How Much Do Hurricane Proof Modular Homes Cost? (2023)

• Typical range:180.000 bis 360.000 US-Dollar
• National Average:270.000 $

For those living in storm-prone areas, the safety and well-being of home and family is important. As the demand for strong, hurricane-proof construction increases, research has shown that prefab homes can withstand damage from hurricanes better than traditional timber homes. Modern modular homes are typically constructed of reinforced concrete or steel, which can withstand high winds and windborne debris. CorrespondingHomeAdvisor, Hurricane-proof modular homes range in price from $180,000 to $360,000, with many homeowners spending around $270,000. The final price of a hurricane-proof modular home depends on the location, number of bedrooms, floor plan, materials, and additional customizations.

Modular building is an inexpensive way to build a house compared to traditional house building. Prefab homes come in many different sizes and styles including Cape Cod, ranch, two story, tiny home, townhouse, cottage, duplex, modern, French country, log home and more. They usually take less time to build and are cheaper than custom homes. Affordable manufactured homes range from $40 to $80 per square foot for the base price, in addition to the cost of the property and any additional fees associated with the project. Installing and furnishing a hurricane-proof modular home can add about $30 to $60 per square foot to material costs. Homeowners interested in a modular home should keep in mind that base pricing sometimes includes the delivery and placement of the modular sections using a crane, but many companies charge additional fees for these services. The final price typically includes land preparation, foundation construction, permit fees, utility construction, installation and buttoning (completing construction on site and undertaking other finishing work) and all customization. Homeowners need to check with the builder to see what is included in their prices. This guide covers important factors that affect the cost of hurricane-proof modular homes, additional costs and considerations, different types of modular homes, the advantages of modular homes, and some common questions about modular homes and the construction and installation process.

What are hurricane-proof modular homes?

What is a modular home that is storm proof? Hurricane-proof modular homes are built from reinforced concrete or steel. The roof is usually made of asphalt or metal shingles to provide flexibility and strength to withstand high, hurricane-force winds and windborne debris. Stormproof modular homes often have hurricane brackets or straps that attach the roof to the walls to prevent damage from a storm. Some hurricane-proof modular home builders use steel frames instead of wood frames. The steel frames are not only more resistant to wind damage, but also easier to assemble. Prefabricated modular homes are built in a factory and then shipped to the site to be bolted to the foundation, connected to utility lines, and permanently erected.

Because modular homes are built in a controlled environment and are typically bolted or glued together rather than stapled or nailed, modular construction exhibits increased stability and strength compared to a rod-built home. Some hurricane-proof homes are made of cork, laminated wood, insulation, layers of plywood, or structurally insulated panels (SIP) to withstand winds of at least 185 miles per hour. To make the construction even more storm-proof, homeowners usually install impact-resistant storm windows or shutters to protect the house from storms.Storm shutters costleast, but can be unsightly unless the homeowner pays to have them fitted.hurricane window costmore, but they offer impact-resistant protection from gale force winds and flying debris. All stormproof modular homes should have a watertight and airtight floor, roof and wall system. Ask your health insurance companyhow to get hurricane insurancecan help reassure homeowners that they are financially protected should their home be affected. If homeowners are concerned that their modular home might suffer storm damage, they can contact the manufacturer and see what type of policy they offer in the event of a hurricane.

factors in the calculationCost of Hurricane Proof Modular Homes

The thought of living through a hurricane can be stressful. Preparing for the inevitable can help homeowners have peace of mind, and buying a storm-proof modular home can be an important step in the journey of being prepared. Prices for a hurricane-proof modular home may vary from the national average due to home size, style, floor plan, brand, delivery fees, ground preparation, foundation type, installation, local labor rates, utility construction, taxes, and permit fees.

size

The base price for a modular home is typically $40 to $80 per square foot, or $100 to $200 per square foot including installation. It is important to check with the builder what is included in the base price of the home. Some manufacturers do not include delivery; others deliver at the base price but do not include additional services such as installation or customization. Below are some common square footage for a modular home and their average cost.

Some pre-built base model kits can be as low as $30 per square foot, but typically range from $40 to $80 per square foot. Some modular home builders sell and supply turnkey kits with the proviso that the homeowner completes the installation and the rest of the work, while others hire their own subcontractors to complete the construction and installation. Homeowners are advised never to assume that kit houses will be installed by the builder; It is important to clarify exactly what is included in the base price to avoid misunderstandings. Below are some popular prefab home types, square footage and their average price.

stories

Modular homes can have multiple stories, and homeowners need to keep in mind that multi-story modular homes come in pieces rather than one- or two-piece units. This will increase the overall cost of the modular home as the builders will have to build the home on site, increasing labor costs. Below are the average prices for 1-story, 2-story and 3-story modular houses.

• • • 1-storey modular house.A basic 1 story modular home typically costs around $76,500; for a home that is between 800 and 1,500 square feet, it costs $40,000 to $113,000. A custom single story modular home costs an average of $186,000 while the cost of this type of structure ranges from $96,000 to $276,000. A one-story modular home can be built larger than 1,500 square feet, but the cost can be significantly greater than the cost of adding another floor since the roof and foundation are the two most expensive parts of a modular home.
    • 2 story modular house.A standard two-story modular home costs about $131,500. A home between 1,500 and 2,500 square feet costs between $75,000 and $188,000. A custom two-story modular home ranges from $180,000 to $575,000, with many homeowners spending $377,500. This type of modular home is very popular as it is an affordable option for larger families. Adding a second floor can save money because the footing area and roof size do not increase like adding square footage to a one-story home would.
    • 3 story modular house.Homeowners can expect to pay $206,500 for a basic 3-story modular home and between $150,000 and $263,000 for a 2,000- to 3,500-square-foot option. A custom 3-story home costs from $375,000 to $800,000, with the national average at $587,500. This type of modular home costs more than a 1- or 2-story home due to the multiple pieces that need to be transported, installed, and constructed. Building a 3-story modular home is a time-consuming project that will increase labor costs.

Style

Hurricane proof modular homes can be built in a variety of styles. The total cost per square foot depends on the size of the house, the number of floors, and the complexity of the building rather than the style. Some popular types of modular homes are tiny house, townhouse, cottage, ranch, log home, duplex, and single family home. Each of these styles is discussed in a section below.

Building plan

Just like traditional stick houses, modular houses can have different numbers of bedrooms. The more bedrooms a house has, the longer it takes to build and the more expensive it becomes. Below are the cost of prefabricated and custom built modular homes by number of bedrooms.

• • • 1 bedroom.A prefabricated one-bedroom modular home between 800 and 1,000 square feet costs about $57,500, and a custom-built home of a similar size costs about $163,000. A modular prefab home built with budget-friendly materials costs as little as $40,000, while a custom home that uses quality materials and lots of extras costs $230,000.
    • 2 Bedrooms.A 2 bedroom modular prefab home between 1,000 and 1,200 square feet averages $70,000 but ranges from $50,000 to $90,000. A custom 2 bedroom home costs between $120,000 and $276,000 with many homeowners spending $198,000.
    • 3 or more bedrooms.An inexpensive 3 bedroom prefabricated modular home costs $75,000 while an average 3 or more bedroom prefab home costs an average of $169,000. A high-quality 5-bedroom modular prefab home costs $263,000, and a custom-built home of the same size averages $500,000.

Marke

The cost of hurricane-proof modular homes can vary depending on the brand, number of bedrooms, size, and additional customizations. It typically takes around 4 to 6 weeks to complete the installation of a modular home from delivery to final inspection. Many builders of modular houses indicate a period of 4 to 6 months from the moment the contract is signed until the end of the installation. Homeowners should keep in mind that shipping delays and material shortages will increase the estimated time for delivery and installation. Below are the average costs of some of thebest modular home builders.

• • • Clayton modular homes.Clayton's modular homes range in price from $30,000 to $200,000, or $70 to $200 per square foot, depending on style, size, and shipping distance. Clayton offers more than 175 different floor plans for homes ranging from 1,000 to 2,280 square feet. The final price usually includes delivery, installation, construction and finishes. The company, which sells homes nationwide, offers other customizations at an additional cost, such as: B. an additional bathtub, changed kitchen cabinets and an additional bedroom.
    • Champion modular homes.Homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $90 to $140 per square foot for a Champion modular home. The company has over 2,000 pre-designed modular home plans ranging in size from 400 to 2,400 square feet. Available nationwide, Champion Modular Homes can facilitate the installation of a foundation, obtaining permits, planning utility connections and preparing the property.
    • Kent houses.The cost of a modular home in Kent ranges from $42,000 to $250,000, or $70 to $100 per square foot. The prices include delivery, installation and connection to the utility network; Site preparation is available at an additional cost. Kent modular homes range from 600 to 2,500 square feet with over 100 customizable floor plans. The company, which sells homes in Maine and Canada, offers a comprehensive warranty on construction and materials for the first year of ownership.
    • Pratt houses.Modular Pratt homes range in price from $39,900 to $218,400, or $65 to $100 per square foot, not including the cost of on-site finishing. The company that sells homes in the South has homes ranging in size from 1,500 to 3,000 square feet and offers more than 60 floor plans. Pratt also offers a 7-year warranty on the modular house structure and appliances.
    • Huntington houses.Huntington Homes modular options are available in the Northeast and range from $110 to $275 per square foot, including delivery and installation. With over 100 different floor plans ranging from 624 to 4,632 square feet, Huntington Homes offers turnkey installation services.

Delivery

The cost to deliver a hurricane-proof modular home ranges from $5 to $10 per square foot, or an average of $3,000 to $12,000 or more. The delivery fee depends on the number of modular pieces, size and delivery distance and includes transportation, use of a crane for transportation and installation, and a crew to complete the build. Delivery costs usually do not include local finishing fees.

land preparation

The cost of site and land preparation for a modular home ranges from $4,000 to $11,000, with the amount of preparation varying depending on the condition of the area. Sites with extensive rocks and trees take longer to prepare than sites with open terrain. The final preparation cost will depend on the amount of excavation, land clearing and leveling, and grading required. Below are some property and site preparation activities and their average costs.

foundation type

Modular homes require space between the floor and subfloor for heating and cooling, electrical and plumbing connections. Building a foundation for a modular home costs anywhere from $6,000 to $20,000, or $7 to $30 per square foot, with many homeowners spending around $8,500. The total price depends on the type of foundation, the size of the modular house and the location. Prices for a crawl space start at $6,000 and a basement foundation can cost up to $44,500 depending on the size. Below are some popular foundation types and the average cost ranges.

• • • Pillar and beam foundation.Typically, pier and beam foundations take only a day to construct and cost between $3,000 and $8,000, or $7 to $11 per square foot. They are typically the most budget-friendly and popular base option for modular homes.
    • crawlspace.The average cost to build a crawl space under a modular home ranges from $6,300 to $16,300, or $7 to $14 per square foot. A crawl space is similar to a pier and beam foundation but provides additional storage space underneath the house.
    • basement foundation.The average price to install a basement in a modular home ranges from $20,000 to $29,000 or more, or $33 to $47 per square foot, depending on size. Many homeowners prefer a basement as it increases property value and increases square footage.
    • Stilt and pile foundation.For modular homes that are near water in storm-prone areas or that are prone to flooding, stilt and pile foundations are common. This type of foundation raises the house one more floor off the ground and can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $30,000, or $11 to $19 per square foot.

installation and work

The modular home installation costs between $10,000 and $50,000, or $5 to $35 per square foot. The total installation price depends on the size of the house, the number of modular parts and the addition of customizations. After the home is delivered and placed on the foundation, a contractor installs the modular home in a process known as "buttoning up." Buttoning involves connecting the modular pieces; installing stairs and external features; Completing the installation of drywall and all interior fittings; finishing of woodwork and moldings; assembly and connection devices; Adjusting windows and doors for a tight seal; Completion of external work, such as B. the installation of gutters, cladding and roofing; and inspecting the home to meet all codes. Installation costs usually include labor costs, but homeowners should check with the manufacturer and contractor to confirm this.

utility construction

Installing utilities for plumbing, heating and cooling, electricity and water can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $25,000 depending on the complexity of the design. Modular homes in rural areas that use a water well, septic tank, or solar power cost more to build utilities. Below are some common utility installation costs.

Steer

Taxes on the sale of a modular home can range from $5,000 to $10,000, but the total can vary from state to state and even city to city. The modular home builder should be able to advise homeowners regarding taxes in their area, but it is recommended that homeowners check state and local tax codes if they have questions.

Permits and Fees

Permit fees for a modular home range from $500 to $5,000 depending on the state, size of the home, and local regulations. Some general permits that may be required are ground surveys, utility connections, preliminary plan reviews, civil works, mechanical works, roadway construction, occupancy permits, and permits for the construction of additional features.

Additional Costs and Considerations

When planning to build a hurricane-proof modular home, homeowners need to be aware of all the additional costs and considerations that could affect the price of the project. This can include prefabricated or custom work, home extensions, and relocation expenses.

Pre-built vs. custom

Modular homes can be built in a variety of styles, but there are two types homeowners can choose from: prefabricated and custom-built. A prefab kit is designed by the manufacturer, is usually the less expensive option, and usually has few choices. The other option is a custom built modular home. Some manufacturers allow homeowners to make some custom modifications to a prefab home, but others do not. The other option is a fully custom modular home designed to the homeowner's needs. After the homeowner has chosen everything about the home, it is made to order by the manufacturer. Both custom and prefab modular homes come in a range of prices based on size, style, location, and building materials. Prefab homes start with a base price that increases with setup, delivery, and additional build-out costs. A modular prefab home typically costs between $100 and $200 per square foot, and a custom-built home costs between $100 and $400 per square foot. If the homeowner wants to add customizations, be prepared to pay more per square foot than these average prices.

Home additions

Depending on the modular home design, homeowners may want to add some customization and amenities. These add-ons can include a driveway, garage, patio, shed, basement, landscaping, fence, or pool. Below are the average prices for these features.

• • • lane addition.Some contractors installing modular homes may include the price of a driveway in the total cost. This could include a paved or gravel driveway; Homeowners should double-check that they're getting the features they want. If they are interested in a custom or decorative driveway, the cost of paving can range from $3,200 to $10,000.
    • garage extension.The cost of a prefab garage can range from $8,000 to $38,000. If a homeowner desires an attached garage, they should discuss this with the manufacturer before building the modular home, as the garage will most likely be incorporated into the overall footprint of the home for pricing purposes. Prefab garages can accommodate one or two cars and are designed as free-standing structures. You can even include a living area on the second floor as a guest area.
    • deck addition.Smaller decks and porches for modular homes are usually built at the same time as the home. Larger, more complex porches or decks are built after the rest of the structure is completed. Some modular home builders build decks, but homeowners should keep in mind that they may need to contact a separate builder for this add-on. The average deck price ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 depending on size and complexity.
    • scale additive.A shed extension costs between $1,500 and $10,000. Prefabricated sheds tend to be more budget-friendly than site-built structures. While many prefabricated sheds are prefabricated, some companies allow a homeowner to customize the shed to match the style and color of the modular home.
    • basement attachment.Modular homes can be installed on a basement foundation, depending on the local soil type and water table, although some sites may not have basement foundations if the water table is high or prone to flooding. Homeowners must decide if they want a basement foundation before the modular home is shipped and installed as the home will be placed on the foundation and then secured. The average cost of a basement foundation ranges from $25,000 to $40,000 depending on size.
    • Landscaping additions.When preparing the site and site for a modular home, it is usually cleared of trees and other vegetation. Some modular home companies offer basic landscaping, but others don't. If this is the case, the homeowner will need to hire a landscaping company to plant trees, shrubs, flowers, and grass. Landscaping around a new modular home costs anywhere from $8,000 to $15,000 depending on yard size, location, and plant types.
    • Fechtzusatz.Fencing, which typically costs between $2,000 and $5,000 to build a new home, can increase privacy and security; Many homeowners choose to install it after modular home construction.
    • Poolzusatz.Both in-ground and above-ground pools come in multiple shapes and sizes. Some homeowners choose to prepare the site for a pool at the same time as site preparation for the modular home. Most modular home manufacturers do not install pools, so a pool installation company would need to be hired for the task. The cost of installing a pool ranges from $10,000 to $100,000 depending on the size, shape and material.

moving expenses

Moving an off-frame modular home (one that can be listed from its steel frame support and installed on a foundation) ranges from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the size of the home, travel distance, permit fees, and installation. The cost of moving a modular home on the frame ranges from $1,000 to $8,000 for up to 50 miles, depending on setup fees.

Types of Hurricane Proof Modular Homes

Customers interested in purchasing a modular home will be pleased to know that they are available in the same styles, floor plans and designs as traditional wooden homes. The cost of hurricane-proof modular homes varies based on the size and complexity of construction and installation, and not necessarily the style. The cost below for each type of modular home is based on the average size of each type and includes prices for prefabricated and custom made types of modular homes, including labor costs.

Tiny home

A modular tiny house typically ranges in size from 100 to 400 square feet but can grow to 500 square feet. These modular homes range in price from $20,000 to $50,000 for a prefab and from $50,000 to $100,000 for a custom option. Small modular homes can be built on a foundation or on a steel frame with wheels, depending on location and size.

Small house

A small prefab home costs between $40,000 and $67,500; Custom orders cost between $96,000 and $207,000. Small modular homes are typically between 800 and 900 square feet.

townhouse

Townhouses typically have two stories and range in size from 900 to 1,500 square feet. Since they are not free-standing homes and are built in rows or groups, the pricing structure is somewhat different than the pricing of other types of modular homes. A prefabricated single modular townhouse ranges from $45,000 to $112,500 and ranges from $90,000 to $165,000 for a custom option. If the townhouse floor plan covers more square feet and has more than two floors, prices can increase.

hut

Most modular cottages are between 1,000 and 2,000 square feet; the average price may change if they are smaller or larger. The cost of a modular prefab home ranges from $50,000 to $150,000, or $120,000 to $460,000 for a custom build. Cottages are commonly found in rural or holiday settings and are considered smaller than single family homes.

Ranchhaus

The most common type of modular ranch home is the one-story option, which ranges from 1,500 to 1,700 square feet of living space. They can usually come in two modules, making installation quicker than installing other styles. Homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $75,000 to $127,500 for a prefabricated ranch home and $180,000 to $391,000 for a custom home.

log cabin

Many modular log homes are sold as kit homes, which means the log home is prefabricated and then shipped in separate pieces. The homeowner is expected to build and install the home or hire a contractor to complete the work. Modular log houses can be built to measure, but they are also delivered without assembly. A finished prefab log cabin ranges from $25,000 to $200,000, while a custom option ranges from $50,000 to $460,000.

Duplex

Modular maisonettes can be built side-by-side as 2-storey or 1-storey houses. A pre-built option costs $90,000-$225,000, and a custom duplex costs $216,000-$600,000. These prices are for duplexes between 1,800 and 3,000 square feet, so the final cost may change depending on the size of the duplex.

detached house

A modular family home is typically just over 2,000 square feet. They cost between $100,000 and $150,000 for a pre-built version and between $240,000 and $460,000 for a custom version. Modular family homes come in a variety of floor plans and styles, which can affect the final cost of the project.

Benefits of Hurricane Resistant Modular Homes

Building modular homes takes less time and the cost is usually less than thatCost of building a traditional house. They come in all different types, designs, layouts and styles to suit the needs of the homeowner.

Fast setup

Building a stormproof modular home can take as little as 4 to 8 months from signing the contract to completing the installation, which is 30 to 60 percent faster than a traditional timber home.

Low construction costs

Modular houses cost about 10 to 20 percent less than prefabricated houses. The average cost to build a traditional home ranges from $100 to $200 per square foot, compared to $80 to $160 for a modular option.

High energy efficiency

Because of their solid construction, modular homes are more energy efficient than traditional homes and typically have lower heating and cooling costs.

strength and durability

Modular homes use 15 to 20 percent more wood in the construction process, allowing them to withstand winds of 175 miles per hour with less damage than pole homes. This makes them ideal homes for those living in hurricane prone areas or even areas known for tornadoes. Since modular homes are built in a factory and need to be moved, these extra materials also allow them to withstand transportation without suffering damage.

Multiple customization options

Modular homes can be customized to the needs of the homeowner. Many options are available, from modest modifications to a pre-engineered design to many modifications made to a custom design.

Hurricane-Proof Modular Homes: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

Experienced DIYers can succeed in buildingMail order kit houses. These kit homes are typically between 60 and 1,000 square feet and come with detailed instructions and materials. For a storm-proof modular home, it's best to leave the construction to the professionals. Modular homes are built off-site in a factory and transported to the construction site. Professional builders know how to safely and accurately build a hurricane-proof modular home to withstand high winds and windblown debris from a hurricane. An experienced modular home installer will also handle site and site preparation, obtain permits, follow required building codes, identify and resolve potential issues, and manage subcontractors.

This is how you save moneyCost of Hurricane Proof Modular Homes

Budgeting the cost of a hurricane-proof modular home can be daunting. One way to save on project costs is to buy the cheapest modular home, but there are other ways without compromising on quality and the features you want.

• • • Shopping spree.Take the time to research different modular home manufacturers to find the best styles and prices for your budget.
    • Opt for a prefabricated house.Designing a custom modular home results in all the features you want, but it also comes with a hefty price tag. Consider a pre-built option with a few tweaks to save money.
    • Choose the location carefully.If the construction site is difficult to access for delivery vehicles, higher delivery and transport costs will be incurred. When choosing your website, be sure to pay attention to accessibility.
    • bundle projects.If you know you also want to install a pool or guest house, complete these projects at the same time. Contractors can offer savings by tackling multiple projects at once.
    • Ask questions about discounts or promotions.Ask the modular home manufacturer or builder if there are ways to save, such as B. Discounts or seasonal special offers. You may have suggestions that you may not have considered.

Questions about hurricane-proof modular homes

Asking the right questions to a modular home manufacturer or contractor can minimize misunderstandings and achieve the best results. Below are some questions about the cost of hurricane proof modular homes and the installation process.

• • • What is your previous experience with modular homes?
    • Do you have a portfolio I can look at?
    • Are you licensed?
    • Are you insured?
    • How many modular homes does your company build in a year?
    • Are there any modular homes that you have built that I can view?
    • Do you have references?
    • Do you use sustainable building materials?
    • What types of customizations can I add to the modular home?
    • Do you offer custom flooring or kitchen cabinets?
    • Do you install driveways?
    • Can I add a garage or shed to the modular home?
    • How do you deal with construction problems?
    • Do you conduct inspections? How often?
    • How will you keep in touch with me during the construction process?
    • Who installs the modular house?
    • What is the tentative schedule for construction and installation?
    • Do you offer guarantees?
    • What kind of guarantees do you offer?
    • What is the total price of the project?
    • What payment plans do you have?
    • How can I leave a review?

frequently asked Questions

In frontto choose a stormproof modular home builder, prospective homeowners want all the information they need. Below are some frequently asked questions about storm proof modular homes and the installation and construction process.

Q. What type of roof is best for hurricanes?

A metal roof is more expensive than a traditional shingle roof, but a metal roof can withstand winds of 160 miles per hour, making it the best option for hurricane-prone areas.

Q. What is the best shape for a storm proof house?

Simple, symmetrical, and compact house designs work best in hurricane-prone locations. Octagonal, circular and hexagonal houses can withstand strong storms better than square buildings.

Q. Can a modular home survive a hurricane?

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), modular homes are safe structures during a hurricane.

Q. Can concrete homes withstand hurricanes?

Concrete houses and houses in insulated concrete form (ICF) are among the most wind-resistant structures on the market, capable of withstanding wind speeds of up to 155 miles per hour.

Q. What type of home can withstand a Category 5 hurricane?

Homes made from recycled plastic bottles that are melted and formed into walls have successfully weathered Category 5 hurricanes.

Q. What is the difference between a modular home and a prefab home?

A modular home is built in a factory in separate, self-contained units, parts, or modules. A prefab house is also built in a factory but is ultimately erected on site. All modular structures are prefabricated, but not all prefabricated buildings are considered modular.

Sources:HomeAdvisor,HomeGuide,Fixr,Yahoo! News, Paul Cataldo Architecture & Planning PC