Modular Construction: The Safer Home Building Alternative

Many homeowners are considering modular construction for new homes. Modular is often an attractive choice because it can be more affordable than stick built homes while not sacrificing on the structural quality of a home and its appearance. Additionally, modular construction is a much safer building alternative.

One of the main reasons why modular construction is safer than other building methods is that the modular home building process takes place in an extremely well controlled factory environment focused closely on efficient and green construction processes. Factory construction creates a work-space in which it is critical to keep errors to an absolute minimum.  Inventory is better controlled, major components can be reused and there is little site disruption or impact to the environment.

Because modular homes are built indoors, the risks that come with working in harsh weather environments are eliminated. Some construction safety problems that exist today find their roots in rain, freezing temperatures and other poor weather issues. Modular home construction is not subject to weather delays.

Prefab construction also requires fewer contractors than a stick built construction project, which not only makes things more organized and reduces costs, but also brings down the risk of injury as the building site is less crowded and easier to work in. Prefab building has been shown to reduce the risk of work-site injuries because of its focus on consistency, a more open and organized work environment and the ability for modular contractors to work indoors and out of the elements.

These are just a few of the reasons why modular construction is oftentimes the safest way to go when it comes to constructing a home.

A Modular Solution for the North Dakota Housing Shortage

There is a growing housing shortage in North Dakota that is affecting individuals, families, workers and corporations looking for adequate housing. Traditional construction is struggling to keep up with the population growth as projects typically take long to complete and cannot be mass produced. This means those looking for a traditional home may have to live far from their workplace or some are being forced to live in their vehicles until a housing solution is found. With this shortage, it is very important to provide the necessary housing for these individuals in a quick and efficient way.

One solution is found in modular construction. Modular homes are built off-site in a climate controlled factory environment and then assembled together in the final location. Unique to modular construction, as homes are being built, site work commences to install the foundation and utilities, resulting in earlier occupancy and savings. Traditional construction often takes far too long to complete.

Since a modular home is built off-site, it can be worked on as often as needed, independent from weather delays. Modular homes also give a large number of options when it comes to construction such as single or multi-family homes with dozens of style variations.

A modular housing solution improves the North Dakota housing shortage and gives residents a place they are proud to call home.

The Possibilities of Modular Home Design

When it comes to finding the perfect home, chances are you have spent a majority of time shopping around only to find that none of the houses actually meet your needs. This is a rather common issue and one that could become frustrating. Modular home construction is often chosen to eliminate lengthy construction timelines and increase flexibility.

There are many different features available in a modular home. A modular home can be designed to meet your exact floor plan and layout requirements and a variety of interior and exterior finishes are available. A modular home offers you the freedom to tailor design your house to fit your unique needs. Modular homes can be permanent structures or they can be designed to be relocated, should the need arise.

A modular home is mostly fabricated off-site in a climate controlled factory environment, so when it arrives to the final site, it only has to be connected and assembled. This reduces the construction time and environmental impact. Choose modular construction for your next home and get exactly what you want.

N.D. tops country in housing growth rate

BISMARCK, N.D. — North Dakota’s rate of housing growth is higher than any other state in the country, the governor’s office said July 2.


The state added 7,388 new housing units in 2012, a growth rate of 2.3 percent, according to estimates compiled by the U.S. Census Bureau, while the country saw an average housing growth rate of 0.3 percent.


“The state is using several programs to facilitate the development of housing and our progress is proof that our strategies are working,” Gov. Jack Dalrymple said in a news release.


Williams County topped the U.S. Census Bureau’s list of the nation’s top 100 in housing growth with 1,525 new housing units, a 13.9 percent increase. Ward County followed with a 4.8 percent increase with 1,318 new housing units.


Stark County ranked eighth with a 3.1 percent increase. Cass County came in 23rd, having a 2 percent increase with 1,372 new housing units, and Grand Forks County saw a 1.4 percent increase with 401 new units, putting the county 58th on the list.

Source: http://www.prairiebizmag.com/event/article/id/15159/

Going Green With Modular Homes

There are more products in the marketplace that allow consumers to be environmentally responsible than ever before. These products range from cleaning products to modular homes. Homes can actually be constructed with a green initiative in mind. This includes everything from the construction of the panels to the energy efficiency of the finished home.

Many of the modern modular homes are built to use less energy. There may be solar panels on the roof or thicker layers of insulation on the sides of the home. When there is less heat being absorbed into the home, the AC doesn’t have to work as hard. As a result, the electricity bills are considerably less. This has a direct result on the environment in a positive way.

Builders are creating green modular homes that use sustainable materials. In a standard construction home, a lot of materials are being taken directly from natural resources. This includes lumber and many other items. It’s not good for the planet, yet they are used anyway. The use of sustainable materials in construction is much more environmentally friendly. When these products are used, it creates a smaller environmental impact than traditional building materials. For example, a roof may be constructed of metal, slate shingles, or some other sustainable product instead of traditional asphalt shingles.

With modular homes, a homeowner often has more control over certain aspects of the home. There are endless floor plans available. Adjustments can be made to the floor plan based on individual preferences. Once the panels are constructed off site, they are then brought to where the home will reside. As the construction crew assembles the panels, other decisions and changes can be made.

The piping, hardware, and appliances will need to be selected. Many homes going green are built specifically to be energy efficient. There are faucets and shower heads that will reduce water flow. In addition, energy efficient appliances can be selected that will use less energy in their operation throughout the home.

Modern modular homes are being decorated with the green initiative in mind as well. Instead of carpet or tile, the flooring may be bamboo or cork. The walls will be painted with organic paints. Even the curtains on the windows may be made of organically-produced fabrics.

A standard construction home is expensive to build. Add green initiatives to it and it may be cost prohibitive for the average homeowner to build. Green modular homes are typically more affordable for home buyers because in general, they are less expensive to build. Those who are looking to embrace the green initiative in every way now have an affordable way to own an environmentally friendly home.

There are many companies that offer modular home specs. Choosing one should be based on the available floor plans, the materials used in construction, as well as the cost. Every company has a different way of doing business and a different set of offerings. Do your research and speak to a variety of companies before making your final decision on which company to purchase your new home from.