In the past 50 years, the design and construction of houses have changed dramatically. This raises questions about the differences between the types of houses that are offered by the real estate market.
The most popular types of homes currently are Manufactured homes, Modular homes, and Traditional Homes.
You would not be able to tell the difference in practice if you lived in one of these buildings. Regardless of the construction type, they all must meet the same safety standards, hygiene standards, and provide basic services.
However, technical differences were found between the prefab, the modular homes, and traditional homes.
These variations can have an impact on the purchase price as well as future remodeling, expansion, or repair costs. We will be reviewing several.
Construction of Prefabricated, Modular, and Traditional Houses
It is common, for example, to confuse the term Modular Homes with Prefabricated Houses.
A manufactured house is constructed entirely in a factory using pre-assembled sections.
Each component and wall is pre-assembled with specific molds and materials. Many houses can be constructed quickly using the same tools and processes.
The house will then be transported to the plot or place where it will remain permanently.
The most popular are those that use concrete, PVC, wood plates, or modified cargo containers.
Mobile Homes have been extremely successful in Spain and other European countries. They are also included in this category.
Modular Homes and Traditional Homes
Modular Homes are built in a factory or a workshop. However, they can be constructed in different sections.
These sections are then taken to the final location or terrain, and they are joined to create a sturdy and resistant building.
The Modular Homes can be made in any size. It all depends on how many modules are used to make it.
The Traditional Houses, on the other hand, are constructed in stages. They start with the preparation and foundations and then move on to the assembly and support of the columns.
The final step is to build ceilings and walls, install electrical wiring, plumbing, and place windows.
This takes longer and houses won’t be able to move after they are built.
Different types of houses: licensing and procedures
When building an old home in Spain it is important to consider the lengthy time required to obtain a license.
Modular Homes and Prefabricated Homes, on the other hand, can be constructed immediately while the owner processes his construction license or residential use permit.
A building license for a traditional home in Madrid can take as long as 12 months to get approved. Add to this the time required for the actual work and any delays caused by labor, material logistics, or weather issues.
They made their modular homes in just a few weeks. Once the owner gives permission, they can be shipped and assembled.
Differences in extending, modifying, or repairing
Prefabricated houses are easy to construct using a delivery system, laying tiles in a systematic workshop, and using a delivery system.
These systems are also used by modular homes. allows you to modify the size and layout of your house according to the land available and the client’s needs.
It is possible to add modules to the mix or to modify their distribution to create new sets. For example, we are referring to more rooms, more space, or better service areas.
Finally, Traditional Homes require a slower construction process and a greater investment of labor and materials.
Cost differences in the medium- and long-term
Prefabricated and modular houses are constructed using industrialized methods that significantly lower the cost of materials and labor than traditional houses.
These methods are also much faster than traditional homes in terms of building an entire house.
In absolute terms, Manufactured homes are the most profitable option because of their lower manufacturing costs, great durability, and high energy efficiency. They also have a high resale value in today’s market.
But, if you consider the cost of maintaining, fixing, or modifying a home, Modular homes are the absolute winners in both the medium and long term.
It is easy to repair damage to walls, ceilings, and windows because they are made by joining prefabricated, but separate sections. It is as simple as changing the damaged section for a new part.
This allows you to avoid having to leave the property while you make repairs or modifications.
Traditional houses are more costly, but they can be customized with a variety of materials and designs. All of this will depend on the buyer’s financial capacity and personal taste.
Efficiency and sustainability
Finally, let’s mention the differences in these three types of houses in terms of sustainability as well as respect for the environment.
Construction and real estate companies have had to adapt to clients’ demands for greater energy efficiency, sustainability, durability, and longevity in their new homes.
The importance of thermal insulation in your home is important for both comfort and cost-savings on electricity and gas bills.
We see houses today that are extremely efficient in energy consumption, and whose construction minimizes costs of concrete, wood, and steel. This is good for the environment.
It is generally believed that Prefabricated Homes can live a similar life span to traditional ones. It is difficult to disassemble and reform them.
The Modular Home addresses this problem while maintaining a stable price, which is important in a market that fluctuates frequently.
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