Many people, when they hear the term "modular home", automatically think manufactured home" or "on- frame modular home". A, "True Modular" home is neither. True modular homes have all of the characteristics of stick-built homes and must pass the same code requirements as stick-built homes.

True modular homes have more flexibility as compared to on-frame modular homes. Another difference is - true modular homes don't have a steel undercarriage supporting the floor system like on-frame modular homes or HUD-code manufactured homes. True modular homes are stick-built homes constructed in a controlled environment and transported to the job site 90% to 95% completed.

There are about 100 true modular or custom modular home producers that assemble sections of modular units inside factories. Most modular units are made in complete, box like sections. Multiple-section units and stack-on units are common

True modular homes or "system-built" homes are built using an engineered approach to produce structures in a more efficient and cost effective method. Instead of the old-fashioned construction method, (stick-built) most of the work is pre-fabricated at an off-site climate controlled factory. As each sub-section or modular unit is finished it is transported to the building site on a flat bed truck with no steel undercarriage supporting the floor system. Once on site each modular unit is constructed together using the same methods that stick-built homes use.

Framing for a modular home is the same as a traditional home except that true modular homes use 20 to 30 percent more material to guarantee a safe trip to the site. Basically a true modular home is over engineered to withstand the transportation process. This is also true for on- frame modular homes and to a lesser degree HUD code homes. True modular homes are built in a climate-controlled environment using the same high quality materials used in traditionally built homes.