Insulated concrete forms
An insulated concrete form (ICF) system eliminates the cold drafts typical of wood-frame construction.
Modular homes
Modular homes are built in a factory under controlled conditions, then shipped to the homesite and placed on a permanent foundation.
Many people confuse modular homes with mobile homes. While the construction process is similar, a modular home is placed on a permanent foundation.
Another considerable advantage is time. Once an order is received, it takes only a few weeks for a home to be built and delivered to the final site.
When the sections are set, workers secure it together using the same techniques as stick-built construction.
Windows, cabinets and even appliances are installed in the factory, so the home is 90 percent complete when it's transported. All that's left to be done are a few pieces of siding and some minor interior trim.
The floor plans and interior finishes can be customized in dozens of ways to make every house suit the individual homeowner's tastes.
In the factory
The primary benefit to a factory-constructed house is the controlled environment. No matter what the weather outside, the skilled crafters in the factory work year-round with no delays or unforeseen situations.Another considerable advantage is time. Once an order is received, it takes only a few weeks for a home to be built and delivered to the final site.
On-site construction
Modular homes are shipped in sections on flatbed trucks. When the trucks arrive at the home site, a special crane lifts the sections and places them precisely on the foundation.When the sections are set, workers secure it together using the same techniques as stick-built construction.
Windows, cabinets and even appliances are installed in the factory, so the home is 90 percent complete when it's transported. All that's left to be done are a few pieces of siding and some minor interior trim.
A finished home
Once a modular home is completed, you can't tell the difference in how it's made. Modular homes are available in a huge array of architectural styles, including ranch, split-foyer, colonial and even Cape Cod.The floor plans and interior finishes can be customized in dozens of ways to make every house suit the individual homeowner's tastes.
More from this category
Decoding building requirements
Learn about some of the changes for new homes built today. An expert highlights some of the things to consider when building a new home.
Air quality and ventilation in new homes
New, energy-efficient homes need new solutions to circulate and ventilate the air inside the home.
Historic preservation
A preservation expert shares how to restore an older home economically and energy efficiently.
Structural insulated panels
Structural insulated panels, also called SIPs, foam-core panels or stress-skin panels, are significantly more airtight than stud walls.
Energy efficient kitchen remodel
This kitchen remodel features a new window, energy-efficient lighting, new appliances and side-wall insulation.
Turning a barn into an energy-smart home
Roof and attic
Your roof and attic play the most crucial role in your home's energy efficiency system, reducing your energy costs during the winter and summer.
Talk to your utilities
Before you break ground on a new house, give your utility companies a call. They can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and construction delays.