Prefabricated homes are becoming increasingly popular in farming communities. Traditional stick-frame houses can take several months to build, which can be stressful during busy seasons like the harvest. In contrast, prefabricated houses like RTMs and modular homes can be purchased, constructed, and installed within a five-month period, making them an efficient and cost-effective option for rural areas.
If you’re considering purchasing an RTM or modular home, you likely wonder what the difference is between these two house models. Below, we’ll go over how RTM and modular homes differ, which is right for you, and how you can get modular and RTM homes in Saskatchewan with Blue Hills Construction. Keep reading!
What Is an RTM Home?
RTM homes are pre-fabricated houses that are built on a construction site and transported to their final location in one fully finished piece. RTMs are installed on concrete pile foundations and will usually include a finished basement.
What Is a Modular Home?
Modular homes are built in climate-controlled factories and can be constructed as a full house or in separate pieces to be transported and finished at the final location. Unlike RTMs, modular homes are designed for screw-pile or block foundations and do not feature basements.
Key Differences Between RTM and Modular Homes
RTM homes and modulars share some similarities when it comes to their appearance, construction, and overall convenience in comparison to traditional stick-frame builds. However, these houses also differ in several ways. If you’re considering purchasing a pre-fabricated home, understanding the differences between a modular and an RTM will better equip you to choose the right home for your needs.
Both RTMs and modular homes offer different levels of flexibility in their layouts. RTM homes, which include basements in their design, are a great choice for larger families. Down the road, you can turn the basement into a legal suite, which you can use to house aging parents and adult children living at home or even rent out for extra income.
Modular homes, on the other hand, are generally one-floor houses and don’t feature basements, which can limit your options for a separate living space. However, modulars are well set up for building additions. If you decide to expand a bedroom, build on an extra one, or need another space for storage, you can change the layout by adding more modules down the line.
Regarding expense, modular homes are generally more cost-effective than RTM homes. They have shorter lead times and, due to being built on screw piles, cost less to construct than a home that features a basement. In addition to the added construction cost, secondary floors require extra HVAC hookups and system installation, which can add up quickly.
Which Is Right for You?
Whether you decide to purchase a modular or RTM home largely depends on your personal needs and preferences. Potential homeowners operating within a strict budget may be more inclined towards a modular home, as these are cost-effective both in their design and construction. However, if you’d like a larger living space with more flexibility, RTM homes can support both a basement level and home additions on the main floor.
Get Modular and RTM Homes in Saskatchewan with Blue Hills Construction
If you’d like to purchase a pre-fabricated home, you can make it happen with Blue Hills Construction! Contact us today to learn more about our modular and RTM models, pricing, and customization options.