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11/16/2003 Archived Entry: "THE WARDCRAFT WAY...more on housing"

THE WARDCRAFT WAY...more on housing

Those needing "affordable" housing ought to read the article that appeared today in the Salina Journal. The manufacturer of Wardcraft housing boasts affordability and quality in a short queue of as little as seven weeks. A similar 1,500 square foot house, ranch-style house built on site would take six months or longer and cost more.

There are several Wardcraft houses in town, and Kohls Construction is still the rep for this company. If you are thinking "mobile home"...think again. These are well-built stick houses, framed with 2 x 6 lumber. The walls are insulated to R-23 and the ceilings to R-38. Every home is fitted with central heat and air and maintenance-free, steel-sided soffits and facias. The exterior is 7/16 wall sheeting with a layer of 1/2 inch Styrofoam before the siding goes on.

They stream-line build these houses indoors in Clay Center after buying materials in volume, thus saving the owner big bucks. You can go visit and watch them build your house.

Wardcraft warranties the completed houses for one year. You get quality with these homes.

Zach Jones, of Wardcraft, says they build houses for $47 to $66 a square foot. This does not include the cost of the foundation, basement and garage or extras. If you compare apples to apples, a Wardcraft house will match the quality and be cheaper than a site built house.

Now, a site-built house will cost at least $100 a square foot...and probably closer to $125 here in Ellsworth and other small towns. Check with Ralph Doubrava or Kenny Kohls. Of course you get more options on design and size with on-site constructed house. But if you are looking for affordable, stout construction take a look at Wardcraft. Kenny can refer you to Wardcraft homeowners in town.

So, what is the problem here? If we are short 3 bedrooms, two bath homes, then anyone who can afford to buy a house should be able to afford a Wardcraft to fit their budget. We can't just give houses away. That makes more sense to me than building houses that don't sell, or are sold at a tremendous loss, because they aren't what buyers want or the construction is faulty, to use a conservative word.

Wardcraft can provide a house that meets the requirements of the buyer at the most affordable price. You get what you pay for in a house...if you pick a responsible builder with a sound reputation. It's a matter of what people can afford. Call Kenny or Ralph for good advice when it comes to home construction.