Prefabricated homes, also known as ‘prefab’ or ‘modular’ homes, currently represent around three percent of houses being built in Australia. But all that could be about to change. The government is keen to encourage developers to use them and to cut red tape that is holding them back, and they are rapidly growing in popularity among the house-buying public.
Prefab homes are those which are mainly constructed in a factory and then transported to their final location instead of being built on site. There are actually a few different types, but this article will look at the general advantages that they all offer over traditional, stick-built houses.
Energy efficiency
When the components of prefab homes are assembled in their factories, they need to be reinforced and robust enough to survive the journey to the final house’s location. The resilient, high-quality construction it takes to do this also gives them the benefit of being resilient to natural disasters and highly energy efficient. Tight seams and strong, thick windows help insulate houses and cut energy bills.
Quick to build
The main advantage of prefab homes over stick-built ones is that buyers don’t have to wait months to move in. Less time and labour is required on site because the components are prebuilt and only need to be assembled there, and this reduced time also lowers the chance of encountering severe weather, illnesses, or other factors that could cause delays.
Affordability
Prefabricated homes in Brisbane and other major cities can cost considerably less than stick-built ones, mainly because it takes fewer people working less time to get them up. However, it’s important to remember that there is also the transportation costs to consider with prefab homes, and depending on the distance to where the components are manufactured these costs can add up fast.
Good for remote locations
If you do not live in an urban area but instead live somewhere way out in the sticks, finding a contractor willing to travel such a long distance to build your home in the traditional way can be a challenge. But because prefab homes arrive mostly intact and take far less time to assemble, contractors are much more likely to accept the job.
Less environmental damage
Prefab homes waste fewer materials than traditional homes, and their assembly disturbs the environment and wildlife at the building site much less.
Conclusion
Better for the environment, more energy efficient, and quicker to build, it’s easy to see why prefab homes are gaining in popularity. The misconception that they are like mobile homes is being alleviated by appealing new designs and excellent craftsmanship.
