frequently asked questions
Are modular homes and manufactured homes the same?
No. Federal modular homes are constructed to the same state, county and specific local building codes as the site built homes and should not be restricted by building or zoning regulations. Keep in mind that your new modular home is inspected at the factory during each phase of construction and an independent third party inspection agency approves each home before it is delivered to site. Manufactured homes (mobile homes), are constructed to the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) code.
How long does it take to build a modular home?
One of the most popular benefits of modular construction is quick turnaround between ground-breaking and occupancy. On average, a home consisting of 4 modules can be completed in the factory in under a week. Once the modules are set on the foundation at the home site, final completion by the local builder can be completed in roughly one month depending on the size and scope of work of the project.
What do modular homes look like?
Modular homes look like any other home. The design flexibility of modular construction allows manufactures to build very simple, extremely complex, multi-family and commercial construction. To see more photos, please visit our photo gallery.
Are modular homes green?
Green Building is the practice of using sustainable materials and design in new construction. Yes, modular homes are by their very nature, green. Assembly in an enclosed indoor environment contributes to reduced waste of material at the factory and the job site, lessens the environmental impact on the land and the community where the house is being delivered, and allows for a tighter built structure to maximize energy efficiency-all of which are key components to green building standards.
Can I custom design my home?
YES. YES. YES! At American Dreams, Inc. we not only accommodate custom designs, we recommend them! If you can dream it, we can build it. We take concepts to reality. Customization is our specialty!
Financing differences?
There is no distinction between modular and site built homes as far as appraisal or financing. Banks and lending institutions treat both types of construction the same. Likewise, there is no difference in insuring the modular property.
Can my home be built on a basement?
Yes. Your modular home can be placed on a basement foundation or crawlspace.
What do modular homes cost?
When you add up all the labor, material and time savings inherent in the American Dreams Inc. modular building process, you will find that the price of an American Dreams Inc. home is generally lower than a site built home of comparable size. Moreover, you will keep saving money year after year, as your energy efficient home keeps your heating and cooling bills low.
Is there a difference in the construction between modular homes and site-built homes?
There is almost no difference in the construction process for a modular home and a site built home. The main difference is that modular buildings have a “head start” in the building process and are built off-site in a factory. They are then shipped in segments to the building site where they are assembled the same way that an old-fashioned home would be. They use the same materials and must pass the same regulations as old-fashioned homes.
How does a modular home save on cost and time?
- Since modular home builders fabricate all the homes at one factory they are able to buy material in bulk quantities at reduced costs.
- Fabrication is done in a climate controlled factory so no time is wasted on weather delays which means lower labor costs.
- Since the fabrication is done in a central factory they can reduce material waste and the workers are more experienced at their specific tasks so they can complete them faster.
- There are no vandalism costs since the fabricated pieces are secure in the factory until they are assembled.
- Since the modular building can be completed faster due to the concurrent building process, there are saving on reduced loan interest.