LITTLE ROCK — In Prefabulous ($25, Taunton Press), Sheri Koones describes six types of prefabrication systems in addition to structural insulated panels (SIPs): modular, panelized, log, timber frame, concrete and steel. She also points out that many prefab houses are hybrids, using two or more types.
Modular houses are often confused with mobile homes.
Both are built quickly in factories with controlled environments.
A manufactured house must meet the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development building codes.They are built on steel beams with wheels under each section as a one- to three-section home.
Modular must meet state, county and local codes. They're built more solidly than manufactured homes, using up to 30 percent more building materials.
They'retransported to a site in large units that are lifted from the transport by crane, set on a pre-built foundation (or atop another module) and fastened together.
Panelized prefabs can be wood panels built with traditionally framed wall, floor and roof segments. See the main story for a description of structural insulated panels.
Most log houses are fabricated in a factory or yard, by machine or by hand, then assembled on site.
Timber frame houses often feature soaring ceilings. Most are factory built using computerized measuring and cutting equipment.
Concrete prefab panels are easy to create in colors and forms, virtually weather-proof and bug-proof and particularly strong when reinforced with steel.
Prefabricated steel framing is an alternative to wood because of its stability and longevity, Koones says.
HomeStyle, Pages 48 on 10/27/2007