In this episode of Assembly Required, three different homeowners with three unique styles each take the plunge and go for the speed of a modular home. Check out home construction on the factory floor, the onsite delivery and the one day set when only 'assembly' is 'required.'
The Mohler FamilyModular homeowners are always excited on the day of construction. Their homes are delivered by truck (figure A), and usually set in a day’s time (figure B). Jeff and Sandra Mohler had no problem waking up early the day their home was brought to their Baltimore, Maryland build site.
Modular homeowners spend more time in the planning stage than any other part of the process (figure C). Gone are the days of the cookie-cutter prefab homes...everything now is designed from scratch (figure D). Even though Sandra and Jeff are just starting out, the affordability of a modular home allowed them to get more house than they ever imagined...3,600 square feet being exact! Factory experts make sure that everything is in place before delivery (i.e., drywall, cabinets and bathtub) (figure E). The Mohler’s modular home left the factory 90% complete.
Installation is more complicated than it sounds. A builder needs an eye for every detail (figure F). It starts at the foundation. Before modules are set, builder Hugh Hambruch ensures that the foundation is level and within 1/2" on width and 1/4" on length. A crane lifts the modules into place (figure G) and spreader cables secure each module in two locations to evenly distribute the weight. An inspection is done to see if every box is flush with the concrete foundation (figure H). There is a lot to be done by sundown. With five modules left, the crew gets to work stripping the module units.
Quick Facts- A modular home can have a poured concrete, prefab pre-cast, or block foundation.
- A modular home's construction cycle can take two thirds less time compared to stick-building.
RESOURCES :
Nationwide Custom Homes
Website: www.nationwide-homes.com
Manufactured Housing Institute
Website: www.manufacturedhousing.org
Building Systems Council
National Association of Home Builders
Website: www.nahb.com
GUESTS :
Tim McGrath
McGrath Custom Homes, LLC
Authorized Builder for Nationwide Custom Homes
Phone: 703-787-0307
Website: www.mcgrathcustomhomes.com
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