just off the 620 and plan on ordering one or two of the new kithuas modulars.

There is still a lot of cheap buildable lots in Austin.

It takes a lot of coordination between your contractor, the city and what is available to build or to build on to.

Check out Modern Eco Homes for what you can actually order and build.

[Dee Copeland]

Two very nice buyers today told me that KRDB and Design Studio are building some cool looking modern prefab homes.

I'm checking into it asap. It would be very exciting to have them build. I may even do a spotlight on it.