Prefab home additions are prefabricated sections, typically made off-site in a factory setting and then transported to the installation site. They’re also called modular homes or modular additions.
These additions can range from small, single-room extensions to entire second floors and can be an attractive alternative to the traditional methods of adding space to an existing home.
If you’re interested in finding out more about prefab home additions and if they’re worth the investment, keep reading and find out!
What Types Of Prefab Home Additions Are Out There?
Prefab home additions come in various shapes and sizes, making them suitable for a wide range of projects. Common types include prefabricated walls, roof trusses, stairs and balconies, sunrooms, garages, and even entire additional stories.
Prefabricated walls are usually made from materials such as wood, vinyl, or plastic and are designed to fit into frames that can be easily attached to existing walls.
- Roof trusses are pre-made sections of beams and rafters, which come in different sizes to accommodate various roof designs.
- Stairs and balconies can also be prefabricated and constructed off-site before being shipped to the home for installation on an existing structure.
- Sunrooms, garages, prefab studio, and an entire second story addition can also be ordered in a prefabricated format.
- A prefab guest house is a modular construction that saves you a lot of time and money, but it might not be as reliable as a traditional building method.
Are Prefab Home Additions Worth It?
Prefab home additions can provide homeowners with an attractive, cost-effective way of increasing the size and value of their homes without going through the process of a traditional construction project.
Moreover, prefab home additions can provide a quick and easy way to add extra living space to your home in as little time as possible. Since the sections are pre-made off-site, installation time is usually much shorter than with traditional methods, which can benefit those who need the extra space in a hurry.
The quality and durability of prefab home additions are also impressive, as they are made from strong and reliable materials that can withstand the elements for many years to come.
Prefab Home Additions Cost
The cost of prefab home additions will depend on various factors, such as the size and complexity of the addition, the materials being used, and the labor involved.
Generally speaking, smaller and simpler additions can cost anywhere from $10,000 – $50,000, while larger and more complex projects may reach upwards of $100,000 or more.
It’s important to note that these estimates are just ballpark figures and may vary based on the specifics of each project.
Pros And Cons Of Prefab Home Additions
It’s easy to see the pros and cons of prefab home additions, but let’s break them down.
Pros
- Prefab home additions are cost-effective, with smaller and simpler projects costing anywhere from $10,000 - $50,000 and larger and more complex projects reaching upwards of $100,000 or more, so you won't need a construction loan.
- Prefabricated sections are made in a factory setting off-site, meaning installation time is much shorter than with traditional construction methods.
- Prefab home additions are typically made from strong and reliable materials, ensuring a long-lasting addition to your home that can withstand the elements for many years to come.
Pros
- While prefab home additions provide an easier and quicker construction process, they do not always allow for much customization or personalization.
- The cost of prefab home additions may be higher than traditional construction in some cases, depending on the specifics of the project.
- Prefabricated sections must be transported to the installation site, which can add additional costs and complications to your project. Here, you'll need a crane and set crew to move around the pieces.
DIY Or Hiring A Professional Contractor For Your Home Addition
When it comes to adding a home addition, there are many benefits to working with a professional contractor rather than attempting DIY.
Professional contractors have the experience, skill, and expertise to do the job correctly and safely. They also help you choose the right materials to suit your needs and budget and provide guidance on any local building codes or regulations you may need to be aware of.
While DIY has benefits, it is important to understand that any construction project carries risks, so having a professional contractor oversee the project can help reduce the likelihood of costly mistakes or delays.
Additionally, some home additions may require specialized tools, materials, and knowledge that the average DIY homeowner may not have.
DIY Or Hiring A Professional Contractor For Your Home Addition
Prefab home additions refer to modular home additions that are built in a factory and then delivered to your house so you can install them to your already existing space. A modular addition will save you a lot of time and money, but you’ll limit the addition to what the manufacturer offers.
Do we recommend a prefab addition or a modular home? Not really.
You don’t know how they’re made, who makes them, and if they meet the required building codes for additions and new builds. Sure, some brands out there might deliver great quality on their products, but how would you know?
At MGS, we can build you an addition from the ground up. You’ll see everything that goes into your project and you’ll be able to call all the important shots. Besides, you’ll have full control to customize it however you’d like!
If you want a home addition project that you can fully control, give us a ring at (571) 577-9554 or request a free quote and we’ll circle back!