People often ask me what I think of the modular building process versus what you would see in a traditional on-site build. Many potential homeowners are concerned about the level of quality you get with modular homes and want to hear what I think.

It’s simple; as with any build, the quality of your modular or site-built home will depend on the skill of the builder.

I work with builders who do on-site builds, as well as those who create modular homes. No matter which method of build you opt for, always choose a quality builder you can trust, and you’ll have a home that is safe, strong and secure.

If you’re building a new home and aren’t sure which one is right for you, let’s break down the differences between a modular build and a on site build.

On-site builds

If you’ve seen some of my shows, you’re familiar with on-site builds, like my Ultimate Garage and Lien On Me. In an on-site build, you pour a foundation and assemble the home, starting from the frame, right on the property.

These projects are a group effort between you, your builders and their team. Because you’re working with a dedicated team, you can customize a home that’s unique to your tastes. After you’ve worked with your builder to ensure your home will be well-protected and strong, the only thing that will keep you from the finishes you want is your budget.

One drawback to think about with a site-built home: weather can affect construction can be affected by the weather. Your materials are exposed to the elements — and that could lead to schedule delays, or materials being damaged if left unprotected during the rain or snow.

These concerns are easily avoidable. Make sure you’re researching any builder carefully — there are a lot of good ones out there who know how to navigate any potential areas of concern and make your build project a success.

Modular homes

When someone mentions a modular home, often the image that comes to mind is a trailer home. Truth be told, you’ve probably seen a modular home and didn’t even know it. Good-quality modular homes can look like a house that’s built on site. The term modular defines the style of building practice — and not its look.

A modular home is built indoors, in a controlled environment. Modules are separate sections that get built, then transported to the property site, set on the existing foundation and assembled into a complete home.

When the build process is taken indoors in a controlled environment, you can end up with a stronger structure because materials aren’t left exposed which can lead to issues of warping, insects or mould.

Building modular doesn’t mean a sacrifice in quality. If you’re using a reputable builder, they will be using building techniques to create homes that are as safe and strong as an on-site build. What I love about modular building as that you’ll typically generate less waste than an on site build.

Building in a controlled environment can see your construction being completed much more quickly. Some homes can even be move-in ready in as little as six months.

While you will have a great deal of control over the layout and finishes of a modular home, it won’t be to quite the same level as you would get by working with a dedicated builder team, working on one house at a time.

Now that you’ve got a couple of options to consider, you may find that your next build project may take a different form than you thought. Whichever style of home you go with, always choose a reputable builder. Once you’ve hired someone trustworthy, you’re sure to build a home that is safe, strong, and will last.

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