Basics of Modular Buildings

‍Modular Buildings Construction Process

Modular Building Construction is a construction process that relies on the components, being assembled in a factory, under controlled conditions and then being finalised on-site. This type of construction process is referred to as “off-site manufacture”. By 2024, this will have a global worth of around $142 billion.    

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Origins of Modular Construction Practices 

Modular construction has been around for a long time. The first recorded Modular Buildings Construction was around 1624 when an English fisherman brought a house with him to Cape Ann (present – United States). It was disassembled and reassembled several times. The new generation of offsite construction aims to push boundaries of design, engineering and sustainability – that will prove essential for construction and its image in the coming years. 

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Benefits of Modular Construction

Contractors in UK are implementing modular and prefabrication practices into their construction operations.  

Quicker Turnaround 

• One advantage of offsite construction is the time on site is minimised and the project length can be reduced. 
• Subcontractors will not have to wait around for another subcontractor to finish the job. 
• The builds are efficient, planned and utilise modern technology to ensure there are no delays once construction begins on final site.  

Sustainable Projects  

• 67% less energy is required to produce a modular building compared to a traditionally built building. (Source: The Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP).  
• Modular projects being completed quicker equals energy usage is reduced at the project site.
• According to WRAP, 90% reduction in materials can be achieved through use of modular construction.  
• Modular buildings can be disassembled and moved elsewhere. 
• Minimisation of waste via cyclical method of construction along with durability and reusability are additions to sustainability of projects.      

Repeatable Quality

• Human involvement is inevitably prone to mistakes. 
• Reducing onsite construction and increasing checks in factory setting and improving first-time quality is a big factor for quality in modular construction.     
• Contractors working alongside technology have an advantage when it comes to delivering repeatable quality for its customer and end-users.  

Modular Construction is impacting and influencing the construction management industry. Today, modular construction is mainly reserved for residential projects but the possibilities are many.  

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