When you think of the construction industry, words like "stagnant," "traditional," and " behind the times" might come to mind. But in recent years, there has been a push for innovation in construction, and modular homes are leading the charge.
What are modular homes? Modular homes are homes that are built in a controlled factory environment using high-performance materials and equipment. These homes are then transported to the building site and assembled on a foundation.
Compared to traditional stick-built homes, modular homes are more efficient to construct, require less on-site labour, and can be completed in a shorter time frame. In addition, modular homes are built to exacting standards, which results in a tighter envelope and better indoor air quality.
All of these factors make modular homes a more desirable option for both homebuyers and developers. And as the demand for modular homes continues to grow, so too does the need for innovation in design, materials, and equipment.
Innovation in Design
One area where modular homes are leading the way is in design. Thanks to technological advances, modular home builders can now create highly customized designs that meet the specific needs of their customers. And because modular homes can be built to any size or shape, they can be designed to fit any lot size or topography.
In addition, thanks to 3D modeling software, builders can now create realistic renderings of proposed designs so that customers can get a true sense of what their finished home will look like. This allows for greater collaboration between builder and buyer and results in fewer design changes once construction begins.
Innovation in Materials
Another area where modular homes are setting the standard is in materials. Thanks to advances in manufacturing techniques, builders now have access to a wider range of materials than ever before. And because modular homes are built indoors, builders can take advantage of new materials and finishes that might be damaged by weather conditions if used on a traditional stick-built home.
Some of the most popular materials being used in modular homes today include metal cladding, insulated concrete forms (ICFs), structural insulated panels (SIPs), and cross-laminated timber (CLT). By utilizing these cutting-edge materials, builders are able to create energy-efficient homes that are built to last.
Innovation in Equipment
Finally, innovation in construction would not be possible without innovation in equipment. Today’s builders have access to powerful computers that help them design custom homes, 3D printers that create prototypes of proposed designs, and drones that help with surveying land prior to construction.
And thanks to advancements in robotics, some tasks that were once completed by hand — like framing walls — can now be completed by machines. This not only saves time but also increases accuracy and consistency throughout the construction process.
As we enter a new decade, it's clear that innovation is key to success in the construction industry. Modular homebuilders who embrace new technologies and methods will be well-positioned to meet the demands of an ever-changing marketplace. So if you're looking for a builder who is on the cutting edge of innovation, look no further than a modular home builder.