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ABS Catalog House Collections
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What is “systems-built” (or modular) construction?
Systems-built homes are built in factories, utilizing the efficient assembly line production process. A systems-built home can be built offsite while preparation work is simultaneously being done on the building lot. In traditional site-built projects, construction of the house could not begin until all site preparation had been finished.
The house can be constructed in the factory in as little as one to two weeks, complete with siding, roofing, windows and doors, cabinetry, plumbing fixtures and even floor coverings. It is wrapped for shipping with a weatherproof material and loaded on special carriers for transportation to the job site. The house components are then lifted by crane onto the completed foundation where it subsequently is finished by the builder.
Systems-built factories buy materials in huge quantities, thereby earning volume prices. Labor in this controlled environment can be utilized to its maximum efficiency, contributing to even greater savings. When you combine all the labor, material and time savings inherent in the systems-built process, you will find that the price of a systems-built home is generally lower than a comparable site built home.
Why is systems-built construction better?
There are numerous reasons. All construction activity takes place inside a climate-controlled environment. There are no construction delays due to inclement weather. Building materials never see weather, important in areas of the country where health-threatening mold and mildew are prevalent.
Systems built houses are engineered structures, built in jigs and fixtures, which results in more precise tolerances. And, while systems-built houses contain up to 33% more materials to withstand the rigors of transportation, thus resulting in a stronger structure, there is less waste than a conventional site-built house.
If this description still makes you doubt the superiority of a systems-built home versus a conventional site-built house, ask yourself this question: “Would I buy a car that is built one part at a time in my driveway?”
Do systems-built houses comply with local building codes?
Systems-built companies were required to comply with strict new provisions of the new International Residential Building Code one full year before conventional builders were. Additionally, Coastal Cottages must provide the exact location of your building site so that the factory can also take into account any pertinent local codes that might apply, such as seismic, wind speed and corrosive provisions.
There is, in fact, evidence that systems-built houses are built stronger than their site-built counterparts due in part to the structural integrity required by the rigors of transportation. Testimony to the superiority of the systems-built construction process can be found in a recent report published by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) after Hurricane Andrew devastated south Florida. Said the report: “Overall, relatively minimal structural damage was noted in modular [systems-built] housing developments. The module to module combination of the units appears to have provided an inherently rigid system that performed much better than conventional residential framing. This was evident in both the transverse and longitudinal directions of the modular buildings.”
What choices will I have to make my house unique to me?
Not only is there a wide variety of plans available to you, there are numerous exterior and interior options and upgrades that will make your house one-of-a-kind. Coastal Cottages’ award-winning interior designer will guide you through a simple and fun process of making decisions regarding siding, roofing, cabinetry, countertops and other features.
Can I make changes to the designs?
The fastest and most cost-effective scenario is to build a “stock” plan that has already been through all of the phases of design, engineering, costing and state approvals that add time to any discreet project. In ABS’ Collection, most or all of this work already has been done. Our plans have been created by renowned architects who have carefully designed in features for optimum livability such as nine foot ceilings, large windows, veiled private areas, traffic flow, wide ample porches, etc. The design goal was to provide plans that answer the majority of needs and wants of most buyers.
Even seemingly small changes can cause a “ripple” effect that impacts other functions such as electrical and plumbing, even design elevations. Sometimes, however, changes are considered worthwhile to meet personal desires and requirements. Depending on the extent of the modifications, you can expect to pay additional architectural, engineering and construction fees and add potentially significant time to the process.
Will I need a builder?
No, ABS’ preference is to provide an “occupant-ready” house, utilizing its certified and bonded general contractors who have experience both with systems-built construction in general and our products in particular. We are then able to guarantee that the house will be finished properly. If you insist on using your licensed builder, he/she will be required to finish the house according to our design specifications and parameters. Additionally, your builder will have to assume all liabilities associated with the project after completion of joining the house to the foundation.
Can I just buy the floor plans?
No.
Will you sell the house to me to finish myself?
Only if you are a licensed general contractor. Many states have laws that require systems-built manufacturers to sell only to licensed GC’s. However, there are “sweat-equity” things you can do to reduce your overall cost, such as painting, landscaping, etc. Identification of those items is subject to agreement between you and the builder.
I like your process, but want to build a custom home. Can you help me?
The ABS Collection of systems-built homes was designed by award-winning, published architects with a long history of fine residential design. We will be happy to discuss your custom project.
Can you arrange financing?
Yes, ABS has relationships with lending institutions that understand the rapidness of the systems built process—and have come to prefer it. We would be happy to refer you. If you already have a lender that you like, ABS can assist you in providing specific information to satisfy their application requirements.
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