Common Questions about Panelized Walls

Stick framing construction is a traditional approach to framing a building structure is labour intensive. Materials are delivered to the job site and erected piece by piece, leading to longer on-site delays due to weather, theft and unpredictable unknowns.

Panelized construction (walls and floors) tremendously reduces time spent on the job site. Installation is usually measured in hours not days. Using wall panels is a simpler, better, and more cost effective way to build. If you're looking for something that workers can build efficiently to save time and money, panelization is the way to go!

A building system is a highly engineered construction method that produces buildings or building components in an efficient and cost-effective manner. The manufacturers of building systems seek to build the highest-quality product in a carefully controlled setting limiting exposure to adverse elements. The Building Systems Councils of NAHB represent the interests of the builders, manufacturers and suppliers of concrete, log, modular, and panelized homes.

Systems-building techniques are prevalent in residential and commercial construction. From one-story homes to high-rise apartment buildings and offices, more and more builders are implementing building systems technology into their structures.

Panelized homes begin as components that are designed, engineered and assembled in the controlled environment of a modern factory. Once assembled in the factory, the panels are shipped via ground transport to the intended home site where a local builder takes over. Your local homebuilder will arrange and assemble the home's components on a foundation. After the components are set and assembled, the builder can add customizations to the home, including decks, patios, masonry, and more.

You can also ask to see the company's business license.

Because of the manufacturing process and ease of assembly, panelized homes can be finished in a very short amount of time. The time required to erect wall/floor panels for most projects is measured in hours, not days. Once all the materials for construction are received, some manufacturers can turn-around a 2500 square foot home in just days. Assembly of the modules themselves takes only a day or two.

Yes, for the better! Not only are concrete, log, modular, and panelized homes built to the same local building code as "stick-built" homes, these types of building systems often exceed the building codes. Log, modular, and panelized homes must withstand the rigors of ground transportation, so manufacturers routinely reinforce the walls, ceilings, and other components to ensure the highest-quality product reaches its destination. Concrete homes are rising in popularity due to the highly durable and sustainable properties of the building material. Another benefit of using building systems is that the components are inspected before leaving the factory, virtually ensuring that there will be no unpleasant "surprises" during your walk-through.

A great deal. Most manufacturers have a portfolio of standard floor plans with a variety of personalization options. If you want to custom design your own home, many manufacturers can be accommodating. With the advent of Computer-Assisted Design (CAD) program, homebuyers can work closely with their manufacturer to design their dream home. All manufacturers are unique, however, and engineering capabilities and product specifications will vary from company to company.

Just about anyone! Since these homes are built to the same codes as stick-built homes, most banks and lending institutions treat both types of construction the same. In fact, some financers have established departments specifically for systems-built homes. Similarly, there is no difference in insuring a systems-built property

Owners of modular and panelized homes can see savings upfront and throughout the life of the home. Most manufacturers use state-of-the-art equipment and an efficient construction process to see that their homes are built with a minimum of excess waste and labor. When homes are delivered to a home site, they are assembled in less time than a stick-built home, greatly reducing the potential danger of inclement weather, theft, and workplace vandalism.

Over the life of the home, systems-built homes can save money because they can be incredibly efficient. Homeowners can realize savings on heating and air conditioning bills each year they live in a modular or panelized home. Many BSC members have detailed information on the cost savings affiliated with building systems technology.

Yes, our services are available across Atlantic Canada and mid-Canada.