Introduction
An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a smaller living space built next to a primary living space. An example of this can be an in-law suite next to a main house.
In Colorado, ADUs have become a popular method of creating living spaces in homes. This is attributed to the shortage of homes, loose zoning laws in areas like Denver, as well as competitive prices in areas like Fort Collins.
If you want an efficient and affordable method of creating more living space, modular/traditional units are the way to go. Be it a home office or a granny flat, the possibilities are endless.
What is an ADU and How Does It Work?
As mentioned above, an ADU is a secondary dwelling flat built on a main property. They have variations such as a granny flat, casita, in-law suite, flex flat, and a tiny home.
Built on the same property as your main residence, a modular flat is a smaller unit that can have various uses depending on your needs.
ADUs exist in a plethora of forms, with most having their own kitchen, bathrooms, and entrances. These facilities are ideal for families and can be attractive from a rental perspective.
In Colorado, there are two main types of ADUs allowed, detached and attached:
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Attached
As the name suggests, attached ADUs are constructed in a way that at least one wall must be attached to the main house. This structure is ideal for a home office or a gym.
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Detached
A detached ADU has no walls attached to the main house and is its own separate living space. This structure is ideal for a guest house or cross-generational living as a result of its added privacy.
The Difference Between a Modular and Traditional ADU
Are you a Colorado homeowner interested in building an ADU but aren’t sure how to choose between modular and traditional? Let’s break it down to help you decide.
Modular ADUs, which are factory-produced, offer lower costs due to faster building times and standardized processes, leading to high-quality, affordable ADUs.
Traditional ADUs are built on-site, meaning customers have full flexibility in customization. They might take longer to build, but are tailored to the customer’s preference.
Depending on what your priority is, taking these differences into account can help factor in making the correct choice.
Modular ADU: The Pros
Colorado’s accessory dwelling units are gaining popularity due to affordable prices and high quality. Let’s break down why a modular unit is the right choice.
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Faster Construction Time
Modular ADUs produced in a factory use standardized methods, reducing construction time and delays caused by weather or traffic. On-site foundations being built simultaneously make installation quicker.
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Lower cost
Since modular ADUs are produced in factories, labour costs are reduced. Due to standardized production, modular homes are built in a short amount of time, reducing the labour hours, thus reducing the overall cost.
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Quality Assurance
Modular ADUs are built in controlled factory environments where production occurs in a streamlined process, ensuring that every build features a high-quality, durable design.
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Sustainable Developments
Modular units feature sustainable and energy-efficient ADUs. With a focus on being eco-friendly, these units are ideal as factory-built builds ensure materials are not wasted. This ensure that less energy is used in production.
Traditional ADU: The Pros
Areas such as Fort Collins have competitive housing prices. Adding an extra unit allows for rental space in such places. But why choose to build a traditional ADU?
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Custom ADU
As the ADU is built onsite, the homeowners and builders will have full control over the design. Whether you choose a granny flat or a mother-in-law suite, customizations are up to you, so you truly receive what you ask for.
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Property Value
Traditional ADUs, such as In-Law Cottages, are recognized as more permanent as they feature a traditional method of construction. This is ideal as it can lead to higher resale value, an exciting advantage for homeowners.
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Integrated Appearance
Since traditional ADUs are built onsite, they can be customized entirely by using the same materials and styles. If the traditional unit matches the layout of the main house, then a higher resale value can be attributed.
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Adaptability
With traditional ADUs featuring a conventional construction method, it is easier to build in homes with irregular spaces that have uneven terrain, as the construction method can be adapted to fit the space around the home.
When to Choose Which?
| Modular Accessory Dwelling Unit | Traditional Accessory Dwelling Unit |
| You want a living space fast | You want to customize your ADU |
| You want an affordable price | You want a higher resale value |
| You want an extra durable living space | You want your unit to match the look of your house |
| You want a sustainable solution | You want to build an ADU on an uneven space |
| You want a weather-resistant solution | You want to keep your extended family close |
| You want a flexible living solution | You want returns on rent |
Why is Olerra best for both modular and traditional ADUs?
Building an ADU in Colorado is an ideal choice for homeowners, as it leads to several advantages, such as allowing generations of families to live in the same vicinity. By building an additional unit, you can enjoy the benefits of a passive income stream.
A secondary unit generates more living space without the cost of moving houses. These units can be tailored to suit your needs, such as turning the ADU into a living room, an office space, or a place for guests to stay.
Many developers only provide one method of development, whereas Olerra specialises in both modular and traditional units. Some of Olerra’s traditional builds include In-Law Cottages and Granny Suites, encouraging cross-generational living.
Olerra also features modular ADUs such as Casitas or Backyard homes, which are factory-built and thus offer assured quality, whilst saving 25% of costs as opposed to what other pre-fab competitors offer.
Whether it be a traditional or a modular ADU, Olerra ensures state-of-the-art quality featuring steel frame construction, construction in under 3-6 months, beautiful spaces, and an affordable cost. Our models all feature these exciting advantages.
Book your consultation today to find out more