Prefabricated or modular house? Know the differences

The construction of prefabricated houses has experienced significant growth in Spain in recent years, mainly because it offers very interesting advantages over traditional construction: fewer construction errors, less material waste, faster construction and often ensures better energy efficiency.

Although it is a growing trend, there are still many doubts about it. One question we receive very often is what is the difference between a prefabricated house and a modular house, and that's why I have set out to answer this question in a simple and straightforward way.

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What is a prefabricated house?

When we talk about prefabricated houses we are actually referring to a category of construction methods, which includes modular houses. (🤯)

If any of the parts of the house were manufactured in advance in a factory, before being assembled on site, then we are talking about a prefabricated house.

Unlike a traditionally built house, a prefabricated house is largely made in the factory and then moved in pieces or modules for final assembly on site.

This is the theory, in practice, most people when they talk about prefabricated houses are actually referring to prefabricated houses with panels. These panels can be made of concrete or wood, and are cut exactly to fit together according to the design of the house. This type of construction is also known as 2D prefabrication, because the elements of the house are transferred in two dimensions.

Take a look at this video where we show you the process of building a prefabricated house with CLT wood panels.

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What is a modular home?

As I have already explained, modular houses are a type of prefabricated house. In this case, the house is produced almost entirely in the factory.

Unlike prefabricated houses with panels, prefabricated modular houses are moved to the site in modules that are 90-95% finished and are therefore also called 3D prefabrication. The modules are complete spaces, whether a bedroom, bathroom or living room, which are stacked together to create the desired configuration - like Lego blocks.

5 things to consider about prefabricated and modular homes

Now that we are clear about prefabricated houses and modular houses, here are 5 key aspects to consider if you are thinking of building a prefabricated house with panels or a prefabricated modular house:

1. Panel prefabrication tends to cost less than modular prefabrication, mainly because of the cost of shipping panels vs. modules.
2. Modular prefabrication is designed to add or remove spaces when desired, making the process easier if you plan to expand your home in the short term.
3. Prefabrication with panels makes it possible to build more open spaces, as it does not have the limitation of defined spaces as modular prefabrication does.
4. Both prefabricated houses with panels and prefabricated modular houses imply having the design well defined before starting to make them, so last minute changes, although not impossible, mean a considerable cost.
5. The construction requirements for either option are exactly the same as for a conventional masonry house, as they require foundations.

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At I'm in we design and build custom prefabricated houses with CLT wood panels or light frame, so if you finally decide for this type of construction we would love to talk to you 😉 Schedule a video call with us and let's start shaping your project.