Proponents of modular homes have long maintained that the building system produces structures that are far stronger than site built housing. For instance, the modular sections are well built to withstand the stresses of transportation and being lifted by a crane, drywall is often both glued and screwed to wall studs and triple-headers are used over window openings and around stairwells.

Recently, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) confirmed that modular homes withstood a hurricane far better than site-built housing. In it’s report “building Performance: Hurricane Andrew in Florida,” assessment teams from FEMA concluded that modular homes withstood the 131-135 mph winds of Category 4 storm in August 1992 far better than site-built housing.

“Overall, relatively minimal structural damage was noted in modular housing developments. The module-to-module combination of units appears to have proven to be an inherently rigid system that performed much better than conventional residential framing. It was evident in both the transverse and longitudinal directions of the modular buildings,” cites the study.

To receive a free copy of the report call 1-800-480-2520, and request publication number FIA-22, item 30180.