Go “green” the modular way

Modular, factory-constructed housing is a concept that is taking on new relevance in today’s world – one that is becoming a viable option for the commercial real estate developer who recognizes the appeal and importance of so-called “green” construction.

The emergence of modular homes as a green-conscious alternative to traditional stick-built homes has a strong foundation. Since most modular homes are built on property formerly occupied by traditional construction, the teardown-rebuild element allows the re-use of land, an environmentally friendly element that is not lost on the many homeowners who are making modular an increasingly popular construction choice. 

The efficiency elements of modular homes are across the board – beginning in the factories where they are built under controlled conditions. Wood for modular construction is delivered in pre-cut lengths, reducing waste from the get-go. Constructed with site-engineered components in a highly controlled factory atmosphere, modular homes are far less likely to suffer from mold or water damage.  

Modular homes are typically first framed and then wired before dry wall is added.  This process provides for increased insulation capability.

Factory production translates into less waste in general, a reduced chance of error and a much more predictable completion timeframe than traditional house construction. Not vulnerable to weather conditions like stick-built homes, the cost of modular construction can be set in stone, unlike their traditional counterparts whose prices are often increased to account for replacement materials or additional labor.  And since modular housing must be shipped to an assembly site, materials tend to be stronger, yet another “green” element. 

 Increasingly, modular home builders take site selection into consideration when designing a factory-built home.  Since many factory-built homes are assembled in the Northeast, aspects considered include heating and cooling, natural light maximization and water efficiency. .

Modular construction also eliminates the need for multiple trips to a site, reducing gas emissions, not to mention transportation costs that are often built into site-built construction.  The speed of assembly – usually one or two days – is a cost-saving factor for the modular home builder who in turn can pass that savings along to the home buyer. Those savings can translate into more money spent on energy efficient water heaters or appliances.

Many designers and builders of modular homes, including Realty Development Associates, have been accepted into the Energy Star Certified Builders program.

This rating is earned by builders who adhere to stringent energy-efficient guidelines established by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. A builder is certified upon independent verification that their construction meets these EPA guidelines. ENERGY STAR certified homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20-30% more efficient than standard homes.

A rigorous certification process is required to achieve this energy efficient standard, one that is critical in these times of rising energy costs and an increasing need and desire to think “green.”

Energy Star qualified homes include a variety of “tried-and-true” energy-efficient features which contribute to improved home quality and homeowner comfort, and to lower energy demand and reduced air pollution, including effective insulation; high-performance windows; tight construction and ductwork; efficient heating and cooling equipment; and efficient products.

Commitment to energy-efficient construction is critical during times of rising energy costs.  The modular home industry’s involvement in the Energy Star program not only speaks to the quality of homes it builds, but also to the needs of home owners and the environment.

The modular home industry has long recognized the costs and challenges associated with the purchase of a home.  With real estate and land costs continuing to escalate and energy efficiency on the mind of the nation, home buyers seeking an environmentally sound alternative to traditional stick-built construction could benefit from giving modular housing the “green” light.

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