1. Is House in a Boxtm a prefab / modular built house?
Absolutely not!  Although the purchase of a House in a Box is almost as simple as buying a prefab/modular home, when completed it is no different than a custom designed home. We deliver the materials for the model, created and chosen by you, to be constructed on-site, by either yourself or by contracting with one of our two manufacturer’s (84 Lumber/ProBuild) to complete your home. Specific models may have roof trusses which are manufactured in a controlled environment and, if chosen, typical floor systems comprised of pre-manufactured joists (TJI or similar) in lieu of dimensional lumber. HIAB designed our product to comply with the 2009 International Residential Code as well as the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code. Using the materials we make available and building techniques employed merely simplifies the process of building your own custom home.
2. How much do they cost?
See our Quote Builder for our latest prices. You can build out your custom unit for pricing by clicking here.
3. What exactly is included when I purchase a House in a Boxtm?
A House in a Boxtm home is available for purchase in a variety of different packages to provide you with the maximum flexibility in achieving your goal. The “shell package” is the base option which includes all wood framing members to construct the floors, walls, and roof. The “exterior finish package” includes all exterior finishes (except masonry veneer) that would be applied to the building shell. The “interior finish package” includes all interior finishes, fixtures, and appliances needed to finish out the interior of your home. Combine all three of these packages for a complete home, just add furniture!
A detailed list of the materials included in each package can be found in the “What’s Included” section by clicking here.
4. What else would I need to build a House in a Boxtm?
You would need a foundation system upon which to build your House in a Boxtm. It is recommended that you hire a general contractor to construct the foundations and assemble the House in a Boxtm. Rough electrical and plumbing materials (i.e. wire, piping, fittings that are in the walls) are purposely not included in order to allow your local contractor the flexibility to work with materials they are most comfortable with.
Once again you can access a more detailed list under “Provided by Owner” that is found in the “What’s Included” tab of houseinabox.com.
5. Why is installation through 84 Lumber/Probuild recommended?
Although labor and installation is not required it is highly recommended. By using either of our two manufacturers, 84 Lumber or Probuild, the work would be fully warrantied. Installation of the shell would include all the labor and materials (lumber, nails, glue, etc.) to complete the shell package. (The construction crews are trained to give special detail to such items as window installation. If windows are not sealed properly, moisture intrusion can occur, and cause significant damage many years later.) If you are completing the house system with our exterior and interior choices you can again use one of our manufacturer’s recommended builders guaranteeing your build.
6. Can I customize my House in a Boxtm?
There is no limit to how House in a Boxtm homes can be customized since you have the option of purchasing the shell only and selecting your own interior and/or exterior finishes.
7. How long does it take to order, receive, and build a House in a Boxtm?
From the time we receive your deposit and the review period has expired, we will produce your order in 30 days. Shipping may take a few extra days depending on how close we are to your point of use. Assembly by competent professionals, subject to level of options purchased and local inspection requirements, may add several weeks to the process for completion.
8. Where can I build a House in a Boxtm?
House in a Boxtm product may be built anywhere residential/commercial zoning allows. Local governmental jurisdictions and homeowner association requirements should be reviewed to insure compliance.
9. Do you have sales associates and what are there roles?
Although we are using new technology (the internet and close to point of use on time delivery and manufacturing techniques), we didn’t want you to be left dealing solely in an electronic universe. That’s why House in a Boxtm will assign a real person to work with you directly; answering questions and resolving any issues that may surface from time to time.
10. What happens if I run into any problems?
Your assigned House in a Boxtm customer service consultant is always available to assist and remedy any situation that may arise from start to finish.
11. How tall is the silhouette on the floor plan page?
6ft. On the interior 3D animation, the person is 5′ 8″.
12. What size are the beds in the floor plans?
King size: 6′ wide x 6’8″ long
13. Can I have a basement in my House in a Box home?
Yes, all House in a box homes can easily accept a basement with outside access for all types of uses. Further, many of our units can accept a basement with internal access that would dramatically increase the living space of the home. A fully finished basement could be incorporated into any of the 2 story models (ie models that already have a stair between floors).
14. What is the standard R value of the insulation provided in the walls of a HIAB?
R-19.
15. What is the standard R value of the insulation provided in the ceilings of a HIAB?
R-38.
16. Can the R value of the insulation in the walls of a HIAB be more than R-19?
Yes, you can achieve a higher R-value in the walls by installing spray foam insulation (not supplied by HIAB).
17. Can the R value of the insulation in the ceilings of a HIAB be more than R-38?
Yes, you can achieve a higher R-value in the ceilings by installing spray foam insulation (not supplied by HIAB).
18. Why are HIAB units considered “green”?
HIAB are inherently “green” based on their small footprint; a smaller house requires less materials to build and uses less energy to heat and cool.  While the former is a one-time event, the later is an ongoing energy saving reality. The standard specs for HIAB units are energy efficient, however, substitutions can be made to make the units as energy efficient as desired.  Examples include substituting spray foam insulation for batt insulation or installing triple pane windows in lieu of double pane windows. HIAB homes are intended to be constructed with materials procured from one of our affiliated materials providers who have hundreds of locations nationwide, this helps reduce transportation emissions and supports the local economy..
19. Can I have one gift wrapped
Absolutely, what color bow? Actually your House in a Box shell of framing materials and components, including windows and exterior doors, may arrive on pallets, with protected covering, and ready for immediate assembly on your pre-existing foundation. The balance of your shipment, with your finished materials, will arrive at the same time or a few days later when the shell has been completed, subject to your schedule.
20. Can House In A Box ship my home to Canada or overseas?
Yes, our homes can be containerized and shipped to your build site anywhere in the world.  For more information on international shipments, please visit our international page here.