Planning to Build a New Home? The Modular Design Might Be It!

Source: Archello.com

Getting your dream home isn’t the easiest of projects there are in the world – least of all in Australia which is known as one of the most expensive countries in terms of housing.

Buying a pre-existing home is complex and stressful itself, however, the true headaches and waste of time begin when you want to build your custom abode from scratch.

Taking into consideration it’s one of the biggest and most important investments in your life, you can’t afford to make too many mistakes.

And that’s exactly what happens in a great deal of the cases with traditionally built homes where you have to rely on a trusted team of architects, construction workers, as well as the weather.

Luckily, there’s a modern take on housing that’s here to revolutionise the way we view construction and it’s none other than the modular concept. The time and cost-efficient prefab homes of quality created based on this very concept are known to be beneficial in more ways than one, which is the main reason they’re continuously growing in popularity.

What Exactly Is Modular Building?

Source: Curbed.com

People who are new to the concept usually end up being confused as to what prefab or modular might exactly mean and encompass. The first thing everyone ought to know is that prefab, short for prefabricated, is a broad term that refers to constructions built in factory-like conditions, and modular is just one of its categories.

Also known as factory-built homes, the modular got their name from the modules they consist of which first get created in warehouses and factories, and then get transported and assembled on the site.

This is the precise characteristic that differentiates state-of-the-art modular homes from manufactured and mobile designs, and even makes them superior to traditional on-site built homes for several reasons.

Greater Degree of Control and Flexibility

The simple fact they get constructed indoors, in climate-controlled facilities, makes it possible for them to be completed much faster since there’s no threat from unpredictable weather, nor site delays.

Moreover, there’s incomparable flexibility with the order of construction which isn’t the case with the conventional counterparts that depend on the usual order of completion.

Fewer Delays and Costs

Given that everything is automised, controlled and created according to strict local and state building codes and standards, there’s little room left for mistakes throughout the construction process. As a result, there are no unexpected costs and delays with the assembly, and this goes to show why modular is so much time-efficient and pocket friendly.

Elevated Eco-Friendliness

In addition, it’s considerably much greener as well – besides the reduced waste, there are few trips to and from the site too. Add to this the use of outstanding sustainable materials, top-notch insulation, and ventilation, implementation of rainwater collection and energy-saving elements like ceiling fans, plus eco-friendly solar power systems – all the ingredients that make a green modular home.

What to Have in Mind when Choosing a Prefab Home?

Source: Dwell.com

Being aware of the pros of the modular construction doesn’t guarantee you’d make the most of what it has to offer. To avoid making some basic mistakes, it’s advisable to first get acquainted with the concept as much as you can.

This is crucial so as to enable you to know what you can expect from them and get the best designs of prefab homes for you and your lifestyle. Some aspects that can come in handy with your decisions include the following:

There Are No Limitations with the Design and Materials

Forget everything you’ve known of the modular in the past – the modular of today offers great design and material flexibility. Thanks to having flexible features, the modern prefab homes are very much like regular homes in the appearance, and you’d love them for how customisable they are.

Unlike the long-gone box-like designs, nowadays there are numerous ways in which the modules can be arranged and shaped. No matter what your style preference is, you can get your dream home so don’t be afraid to ask for it from the architects.

With incredible choice of materials, such as steel for the framework, and other BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) rating selected options, even building these homes in areas prone to bushfires is achievable.

Nothing is impossible for this concept, including houses on sloping blocks as long as there’s proper planning. Now, if you want to get the most personalised prebuilt homes, with your choices of materials, fixtures, fittings, accessories, and colours, it’s important to do your research and find the trustworthy companies that work with a collaborative approach with the customers.

There May Be Additional Expenses

Just because they’re said to be much more cost-efficient than the stick-built homes doesn’t mean there would be no extra expenses you’d have to provide for. Hence the urgency to define your budget beforehand and work on your dream home from then on.

Aspects that would make it in the end price, along with the basics like freight, installation, and utility construction, are land preparation with all the necessary site surveys, soil testing, and yard landscaping.

Don’t forget, same as with any regular construction, permits are mandatory, and depending on your specific project and location, you might require both the building and planning permits.

Extra fees might also surge in case you have other requirements for your dream prefab homes, be they enlargements or attachments, in the likes of decks, and garages, so be sure to take them into account too. If you feel your budget comes out short, good news is you might be able to get a loan.

You Ought to Choose a Home with the Proper Sizing

Source: Architectmagazine.com

Downsizing is okay and all, but if it’s comfortable living you’re after, you can’t pick out any home you set your eyes on solely for its design beauty. It’s essential to consider your lifestyle, and the needs of each family member prior to deciding on the home’s size to avoid ending up with cramped spaces and the discomfort they bring about.

Before long, building one of those would leave you in want of a new, not-so-cramped home. To make sure it’s a balanced design, i.e. neither too big nor too small, don’t forget to also have your budget limit in mind. It’s the right strategy that would help you avoid overspending and at the same time get the right amount of space to fit all of your possessions comfortably.

Home Base Project Team
Home Base Project Team
At The Home Base Project, we offer practical, real-life tips and inspiration about DIY, decorating and gardening. The Home Base Project provide the best information about home renovation and design, connecting home design enthusiasts and home professionals across the world.