Prefab Modular Homes vs Wooden Homes: Which Is Better for India?
- Loom Craft Modular
- Aug 13
- 2 min read
When planning a holiday home, farmhouse, or resort accommodation, many property owners in India find themselves deciding between wooden cottages or log huts and modern prefab modular homes. While wooden homes have a rustic charm and timeless aesthetic, they also come with challenges in India’s varied climate. On the other hand, prefabricated modular homes—like those built by Loom Crafts—offer the same warmth and beauty of wood but with superior durability, faster installation, and minimal maintenance. Understanding the differences can help you make a smarter investment decision.

Traditional wooden homes or log huts are typically made from solid timber or laminated wooden panels. While they look beautiful, especially in hilly or forested locations, wood is vulnerable to India’s climate. High humidity during monsoons can cause swelling, warping, and fungal growth, while the hot summer sun can lead to cracking and fading. In coastal areas, salt-laden air accelerates wood deterioration. Termites and wood-boring insects are another constant threat, meaning owners often spend heavily on pest control and protective coatings every year. Over time, this maintenance adds significant cost and effort, and if not done regularly, the structure can lose both its aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
Prefab modular homes, on the other hand, are built using galvanized steel frames and cement fiber wall panels, which mimic the look of natural wood through cladding options but are completely resistant to termites, rot, and moisture damage. They are engineered to withstand extreme weather—from heavy rainfall and coastal winds to intense heat and seismic activity—without warping or weakening. Loom Crafts also offers premium exterior finishes, including wood-textured panels, so you get the rustic charm of a log cabin without the drawbacks of real timber. These materials ensure a lifespan of 20–30 years or more with very little maintenance, backed by a 20-year structural warranty.
Another major difference lies in construction speed and flexibility. Building a traditional wooden home in India often takes 6–12 months and requires skilled carpenters, which can be difficult to source in remote areas. Prefab modular homes, however, are manufactured in a controlled factory environment and installed on-site in 8–12 weeks, regardless of location. They can also be relocated or expanded easily—something that’s almost impossible with heavy log structures.
In terms of cost, wooden cottages may seem cheaper at first if using lower-grade wood, but high-quality, properly treated timber is expensive, and the ongoing maintenance costs make them more expensive over time. Prefab modular homes have a predictable upfront cost and negligible yearly upkeep, making them more economical in the long run.
For resort and hospitality projects, prefab modular cottages are the clear winner—they maintain a pristine, luxurious look for years, enhance guest comfort with better insulation, and reduce downtime due to repairs. Wooden homes may still be appealing for purely aesthetic reasons, but for long-term performance, low maintenance, and all-weather durability, Loom Crafts prefab homes are the smarter, more sustainable choice for India’s diverse landscapes.
Comments