Why Modular Homes Should be Important to Building Materials Manufacturers.
1. Better Construction
Every house starts with building materials used in construction. Lower quality materials lead to structural defects and extra costs for the home owner. Modular houses use the highest quality materials for two reasons: the extra inspections required and the fact that they have to withstand travel to the home site. Additionally, the factory setting in which the modular sections are created leads to less damage to materials and higher quality in the construction process over all. Building material manufacturers have an opportunity to offer the highest quality products to modular houses. They can also have confidence that the customer will appreciate the high-quality materials, leading to an increased reputation for manufacturers.
2. Regular Customers
Modular homes require regular ordering of building materials. Numerous homes are created in a shorter time period than with traditional homes. For example, they often require so much lumber that often a lumber retailer can survive with just modular home construction customers. When high-quality materials are offered to such customers, regular and ongoing orders are sure to provide ample business. Further, because modular homes are constructed more quickly, perhaps in just one or two weeks, in a factory, materials are ordered more often as each project is finished.
3. Buy in Bulk
A traditional home built onsite one at a time requires fewer building materials than factory who create modular homes. These modular home manufacturers buy lots of materials in bulk. This allows them to avoid seasonal shortages that can sometimes cause delays or having to use inferior products. Building material manufacturers catering to modular home construction can benefit from bulk orders.
4. Specialized Materials
A number of different types of modular homes use specialized types of materials. For example, “green” homes use non-toxic and sustainable materials. Further, the trend towards high-efficiency modular homes also increases the need for specialized materials. Silicone based solutions, such as adhesives and sealants, are needed for energy-saving windows and doors. Natural construction chemicals are used in everything from concrete treatments to cement boards. Manufacturers who provide these specialized materials are sure to find regular customers who buy large amounts of materials in bulk.
5. Innovative Materials
Manufacturers who are innovative with building materials also have an opportunity to get more business with modular homes. For example, panels similar to lightweight fiber materials used in boat and aircraft construction are also being used in a number of modular homes. This innovative material is water, mold and termite proof. Used in walls and roofing, this material bends more than the average built home, which leads to withstanding severe weather more. Many other manufacturers are coming up with innovative materials to create more efficient and durable modular homes.
6. Expanding Market
Although only 14,000 modular homes were built last year, a number of factors are primed to boost modular construction. Customers being able to design, order and then have their modular home delivered is attractive. The market is especially expanding in New England where harsh weather and high labor costs are the norm. Workers can work year round in a comfortable environment. Further, there has been an upsurge in the number of modular homes constructed in areas ravaged by hurricanes, such as New York and New Jersey with Hurricane Sandy in 2012. They can be constructed much more quickly and cheaper than traditional homes. Plus, there is evidence that they are more likely to withstand severe weather in the future. The expanding market means good things for building material manufacturers who decide to work with modular home construction customers.
If you want to learn more about panelized homes, Dwell Magazine has a great guide. Modular Home Owners is another great site.
Check out these two of the leading manufacturers, Blu Homes and Method Homes The beautiful home shown at the top pf this post is a Blu Home.
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