FAQs

A modular building refers to structures built off-site in a controlled indoor environment. The building's components, or modules, are then transported to the property to be installed on a permanent foundation with finishing work completed.

Modular buildings are built to International Building Codes and state or third-party inspected to their approved plan sets.

Taking the concept of modular construction a step further, our process utilizes modular manufacturing methodologies with station-based production lines that are outfitted with technology to optimize traditional labor and reduce bottlenecks. This gives our clients consistency in quality, timelines and cost.

Our facility provides a climate-controlled environment allowing us to build year round and eliminate moisture exposure to our building materials, essential for projects throughout the Western United States.

Stack Modular Development uses both volumetric steel and wood based framing materials on our two production lines.

We specialize in both single-family, multi-family, and supportive residential housing projects as well as commercial construction including multi-location expansions and hospitality. We can adapt nearly any plan for modular construction or partner with our clients to develop modular master plans.

Our scope of work is focusing on the building itself. The project will likely have a developer and/or general contractor responsible for coordinating the site work and installation.

While a majority of our projects are based in the Western United States due to our location in Salt Lake City, Utah, we do have clients outside this area that choose to work with us due to the benefits of our process, including reduced project management resources, costs, and timelines compared to traditional construction and local conditions.

An added benefit of our location is that Salt Lake City is a transportation hub with advantages for logistics coordination.

Modular construction can be less expensive than traditional construction. We especially see cost savings in locations with tight labor markets and limited seasonal building windows, as well as for large-scale developments with repeatable designs.

We will provide a detailed estimate and scope of work for our client's project budgets.

In addition to the modular building(s), clients are responsible for their architecture and engineering, permitting, site preparation, transportation, and installation costs. These would also be costs for a traditional onsite construction project, minus the module transportation and installation.

Depending on the complexity of the project, our manufacturing timeline ranges from 4-12 weeks. Excluded in that estimate is the pre-construction preparation process of architectural, engineering, permitting, and procurement. One of the great advantages of modular construction is that our manufacturing process can commence simultaneously with site work, shortening the overall project timeline.

The module(s) arrives at the property on semi-trucks. The level of completion will be driven by the design and agreed upon scope of work, but typically 85-95% complete. The module is craned into place on its foundational system, connected to onsite utilities, and other finishing work is completed by the onsite general contractor.

Factory-built housing follows a bifurcated permitting process. The site improvements are permitted by the local enforcement agency. The factory-built modular building is reviewed and permitted by a state-approved agency or third party. Stack Modular Development manages the permitting process for the modular building, and the client or general contractor manages the permitting process for their site work.

When a client inquires about the feasibility of their project, we start with an Intro Call to learn more about the goals, site, and timeline. If a client already has plans and specs, we can proceed to a detailed estimate. If the client is in need of plans, we can refer them to our architecture and engineering partner to develop plans for us to bid. Once the bid is accepted, we move to contract and deposit, which secures the project in the production schedule. The permitting process takes place. When the permit is approved, we collect the manufacturing deposit and begin procuring materials and building. The client and/or general contractor receive regular communication throughout the process. A final walkthrough is coordinated, then the unit is wrapped and secured for shipping to the site.

We are inspired to build using materials and practices that are truly sustainable. We guide our clients when possible to designs and selections to maximize energy efficiency and durability.

We offer a partnership with LGCY Solar to our clients for factory-installed solar and battery backup packages.

The construction industry contributes up to 40% of all landfill waste in the United States. Modular construction dramatically reduces building waste, with our estimates showing a 90% reduction compared to traditional construction.

Yes. While no building can be fireproof, we have taken the following steps to create more resistant structures using CalFire and other western state’s recommendations and requirements.

Yes, informed lenders know the benefits of factory-built construction, so there is no difference in appraising or financing a modular building. Your appraiser needs to know that your building is modular, not manufactured, to be sure that they are assessing it correctly. Since mobile and manufactured buildings are built to comply with lower building standards, they have a tougher appraisal process and generally qualify for higher interest rates. In contrast, modular buildings are built to higher standards and can benefit from a smoother appraisal and more favorable rates. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac treat modular homes the same as on-site construction.

You are invited to tour our facility to see our modular manufacturing process and current projects. Please contact us to schedule.