Modular houses are prefabricated structures built in modules manufactured and assembled on-site. They are built under controlled plant conditions, using the same materials, and designed to the same codes and standards as conventionally built facilities but in about half the time. As a result, this reduces the construction cost to 30% to 50% less than traditional construction methods. Modular houses are built in “modules” that when put together on-site reflect the identical design intent and specifications of the most sophisticated site-built facility without compromise. Modular houses are flexible and scalable, making them popular in various parts of the world. With time Indian context is also adapting to this building method to build with more options and increase mobility.

Why Modular Homes?

1. Cost-Effective

As discussed, builders construct modular homes 70% off-site in significantly less time than traditional on-site construction. This gives the advantage of the designs being cost-effective and flexible. Time and money are assets that cannot be wasted unnecessarily. Modular houses became a technique of construction that can be used widely. There are various reasons why one must use the modular house construction technique.

2. Faster Construction

Built off-site with the help of machinery and bulk production, the modular house construction process remains unaffected by weather conditions, labor shortages, or material scarcity. Pre-stocking raw materials before construction ensures a smooth and uninterrupted building process.

3. Design Flexibility

Modular houses offer a wide range of selection of floor plans, sections for the outside walls, and materials. They can be customized in any manner to suit the specific needs of the users according to the climate, aesthetics, and functional requirements. For example, one can build a multi-story house for more functions while extending the house by putting two modules side by side. 

4. Quality Control

As the process of construction is completely monitored for the modular houses, one can keep in check the exact quality of materials that are used. This allows one to have a perfect module.

5. Energy Efficient

These modular homes can incorporate any type of energy-efficient features and materials, such as improved insulation, energy-efficient windows, collapsible roof systems, and energy-saving appliances. As a result, they decrease the utility cost and reduce the environmental footprint. Hence, people consider modular houses eco-friendly due to their controlled construction process and efficient use of materials.

6. Portability

You can easily dismantle and transport these houses anywhere within hours or days. Builders can construct modular houses in various shapes and sizes, allowing them to be adjusted and refined as needed in different locations. This makes the design more flexible and convenient.

7. Higher Durability

Modular buildings are highly durable in comparison to traditional buildings. As they are manufactured in a very planned environment, they have precise techniques and fewer errors in the construction. The materials used are robust and designed to withstand various environmental conditions, providing a reliable solution for every condition.

8. Being eco-friendly

Since designers carefully pre-plan them, these houses have a low rate of errors and minimal wastage. Their designs offer significant advantages, allowing the incorporation of better insulating systems, well-placed windows, and sustainable materials. This method preserves the natural landscape and minimizes the impact on local ecosystems. 

9. Quick Installation Time

Modular houses are very good for Indian construction as the businesses have a specific time limit for the construction to proceed swiftly. For example, while the site is being prepared, the building modules are being fabricated, this parallel process helps one get the construction done in time. The quick installation process helps the businesses grow faster as they can occupy the space rapidly.

Despite these advantages, builders also face some challenges when constructing modular houses.

10. Transportation comes with costs and risks

As the assembly of the modules is done away from the site, the logistics have to be planned long before. The companies have to calculate every risk that can come on the road while transporting the modules. Also, as it is in parts all of it has to be carefully packed with proper tags and indications such that it is easy to install.

11. Less scope of Customization 

Since manufacturers mass-produce modular houses, they limit the design to certain variables. They can be very useful in building apartments, hotels, and subdivision homes. But, when it comes to building customizable homes where various designs are the main aspect they are not useful due to their production limitations.

12. Lack of Resources

As this construction technique is still growing, there are very few manufacturers that manufacture modular homes. Only a few places offer complex modular structures. This limits the access to the modular homes designs.

Having these advantages of the modular houses, one can say that it is definitely beneficial for the construction in India. With the increasing population the need for better and more affordable housing that can have flexibility and low construction time can be very useful for the context. Also, the modular house concept can be very beneficial to businesses to expand in less cost and time. 

In India, the modular house concept covers a large number of areas, for example, modular homes, offices, sheds, multi-story buildings for housing, and prefabricated steel buildings for industries.

Builders in India construct a few modular houses using specific materials and techniques.

1. Steel: used in metal modular houses for its strength and longevity, especially in commercial and industrial buildings. 
2. Concrete: used in pre-cast concrete for walls and structural elements offering strength and ease in industries. 
3. Wood: As it is a lightweight and versatile material it provides natural insulation in residential houses. 
4. Insulated panels: Panels with insulating cores, like polyurethane or polystyrene, offer good regulation of temperature which is ideal for modular houses.  

By examining a few examples of modular houses worldwide and the techniques used to achieve cost-effective and energy-efficient buildings, we can study them for further application. These modular houses create various opportunities as they take less time to build. Additionally, mass production reduces costs through a faster process and minimal material and labor waste. Moreover, the concept and techniques are useful for the Indian context for efficient housing.

Content Writing and Research by: Ar. Rajeshwari Pandya Modi