“When consumers first see our homes, they don’t even realize
our homes are not stick built. When they begin to understand the durability
and quality advantages possible in a modern, controlled environment, that’s
when a homeowner starts feeling very comfortable with the benefits of
choosing a modular home,” said Ballard. Materials are cut with precision
factory saws and cutters. Fasteners can be driven to precise depths. Factory
inspections are done at every construction phase from floor framing to
final paint application.
With two manufacturing operations of more than 90,000 square feet, Haven produces about one home a day. Homes are constructed of as few as two or as many as 20 “boxes” and most are two stories ranging anywhere from 1,100 to 10,000 sq. ft. Ballard’s description of a recently built 10,000 square foot Haven Home defines customization. “This home had seven tile bathrooms, a custom cherry kitchen and library, custom molding throughout and it was covered in cedar siding,” he said. “Most of our homes leave the factory 80% finished, with drains, electrical, crossover finish areas and carpeting the only items to be completed on site,” Ballard said.
The modular home uses the strongest of construction materials and methods, because the units must be hauled tothe site and lifted by crane onto the foundation. The 2”x 6” platform framing system must be sturdy enough to withstand forces equivalent to that of a good size earthquake. Modular houses are completely enclosed under the factory roof, so the framing is not exposed to the weather on a construction site.
“Energy
efficiency is easy to achieve because components are precisely assembled,
minimizing gaps or holes
where air and water could get insidewalls,” explains Ballard. “We
can also wrap Tyvek® HomeWrap® very efficiently
over the plywood sheathing, completely taping seams, cutting and folding
around window and door openings for the best protection,” he said.
The company switched from Typar® to Tyvek®
HomeWrap® protective material several years ago for both
home and light commercial buildings, such as motels, medical clinics and
nursing homes. “Our reputation and our builders’ reputations
depend on our integrity and operating principles,” said Ballard.
“We choose quality brands backed by trusted companies, like Andersen
for windows and DuPont Tyvek® for a weather wrap.”
Haven Homes maintains its competitive edge by staying ahead of construction
design knowledge and meeting changing consumer preferences. “I was
very impressed with the product and construction testing from DuPont and
my consumers know and see Tyvek® HomeWrap®
in traditional construction,” he said.
Tyvek® Weatherization Systems form a secondary, protective
building envelope. As a breathable membrane, Tyvek® HomeWrap®
is engineered with a balance of properties for maximum wall system performance.
Tyvek® HomeWrap® helps stop air flow through
wall cavities; helps hold out bulk water and wind-driven rain; and is
breathable to allow moisture vapor to escape from inside walls. The result
is a more comfortable, nergy efficient home or building with far fewer
chances for damage from the effects of water and moisture.
Tyvek® HomeWrap®, a recognized leader in
weatherization membranes for more than 25 years, is adding to the comfort
and peace of mind for many consumers now enjoying or considering a modular
home. Haven Homes’ quality engineering and excellent service is
building a reputation for the industry, each time a family chooses modular.