Manufactured vs. Modular: What’s the Difference?
Modular homes and manufactured homes are both types of prefabricated housing, but there are significant differences.
Modular refers to the method of construction used to build a home. Modular homes are just like site-built houses and provide the same -or better-level of quality you expect in a home; however, all major components and systems are assembled inside of a factory. Modular homes are virtually identical to site-built homes in terms of look, code requirements, and financing. They are appraised using the same methodology as site-built homes and can be financed using conventional home loans.
Manufactured homes are built according to a federal building code created and enforced by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD,) which requires homes to be constructed on a chassis. Alternatively, modular homes are constructed to the same state, local or regional building codes as site-built homes. They are affixed to permanent, masonry foundations and cannot be moved.
Learn more about different types of prefab homes here and Quartz modular homes here.
Manufactured home with visible chassis.
Modular home with visible permanent foundation.