What are Prefabricated Homes?

A prefabricated home is any kind of building or dwelling that is manufactured in an off-site location and then transported to its final location. prefabricated homes are often referred to as manufactured homes or simply as prefab homes. They are a specific type of prefabricated design related to prefab garages and other prefab structures. While there is a wide range of different prefabricated homes manufactured all over the world, it is a type of construction technique that is sometimes recognised for its links to postmodern or futurist architecture. Prefab homes vary from these kinds of architecturally inspired constructions through to mass market homes which are designed more for cost efficiency and mass production.

The History of Prefabrication

Prefabrication is a technique of building that has been used throughout human history, however the industry that surrounds this kind of construction only began in the early 20th century. Prefabricated homes were used during the gold rush in the United States, and were also prevalent during World War II. Today, the prefabrication industry is involved more in garages and non-domestic buildings, however, an industry in prefab homes continues to exist. The construction of prefab homes differs a lot from the construction of traditional homes, where plumbing and electrical lines are designed and connected after construction has taken place. In contrast to this method, prefab homes involve the connection of plumbing and electrical lines in sections, which are then sealed together upon transportation and delivery.

Manufactured homes are normally purchased from retail sales companies and assembled by local contracting companies. Once it has been assembled, a prefabricated home often goes through a period of 'settling in', where the structure settles with the surrounding earth and environment. Because of this period, most manufactured homes come with a warranty and sometimes require follow up repairs and maintenance. Prefabricated homes are becoming more popular around the world, as consumers in Europe and the United States realise the numerous cost benefits associated with prefab manufacture. A number of architects are also starting to experiment with prefab techniques, in order to create accessible and affordable building designs.