Cottages have been used as primary dwellings for millenia. However, recreational cottages are a more recent trend, being used as vacation homes near picturesque locations, far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. As technology and affluence rises, cottage building has also evolved from being a basic, cabin-like dwelling to a modern home-away-from-home, adorned with all the latest tech and creature comforts that we’re used to in our primary residence.
The latest advancement in cottage building is what’s called “prefab cottages”. These custom built cottages are prefabricated in a separate facility and can be transported to the building site for a very fast and efficient construction. By incorporating passive house designs and principles, these cottages can become extremely energy efficient as well – the ultimate form being ‘net zero houses’.
There are a whole host of benefits that come with prefab cottages. Let’s take a look at them below:
Benefits of Prefab Cottages
One would think prefab cottages would be a new idea, however they are over a century old! However, their popularity has recently surged due to advances in construction technology, sustainable building practices, and the rising demand for affordable housing solutions while providing a host of other benefits, such as:
Affordability: Relatively economical as compared to traditional construction.
Quicker Construction: You can get it ready in weeks, not months.
Environmental: Less waste and more energy-efficient design.
Everything has Options: Design, layout, and finishes, you can build your own custom built cottage.
Efficiency: Passive prefab cottages are built using the same principles as prefab passive houses, which means they are superbly energy efficient, which is particularly important in areas with unreliable or non-existent power grids.
Prefab Cottages Price in Canada
While prefab cottages are found across Canada, there are some regions that are more popular for building cottages. For instance, cottage country in Ontario includes parts such as Muskoka, the Kawartha Lakes, Haliburton, and Parry Sound, among many others.
When it comes to pricing, prefab cottage prices in Canada can be broken down as follows:
Price Per Square Foot: $450
Cottage Size: 1500 square feet
Cottage Layout: 3 Bed, 2 Bath
Product: Complete Cottage, ready to be delivered to the site location.
Total Cost: $675,000
This will be complete pricing of a finished prefab cottage, ready for delivery to the construction site.
Please keep in mind that these prices and details differ based on a multitude of factors and cannot be used as guaranteed pricing since each cottage is a custom built cottage with its own requirements, and therefore, its own custom quote.
Building a Prefab Cottage
Building a prefab cottage can be an exciting and rewarding project, but it requires careful planning and consideration. Some of the tips for the first time buyers of prefab cottages in ontario for modern design and energy efficiency are as follows:
- Understand the Types of Prefab Cottages: Before starting a project of building a prefab cottage, one should be clear of which type of prefab cottages will suit best for their needs. There are conventional cottages, then there are passive cottages, net-zero cottages, custom built cottages, etc.
- Research Building Codes and Permits: Next step is to check zoning laws and building permits for your location. In Canada, prefab cottages have to comply with the National Building Code (NBC) and with local provincial standards. It is also recommended to verify whether your area has restrictions on prefab or modular homes and that the design meets not only the Canadian Building Code (NBC) but also local codes.
- Select the Most Suitable Location: It is recommended to get a number of research done for the location like the soil testing to confirm land suitability for construction, ensuring that the site has availability of utilities such as water, electricity and sewage connection and lastly that the site is accessible for transporting the prefab sections.
- Choose a Good Quality Prefab Manufacturer: When choosing a good quality prefab manufacturer,there are a number of factors to look for:
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- Certified builders with good reviews.
- Check if the company offers customization options.
- Ask for a detailed quote that breaks down the cost into delivery and installation.
- Develop a Budget for All Costs: It is vital to have a budget in mind which must include:
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- As mentioned earlier, prefab cottages cost around $450 per square feet
- Delivery and Installation estimated between $5,000-$20,000 depending on distance.
- Utilities Hookups which includes costs of plumbing, electrical, and septic systems.
- Landscaping and Driveway allows for outdoor improvements.
- Options for Customization: Custom built cottages provide a huge range of customizations as per your liking. You can decide on whether you need an open concept or traditional floor plan or type of insulation, solar panels and energy-efficient windows for maximized energy efficiency. You can also decide on the interior finishes for the flooring, cabinetry and fixtures.
- Think About What is Required for All-Year Living: When thinking about prefab cottages in Ontario, modern design is mostly sought out by customers but don’t forget to think about the requirements for all year round living. Proper insulation, deciding on heat source, whether wood stove, propane, or electric is your preference is also important. Also keep in mind waterproofing and roofing which prevents ice dams and snow accumulation damage.
- Plan for Maintenance and Warranty: Determine if the prefab builder offers some structural warranty (usually 10 years). Some other warranties to look for are:
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- Seasonal Maintenance includes rain gutters, roofing, and insulation inspections.
- Pest Control is important especially in the case of areas located in or near a forest.
- Financing and Insurance: It is a good idea to include a loan or mortgage for the construction of prefabs. Also, obtain home insurance covering modular and prefab structures.
- Construction Timelines: It takes usually a few months to build the custom built cottages, the timeline is as follows:
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- Factory Build: 6-12 weeks
- Site Preparation and Foundation: 2-4 weeks
- Delivery and Assembly: 1-2 weeks
- Utilities and Finishing Work: 2-4 weeks
In short, to have an eco-friendly prefab cottage, consider adding solar panels for energy efficiency, rainwater collection for irrigation or non-potable use, and composting toilets to reduce water waste. To prepare for Canadian winters, insulate pipes, seal windows, and install snow guards to protect your cottage from heavy snowfall. When furnishing, choose multifunctional furniture to maximize space and keep the interior practical yet comfortable. Lastly, maintain your cottage efficiently by keeping a maintenance log to track repairs, seasonal updates, and necessary improvements over time. Most of these aspects are covered in a passive prefab cottage, so make sure to talk to a passive house builder on how they can make your cottage as energy-efficient as possible.
Summary
Prefab cottages are a cost-effective, efficient, and customizable way to build your dream house, whether for seasonal use or year-round living. By understanding the different types of prefab structures, researching zoning laws, selecting the right location, and budgeting for all expenses, you can ensure a smooth building process. From eco-friendly features like solar panels to winterizing for harsh Canadian climates, thoughtful planning will enhance the durability and comfort of your cottage.
We at Simple Life Home, provide you with the best affordable options for building your prefab cottage or prefab house. We provide complete solutions from kits to customized prefab cottages making us the best prefab builder in Ontario. Reach out to us and let’s make your dream come true together!