Most people are more familiar with the term ‘modular home’ than they are with the term ‘systems-built home’, but systems-built, modular, and pre-fab or prefabricated are all terms that describe a home that is customized, built, and completed off-site and is relocated to its permanent foundation site. It is a common misconception that building your new home on-site is better, cheaper, and more efficient than a prefabricated home that is built off-site. In addition to saving time and money, modular homes tend to be stronger and more energy efficient. While no home is ever ‘disaster proof’, it has been proven that modular homes are better at standing up to natural disasters and extreme weather. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has confirmed that modular/off-site homes have been known to withstand wind and water damage from hurricanes far better than site-built housing. In its report “Building Performance: Hurricane Andrew in Florida,” assessment teams from FEMA concluded that modular homes withstood the 131-155 mph winds of the Category 4 storm in August of 1992 far better than site-built housing. (Los Angeles residents can obtain a copy of this publication by contacting FEMA’s distribution center at 1-800-480-2520 and requesting publication number FIA-22. Additional information is available at the FEMA site, FEMA publication file FIA-22).
Why are Modular Homes Better Against Extreme Conditions?
The above report claimed “Much of the damage to residential structures also resulted from inadequate design, substandard workmanship, and/or misapplication of various building materials.” Modular homes are better at withstanding extreme conditions for a number of reasons, many of which are prevented by the vigorous quality assurance checks that all modular homes must undergo.
Specialized Craftsmanship
Modular homes are under strict quality control manufacturing regulations. All parts and homes are factory made. Our builders have all the tools, experience, and training needed to complete each part of the home perfectly and to the same standard every time.
Number of Inspections
Site built homes in LA are subject to 1 inspection from the state of California and 1 local inspection from the city of Los Angeles after the final stages of construction are completed. This single inspector is responsible for inspecting the roof, plumbing and piping, foundation, insulation, and the rest of the home. Modular homes, however, are subject to inspection from the State of California as well as the City of Los Angeles AND an inspection at every step of the manufacturing process. This ensures quality at every step of the construction process, not just at the final stages. California as well as the City of Los Angeles AND an inspection at every step of the manufacturing process. This ensures quality at every step of the construction process, not just at the final stages. Visit our website for more information on why modular homes are the best choice for your dream home!”
