12-15-2009, 04:54 AM
The structure itself is built to a standard that seems to merge California, Florida, and Alaska into one. Probably stuff like wind, earthquakes, and transport. The only thing that I was confused about is the termite protection.
Just about any exterior, roofing, doors, windows, etc are available. Interior quality is the whole boat-load of options you pick from.
Your right, transportation was the issue. Pasha is the ocean transporter and I think their limit is 14 wide, 60 long, and 16 high with 20 ton limit. But you need to negotiate the Hawaii roads and see what is the max size and weight you can transport and maneuver from dock to property. Afterwards you have to find a mainland factory willing to meet Hawaii standards and have the features you want. Very difficult. They also will make you responsible for all transportation beyond San Diego and the button upping of the unit(s) on site.
I did some cost comparison and when everything was taken into consideration, the savings wasn't there on the low or mid range units. If you went with a multi unit 2,000 sq foot plus unit with lots of custom feature and higher end appliances and fixtures, the cost per square foot (with transportation and all non-site fees) was very favorable over stick built.
But, overall, I don’t think it’s a real option until they either get a factory in Hawaii, or design homes better suited for Hawaii’s infrastructure.
Just about any exterior, roofing, doors, windows, etc are available. Interior quality is the whole boat-load of options you pick from.
Your right, transportation was the issue. Pasha is the ocean transporter and I think their limit is 14 wide, 60 long, and 16 high with 20 ton limit. But you need to negotiate the Hawaii roads and see what is the max size and weight you can transport and maneuver from dock to property. Afterwards you have to find a mainland factory willing to meet Hawaii standards and have the features you want. Very difficult. They also will make you responsible for all transportation beyond San Diego and the button upping of the unit(s) on site.
I did some cost comparison and when everything was taken into consideration, the savings wasn't there on the low or mid range units. If you went with a multi unit 2,000 sq foot plus unit with lots of custom feature and higher end appliances and fixtures, the cost per square foot (with transportation and all non-site fees) was very favorable over stick built.
But, overall, I don’t think it’s a real option until they either get a factory in Hawaii, or design homes better suited for Hawaii’s infrastructure.