Prefabricated homes: benefits and what to expect

Also known as a prefabricated or kit home, a prefabricated home, as the name implies, is a house that is partially or entirely built in a factory and then transported to the site where it will be installed. But what are the advantages of this increasingly popular structure? Vistoo answers the question! 

The advantages of prefabricated homes 

Manufactured largely in factories under controlled conditions, prefabricated homes are an innovation in residential construction, offering many notable advantages compared to the methods of building new homes on a conventional building site.

Shorter construction times

One of the main advantages of prefab homes is how quickly they are built. Typically built in modules or panels preassembled under controlled factory conditions, prefabricated homes are simply constructed on site to form the final structure, significantly reducing assembly times compared to conventional construction. 

Factory construction can also reduce delays caused by weather conditions and other external factors, and optimize labor efficiency.

More control over related costs

Not only can prefabricated homes save you time, they can also save you money: factory-built construction minimizes labor and project management costs on site. 

The construction of prefabricated homes requires detailed planning before the manufacturing process begins. Consequently, it is easier to anticipate material, labor and equipment requirements, helping to avoid unexpected expenses. What's more, by prefabricating house components under controlled conditions, materials are used more efficiently, limiting waste and thus reducing the costs associated with purchasing and managing surplus materials. To learn more about the costs, read our article on the price of prefabricated houses.

Consistent quality

Prefabricated homes are distinguished by their often superior construction quality. Since it is manufactured in a controlled environment, this type of property must comply with very precise measurement and finishing criteria, reducing the possibility of errors and guaranteeing consistent, irreproachable quality. 

Different types of prefabricated home construction

When we talk about prefabricated homes, we don't necessarily mean compromising in the type of construction. In fact, there are several different types of prefabricated homes, each offering its own specific features to meet the different needs of buyers.

Panel homes

Panel homes offer more flexibility, being factory-built in panel form, including walls, floors and the roof, before being assembled on site to create the home's structure.

Modular homes

Renowned for their ease and customizability, modular homes are factory-built starting from complete modules, including walls, floors, the roof, electrical installations and even plumbing. These modules are then assembled on site to form the complete home.

Mobile homes

Entirely factory-built, mobile homes are transported directly to the site in a single module. Unlike prefabricated panelized or modular homes, mobile homes are usually installed on temporary foundations and can be moved around, hence their name. They also have the advantage of being even more affordable.

The durability of prefabricated homes

Generally speaking, prefabricated homes are made from durable materials and are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Like traditionally built homes, they are manufactured to quality standards and are subject to inspection and regulations. This ensures that pre-engineered homes meet the required safety and durability standards. 

Where do I start when buying a prefabricated home?

You'll probably agree that prefabricated homes offer a modern, efficient housing solution. If this is what you're looking for, you may be wondering how to begin the purchasing process.

The first step would be to find your lot. Before starting the process and choosing your model home, it's essential you first think about choosing your site, as you'll need to take into account several criteria established by the municipality before assembling your home there. 

We know that undertaking such a process, searching for a lot, and navigating all the specifications required by the city can be complicated. And finding a turnkey home can be an even faster solution if you're looking for a property that's ready to move into. That's why Vistoo, your real estate partner in Canada, is here to help. Our experts will guide you through the project to find your home!