Prefab vs. Stick Built ADUs: Which is Best for You?

If you plan to add an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to your property, you might be stuck between choosing a prefab ADU or a stick-built one. Both options have pros and cons; the best choice depends on your needs, budget, and timeline. Don’t worry if you’re confused because we will discuss the differences between these two. So keep reading to get rid of your confusion!

What is a Prefab ADU?

A prefab ADU is a short form of “prefabricated ADU”. It’s a new way to build small homes or extra living spaces that is different from the usual construction methods. Instead of building everything from scratch on-site, prefabricated ADUs are made in a factory and then transported to your location for assembly.

These ADUs can also be customized as per your needs, but they generally offer fewer customization options than traditional stick-built homes. The construction of these homes is held under a highly controlled environment and they are often ready for delivery within weeks.

This makes them faster to build and easier to set up compared to traditional homes, where construction can take a lot longer and be more complicated. Because of this speed and simplicity, more people are choosing prefabricated ADUs as a popular option for adding extra living space or housing.

What are the Types of Prefab ADUs?

There are different types of ADU prefab homes from which you can choose:

• Modular ADUs: These are built in large sections in a factory and then transported to your site. Once they arrive, they're put together on a foundation just like a traditional house.
• Panelized ADUs: These ADUs come as panels (like walls or roofs), which are put together at your property. They offer more customization but require more on-site labor.
• Manufactured Homes: These homes are built entirely in a factory and transported to your property. They are fully assembled when they arrive but may have design limitations.

How Much Do Prefabricated ADUs Cost?

The cost can vary based on its size, what materials are used materials, and how much customization. On average, prefab ADUs cost between $100,000 to $250,000, including delivery and installation. Costs can increase if you choose high-end finishes or if your property requires a lot of site preparation.

Here's a rough estimate of how much they cost:

• Modular ADUs: Typically cost between $150,000 and $200,000, including setup.
• Panelized ADUs: Range from $100,000 to $150,000.
• Kit ADUs: These are usually the most affordable option and range from $50,000 to $100,000. But in this type, you might need to handle more of the construction work yourself.

Where Do I Buy a Prefabricated ADU?

You can purchase the best prefabricated ADU from companies that specialize in factory-built homes. To find a reputable seller, you can visit a site like Livelargetech.com. This site provides useful information about companies that specialize in prefab homes such as reviews, recommendations, and details about their products and services.

Prefab vs. Stick-Built: What’s the Difference?

Before you decide, it’s very important to understand the key differences between prefab ADUs and stick-built ADUs. So now let’s compare these two!

Frequently Asked Questions!

Are prefabricated ADUs worth it?

Yes, prefab ADUs are worth it if you want a quicker and cost-effective solution for adding extra living space. They are ideal if customization isn't your top priority.

How long does it take to build a prefabricated ADU?

Most prefabricated ADUs are built and installed within a few weeks to a few months, depending on customization and site preparation.

Do these ADUs come with warranties?

Yes, many of the best prefab ADU manufacturers offer warranties and it usually ranges from 10 to 15 years on major components like the structure and roof.

How do I maintain a prefabricated ADU?

Maintaining a prefabricated ADU is similar to maintaining a traditional home. You can clean the ADU regularly to keep it looking nice. Plus, having inspections and doing any repairs that are needed will help you maintain its condition over time.