Q. How do modular homes differ from stick-built homes?
A. Modular homes are built in a factory environment in sections, and then trucked to the home site for assembly. While stick-built homes are open to the elements for the duration of construction, modular homes are produced inside a climate-controlled plant and protected against weather prior to shipment. Once set on the foundation and completed, many of today’s modular homes would not be outwardly distinguishable from a traditional stick-built home.
Q. What are the benefits of modular homes over stick-built homes?
A. Modular homes are protected from the weather during much of the construction process, reducing the likelihood of warping or damage. Strict quality control and third party inspections ensure that each home is in conformance with state codes. Engineered jigs guarantee a higher level of precision and square framing from the first nail. Modular homes are designed to stand the rigors or being transported to their final location and are exceptionally strong and well-engineered.
Q. Are these manufactured home?
A. No. Modular homes differ from manufactured homes in a variety of ways. Manufactured homes (more commonly called mobile homes) are built to HUD code and are attached to a steel frame which remains connected to the home. Modular homes are built to current state building codes and once set on the foundation are considered a permanent structure.
Q. How long does a modular home take to build?
A. Typically, the home can be built in as little as three to five days, but additional time is needed to decide on a floor plan, write an order, and schedule production. Once the home is set on the foundation, the builder must finish all final hook-ups and interior work. Generally, once the home has been set you can expect to be in your new home in as little as six weeks.
Q. What does the home include?
A. Sun homes are finished as fully as possible, including carpet or vinyl flooring, drywall and primer, trim, cabinets and most appliances, and plumbing and electrical systems. Connections between modules will be made on-site by the builder who will then finish any remaining items such as where the modules meet.
Q. Can I buy a home directly from Sun?
A. No. Sun Building Systems sells only to our builder base. We can recommend a builder in your area who will provide you with further information including pricing.
Q. But I’m very handy. Can I act as my own builder?
A. Again, Sun only sells homes to our network of independent builders. A good deal of work needs to be done before and after the house is delivered and set.
Q. Can the floor plans be customized?
A. Sun Building Systems offers an in-house engineering department that can customize our standard floor plans to your liking.
Q. I have my own set of plans. Can you build this house for me?
A. Our sales and engineering departments can review your plans to determine if the home can be built as a modular.
Q. How do you get the home to the building site?
A. Sun homes are transported to the site on special carriers by our team of veteran drivers?
Q. What happens when the home gets to the site?
A. Using a crane and experienced field set-up crew, the home is set onto the foundation. The roof is raised and secured into position and the home is “weathered-in” against the elements. Electrical, plumbing and other mechanical connections are made between modules and finish work is completed.
Q. Why don’t you include the price in your literature?
A. Pricing is not included because we only sell the homes to our builder network. Generally, your local builder will give you a price for the entire project, including site work, foundation, utilities and finish work. Talk to your builder to see what the price will include.