Modular homes are made of units called modules, shipped to a building site and assembled. They are of different types, structures, designs and budgets.

The modular home method combines the benefits of engineering and shop floor manufacturing to produce high quality homes. Compared to traditional, stick-built homes, the method yields considerable savings in time, cost, waste generation, etc.

As modular home dealer Andrew Gianino points out, modular homes have the advantages of a trained and experienced work force, large and sophisticated production machinery, precision jig assembly, high-quality kiln-dried lumber, and construction done indoors in climate-protected facilities. There is adherence to local building codes, superior energy efficiency, and strict quality control systems.

As modular homes first became popular in the 1060s, they were considered low-quality, affordable substitutes for stick-built homes. But today they are available in very high-quality and varying, luxurious and creative designs.

All manufacturers have some standard and traditional designs. But they also supplement these designs with many architect-designed variations. Many architects have now begun to design modular homes. Manufacturers have learned to use wood and steel beams in their floor plans, and they have borrowed from both classical and contemporary designs to give their homes beautiful exteriors. Modular homes today are embellished by Cathedral ceilings, reversed gables and other exciting designs.

Many manufacturers allow the customer to custom-design their own modular homes. Computer aided design (CAD) has made it possible to prepare custom floor plans accurately. Manufacturers routinely customize the modular homes according to a customers choice. Luxury features like skylights, central vacuum cleaning, whirlpool tubs, and bay and bow windows are added on by designers.

Modular homes today can be built to any specification or size. From a one-and-a-half split level ranch to a grand 4000 sq. ft. luxury condo, the modular industry has a wide range of options. Amenities like granite-topped kitchen counter tops and hardwood floors are also available. In sum, modular-built houses can be every bit as luxurious as stick-built houses.