We’ve all heard of standard construction when it comes to house building. Typically this means the structure is made using bricks or blocks and is constructed on the site in which the property will sit.
However, an alternative proposition, and one which is growing in popularity, is that of offsite homes.
This isn’t a new concept but given the benefits it offers, it’s not surprising more and more developers and those who choose self-build are looking to incorporate offsite homes into their projects.
But what is offsite? Simply put offsite homes, also known as modular or prefabricated, are constructed offsite in a factory rather than on the building plot.
The structure can be either timber frame or Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs), both of which are reliable, durable and solid.
SIP homes can be erected on average six months faster than those using brick but timber frames within seven to 10 days depending on the size and complexity of the build.
The manufacturing process uses pinpoint accuracy thanks to state-of-the-art equipment to ensure the finished product will be weather tight and air tight.
Once constructed in the factory, the various components of the property are brought to the site and assembled into the finished home.
For the developer or buyer, there is complete flexibility. An offsite property can range from the frame only through to a fully finished home, complete with the exact fit out the buyer has asked for such as specific windows, doors and cladding.
The concept has been around for many years, particularly in Europe, but it is gaining in popularity here in the UK and it’s easy to see why.
For one thing, whereas traditional or standard construction properties can be cheaper to build, costs can escalate depending on the fit out, costs of more unforeseen problems and finish, the build can be delayed due to adverse weather conditions and such properties built in this way have far more design constraints.
In comparison, with offsite construction, the build process can be streamlined, they come at a fixed price with no chance of the buyer being hit with hidden costs, build speeds are quicker and they are far greener thanks to exceptional levels of air-tightness as a result of the precision manufacturing process and state-of-the-art machinery. If the materials used are sourced sustainably, the eco credentials of the home can be increased further. Finally, offsite homes allow for more design flexibility, allowing for greater creativity and fewer compromises in the final desired look.
Such are the advantages, many developers are making offsite builds part of their developments. This has been the case in a project which Sheldon Bosley Knight is marketing in the village of Halford, south Warwickshire.
Situated on the edge of the village, Idlicote Park features 15 plots from award-winning developer, TAG Urban Properties.
Designed by London-based architects, TateHindle, there are five different, approved house types ranging from 1,784 sq ft to 2,470 sq ft.
With a starting price of £725,000, the homes will be constructed in Poland by specialist offsite home manufacturer, Dan-Wood.
Sheldon Bosley Knight associate director, Nik Kyriacou said: “Offsite homes are an exciting addition to the housebuilding sector and we are delighted they will be incorporated into this scheme at Halford.
“With a traditional build, there is always an element of uncertainty for the buyer, whether as a result of delays caused by bad weather or spiralling costs, but with this, the buyer can remain confident the timescale and costs will remain the same throughout the process, given the expert levels of quality control and precision achieved. The property will also be more eco-friendly so it’s a win win.
“Construction times will be greatly reduced compared to traditional builds which could also help with the targets the government has set itself of building 1.5million homes within four years.”
