Are you thinking about building a prefabricated home but aren't sure whether to choose wood or an industrial modular system? In this article, we analyze both options in depth to help you make the best decision based on your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
What is an industrialized modular home?
An industrial modular home is a factory-built home constructed from blocks or "modules" using materials such as concrete, steel, or engineered panels. The entire process follows a highly precise, industrialized approach. These modules are transported to the site and assembled within a few days. The result: a high-quality, durable home with finishes ready to move into.
And what is a prefabricated wooden house?
Prefabricated wooden houses are also manufactured in parts in a workshop, although their structure is almost entirely composed of natural or engineered wood (lightweight timber framing, CLT, laminated logs, etc.). They have a warm, traditional appearance and are common in mountain areas or as second homes.
Comparison: industrialized modular homes vs. wooden houses
Durability and structural resistance
Industrialized modular homes stand out for their robustness. Materials such as galvanized steel or concrete do not degrade over time, withstand extreme climates, and offer structural stability for generations. Wood, on the other hand, although durable, is organic: it can be affected by moisture, insects, or fire if not consistently maintained.
Necessary maintenance and care
A wooden house requires periodic treatments (varnishes, sealants, pest control). For example, the exterior may need to be inspected every 1-2 years. In an industrial modular home, maintenance is minimal: the materials used don't rust, rot, or warp.
Construction and delivery time
Both options are faster than traditional construction. However, the industrialized system is unbeatable in terms of turnaround time: Moodul, for example, delivers a house ready to move into within five months of obtaining a permit. The entire process is timed and controlled in the factory. Wooden houses, while faster, usually require more work on-site.
Initial and long-term cost
Wood may be more economical in the short term, as it is a lightweight material and requires less demanding foundations. But in the long term, maintenance and repair costs increase. Industrialized modular homes, on the other hand, have a slightly higher cost per square meter, but the total cost of ownership (TCO) is lower.
Energy efficiency and insulation
Wood is a good natural insulator. However, industrialized modular homes incorporate advanced thermal solutions (ETICS, triple insulation, thermal carpentry) that match or exceed the performance of wood. Furthermore, since they are manufactured in a closed environment, thermal bridges and construction errors are avoided.
Design and customization
Design is no longer a problem for modular homes. Today, you can create a customized home by combining modules and choosing finishes. In wooden houses, the design tends toward rustic or traditional styles. Modern options exist, but they usually require a premium.
Sustainability and environment
Wood has a good ecological reputation, being renewable and having a low carbon footprint. However, the modular system is also sustainable: it minimizes waste, allows the use of recycled materials, and consumes less energy thanks to its efficiency. Furthermore, companies like Moodul incorporate certified wood in many of their insulation systems.
Resale value and warranties
An industrially manufactured modular home maintains its market value better than a wooden one. In Spain, buyers value concrete or steel structures more than used wood. Furthermore, modular homes have structural warranties of up to 10 years, something not always available with handcrafted wood systems.
So, what type of prefab home is best for you?
The answer depends on your priority. If you're looking for a worry-free home with a sturdy structure, low maintenance costs, and a modern, personalized aesthetic, industrial modular homes are a safe bet. On the other hand, if you're drawn to the warmth of wood and are confident you can handle its periodic maintenance, you might consider a home of this type.
At Moodul, we believe that a home should give you peace of mind from the very first moment: no uncertainty, no delays, and no surprises in the budget. We are committed to a system that takes care of every detail, tailored to your needs.
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