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Michelle Kaufmann has specialized in Modular construction for single-family, multi-family and mixed use design/build projects.
What is Off-site Construction?
A modular home is constructed using three-dimensional boxes or “modules”. The home is built to site-built code, but created in a factory. Interior and exterior sheathing, utility lines, interior partitions and stairs are all completed in the factory. The modules are 90-95% complete when they come off the assembly line in the factory.
After completion in the factory, a modular home is shipped to the site, then attached to a permanent foundation at the building site. Several modules can be connected side-by-side or stacked to create a finished home. When completed, modular homes are composed of several modules fastened together. Once the home is attached, it is considered real estate and appraised against other custom site-built homes.
The Benefits
Integrated, pre-packaged green solutions.
Modular factories can achieve 50% to 75% less waste than the equivalent site-built home through precision cutting and storage capacity.
Exceeds structural requirements, creating a stronger, solid home.
More predictability in time and cost.
Assembly line construction means higher quality.
Worker repetition means worker specialization.
Time frame is greatly reduced.
A climate-controlled factory environment means no moisture and minimizes mold.
Less impact on the building site.
Less risk of time lost and theft on site.
Homes are 90% – 95% complete upon arrival to the site.
Built to all state and local codes, for any climate and any season.
What is the difference between a modular home and other factory-built homes?
Not all factory-built homes are on a level playing field. Among the many classifications of prefabricated homes are modular homes, manufactured homes, and mobile homes. Each of these home types is very different. Although they are all built in a factory, they are built to different building codes, with modular construction at the highest construction/quality level.
Many city and county zoning ordinances restrict the locating of manufactured/mobile homes to limited areas, whereas modular homes are more widely accepted.