Some Central Florida active-adult communities offer modular homes. In case you don't know, they're a type of prefabricated building. The different sections of the home (known as modules) are factory built and delivered to the home site, where the modules are installed on the foundation and attached together in a chosen configuration.
Here at Central Florida 55 Plus Realtors, we get asked pretty often if modular homes are a good option. Understandably, knowing the process might make you wonder just how sturdy they are, and whether they're reliable enough to weather the Central Florida weather for the long haul. Again, entirely understandable when you think of those summer thunderstorms and the threats of topical storms and hurricanes.
Modular Homes Are Built to Last
Surprisingly to many, modular homes are more durable than standard-built homes. This is largely because they have to be transported in partially assembled states, so they need to hold up on the road. Prefabricated buildings are strictly regulated and manufactured to high official standards and codes.
When it comes to building modular homes, small construction details make a big difference in crafting buildings that hold up even better than traditionally built homes. For example, modular home builders use screws instead of nails, reinforce joints with industrial-strength glue, and incorporate an average of 10 to 20 percent more lumber.
In fact, FEMA conducted a study back in 1993 in Dade County, Florida after Hurricane Andrew devastated the area. It found that modular homes (as well as masonry homes) held up better than other types of home construction.
Modular Homes Are Popular in Florida
Being built for transport and on-site assembly means modular homes have high wind resistance. This has made them enormously popular in Florida—and all around the coastal southeastern United States for that matter—where high winds can be a significant concern. Most often, modular homes in Florida are single-level houses, providing maximum durability and reliability in the face of high wind speeds.
This style of construction also offers an emphasis on space and energy efficiency. Designs and configurations are created with a close eye on maximizing the use of space, providing highly functional living and entertaining areas. Energy efficiency is also prioritized, another sought-after feature in a hot and humid locale where energy bills can really climb, and one that also tends to draw outdoors enthusiasts with concern for their environment and carbon footprint.
The Moral of the Story
The moral is simple and straightforward: Don't be turned off by modular houses. A lot of home buyers pass up great opportunities for highly affordable homes in fantastic locations just because of misconceptions about prefabricated buildings.
But they're just that—misconceptions. These houses are just as safe and reliable, and even more so, than many traditionally built homes. And sure, they require some care and upkeep to retain value, but so do standard construction houses.
