Difference between Modular & Mobile Construction

Oftentimes, the terms modular construction and mobile construction are either mentioned in the same breath or used interchangeably. If you’re reading this article, you are probably considering one of these two options for a project that you have and maybe you want more clarity. Well, you’re definitely in the right place.

Let’s get started!

What is Modular Construction?

Modular construction is a cutting-edge method of construction whose beginnings can be traced back as early as 1908 during the emergence of “Catalogue Homes”. Through the years, modular construction has been refined to the practical and efficient solution that it is today. 

As opposed to traditional construction wherein the entire building is made on-site, modular construction involves the pre-engineering and prefabrication of sections of a building called “modules.” These modules are made with high-quality materials and are assembled under controlled factory conditions. Afterwards, the modules are transported to the intended site, they are stacked together or placed side-by-side then fastened in place with strong inter-module connections on top of a permanent foundation.

This method of construction can be used to make residential or commercial structures. 

What is Mobile Construction?

Mobile construction, on the other hand, is the process by which a mobile structure (typically a mobile home) is prefabricated off-site under controlled factory conditions. Mobile structures are built with one or more permanently-attached chassis which allows them to be easily transported in one or more sections. 

Mobile homes are transported via tow or truck to a semi-permanent or permanent location. For this reason, these homes are also known as residential caravans, static caravans, or house trailers - and are distinguished from travel trailers which are meant to be used only as a temporary home. 

Once the mobile home has reached its new location, which could be a rented/owned lot, the wheels are typically removed and the home is then fastened or anchored into place. 

Mobile construction almost always pertains to mobile homes. However, mobile construction can also be used to make office trailers. 

Why Are These Two Terms Confused With Each Other?

Actually, it’s not just a matter between the terms modular homes and mobile homes. The cause of the confusion is that there’s a third term that comes into play: manufactured homes. 

In the United States, the term “manufactured homes” is used to pertain to mobile homes that have been constructed after the year 1976. This year is important because it was when the National Mobile Home Construction and Safety Act was passed, thereby setting standards for the design, construction, fire safety, thermal protection, and etc. for mobile homes. 

Meanwhile, you will find that some Canadian articles/resources sometimes use the term “manufactured homes” to encompass both mobile homes and modular homes. This could be technically correct since both of these homes are manufactured off-site. But in other resources still, you will find that “manufactured homes” is a synonym for just mobile homes that carry the CSA label.  

Because of the varying use of terminologies, it can get confusing. But in a nutshell, for research purposes, you may do well to stick to the terms modular home and mobile home - since “manufactured home” could mean different things depending on where it is used. So in this article, we’re sticking to just these two terms.

Now that you are well equipped against any term confusions that you might encounter in the future, let’s dive right into the differences between modular construction and mobile construction. 

What Are The Differences Between Modular and Mobile Construction?

1. Process & Transportation

Both modular home construction and mobile home construction happens off-site and within controlled factory settings. Both of them are also transported to the site where they will be installed. 

Modules, however, do not have wheels so they are transported using trailer trucks. Mobile homes, on the other hand, can be transported via trailer trucks or can be towed. 

Once on-site, mobile homes can be rolled into place because of their wheels - and once in place, the wheels can be removed. Meanwhile, modules are always carried off the truck using a crane to be placed where it needs to be.

2. The Materials Used

The materials used for the construction of modules are similar to those used in traditional construction. Meanwhile, mobile homes may be engineered to be lighter. For example, modules can have concrete flooring while mobile homes typically have wooden flooring. 

3.  Standards Used

Modular homes are built according to Canadian Standards Association A-277. Meanwhile, mobile homes are built according to Canadian Standards Association Z-240.

4. The Applications & The Size of The Structure 

Modular construction is sweeping across the globe as a more practical and efficient housing solution. However, modular construction is not confined to building bungalow houses. Since the modules can be stacked together, modular buildings can reach towering heights. For example, the tallest modular apartment right now is a stunning 32-storey building named 461 Dean, a residential tower nestled in New York City. 

Mobile construction, on the other hand, is typically used for making one-storey mobile homes or trailer offices.

5. Permanence & Durability

A mobile home can stay mobile for as long as the owner wishes. After all, that steel chassis is not going anywhere. Therefore, mobile homes typically do not have a permanent foundation and are instead rested on concrete slabs or pylons and fastened into place. 

The lifespan of a mobile home is around 55 years - but above-average maintenance can extend this. 

Meanwhile, modular homes are typically built with an intent to keep them in place indefinitely. Therefore, modular homes usually have a permanent, concrete-poured foundation or maybe even a basement - similar to traditionally-built homes.   

And because modular homes are built with the same high-grade materials as traditionally-constructed homes, and affixed to its foundation quite similarly their lifespans are roughly the same. The average lifespan of a typical home is around 200 years but this can be extended indefinitely with above-average maintenance. 

6. Resale Value

Because modular construction is a newer method of construction, it typically does not have the resale value of a traditionally-built home - supposing that all else is equal. This is mainly because of the lack of awareness around this construction method. 

Modular houses, however, have a better resale value than most mobile homes - supposing that all else is equal and both are on a permanent location. 

It is important to note that a mobile home that is NOT on owned land (e.g. is in a park trailer) will depreciate in value over time. 

How Can I Get In Touch With Experts?

You may still be wondering which is the better solution for your project. Just know that expert advice is only a few clicks away. xL Architects is a Toronto-based architectural firm that specializes in steel frame modular construction and laneway suites. If you have any questions about modular construction and how it ‘stacks up’ against mobile construction, we’d love to connect with you. 

Contact us today and let’s get started!