Is a Modular Home a Trailer?

Whether you’re just getting started on finding your next home or you’ve already narrowed down your list of favorite Clayton Built® models, we know our customers often have questions about the different types of homes we offer. These questions include things like, “Is a modular home a trailer?” Well, I’m here to tell you the simple answer to this question is no. Today’s modular homes are very different from the trailers and mobile homes of the past, inside and out.

Modular and manufactured homes are both types of off-site built, or prefabricated, homes. This means they are constructed indoors in a home building facility and then transported to their home site, where the finishing touches are assembled.

Many people still use “trailer” or “mobile home” to refer to any kind of prefabricated home, but technically these types of homes haven’t been built since the 1970s. This is when federal codes were standardized for many areas of manufactured home construction. And while new manufactured homes are built to this HUD Code, modular homes are built to all applicable state and local building codes, based on where the home will be located. This is similar to how your typical site-built home is constructed.

How a modular home is built can vary based on the state, county, city or even township the home will be located in, including details like the roof pitch, foundation type or installation requirements. If your modular home will be located in a neighborhood, it will also need to meet any rules or regulations that neighborhood may have.

What do modular homes look like?

What do you picture when you think of a modular home? If you’re imagining a flat-roofed, boxy structure, just remember what I said earlier about how modular homes look very different today than they might have in the past. When it comes to the exteriors of our Clayton Built® modular homes, you’ll find features like wraparound porches or garage options, plus siding and accent choices to really help you personalize your new home.

And on the inside, we’re all about the features and details we know are at the top of your must-have list. From kitchens with islands and tons of cabinets to bathrooms with dual vanities and standalone tubs, we don’t believe you should have to choose between affordability, quality and style. We have a wide variety of modular home models available to help make your dream of finding a home with that perfect utility room, open floor plan or built-in farmhouse touches into a reality.

Many of our floor plans even include customization or upgrade options, like fireplaces, entertainment centers or coffered ceilings, or the ability to choose the layout of the kitchen or primary bathroom. And I can’t forget to mention all of the handy energy efficient features you’ll find in our new homes, like a smart thermostat and dual element water heater.

Why should you consider buying a modular home?

There are many reasons why a modular home from Clayton can be a great choice for you and your family. A modular home is generally a more affordable option than a traditional site-built home for those who are considering homeownership. And at Clayton, we combine a streamlined construction process that helps us reduce waste and delays with materials from top home building brands, so you know your stylish new home is also built to last. This, combined with the features and customizable options I talked about above, all comes together so you can create a home that fits you and you family’s needs.

If you’re interested in learning more about what modular homes are available near you, you can check out the Find a Home page on our website. There, you can use our filters to find home models with the options you’re looking for, including modular construction. The home consultants at your local home center will also be glad to help you with any questions you have about specific homes, price ranges and features you’re interested in. Get started today!