Mini Home vs Modular Home
Updated: 2 hours ago
If you are looking for an alternative to traditional housing, you may have come across the terms mini homes and modular homes. But what are they and how do they differ from each other? In this blog post, we will explore the main features, advantages, and disadvantages of both types of homes.
What are mini homes?
Mini homes, also known as tiny homes, are small dwellings that range up to 1200 square feet in size. Mini homes in Canada are built to CSA A277 standards and are well suited for Canadian climates. They can be upto 16ft wide and 74ft long and are transported on oversize tractor trailers. They are offloaded at the final destination by a crane. Mini homes can be built on temporary or permanent foundations depending on your needs and zoning requirements. Foundations can be wooden cribbing, concrete blocks, permanent concrete knee walls or steel pilings.
Mini homes are designed to be eco-friendly, and affordable. They can be customized to suit the owner’s preferences and needs.
What are modular homes?
Modular homes are prefabricated homes that are built in sections or modules in a factory, the same as mini homes. The modules each upto 16ft wide and 74ft long are then transported to the site and assembled only on a permanent foundation. Modular homes can vary in size, style, and design, depending on the manufacturer and the customer’s specifications. Modular homes are effectively mini homes that at connected together to form a large home.
What are the pros and cons of mini homes?
Mini homes have several benefits, such as:
They are less expensive than modular homes and traditional homes. The cost of a mini home is less than the cost of a modular home plus a mini home will be lower in shipping, foundation and installation costs.
Mini homes are more environmentally friendly than modular homes and traditional homes. They use less energy, water, and materials, and produce less waste.
They encourage a simpler and more minimalist lifestyle than modular homes and traditional homes. They reduce clutter, stress, and expenses.
However, mini homes also have some drawbacks, such as:
They have less space than modular homes and traditional homes. They can be impractical for some people.
They have less zoning options than modular homes and traditional homes. They may not be allowed or regulated in some areas due to their size.
Which one is better for you?
The choice between a mini home or a modular home depends on your personal preferences, needs, budget, lifestyle, and location. Here are some questions that you can ask yourself to help you decide:
How much space do you need? If you prefer a smaller and simpler living space, a mini home may be suitable for you. If you need more room for yourself or your family, a modular home may be better for you.
How much money do you have? If you have a tight budget or want to save money, a mini home may be more affordable for you. If you have more financial resources, a modular home may be more valuable for you.