You may have heard about modular construction before, and maybe you have even considered using it for your business. But do you actually know the ins and outs of it, and if it is exactly the right option for you? We have put together a quick guide for you so that you can have answers to any questions that you may have around the subject. Get ready to learn about modular construction types, different methods of modular construction, materials used for modular construction and much much more.

What is Modular Construction?

The various methods of modular construction include individual sections (referred to as modules) that are put together in an off-site facility in a controlled manner and then finally assembled on the building site. Utilizing production methods on the assembly line, every module is created with standard materials for building.

What Kind of Businesses Use Modular Construction?

Many different types of businesses utilize modular construction and all the benefits that it brings. See below for a short list of just some of the industries that have adopted this technique, some may surprise you:

Commercial
Corrections
Education
Government
Healthcare
Religion
Utilities

What Does the Modular Construction Workflow Look Like?

As the name might suggest, modular construction is typically said to be like building with blocks, as each section of the building is made to fit together perfectly with the next section. What this results in is a product of high quality that was made in effective, safe working environment. The main advantages of modular construction is that it is more efficient, durable and of higher quality.

Every module is manufactured to be between 12 and 14 feet wide to make sure that it can be carried on normal roads to the building site. The length of the specific module can vary due to the specific building, size requirements, and the building layout, but they are generally between 30 and 72 feet long.

Modular Construction vs Traditional Construction

The main difference between modular construction and traditional construction is that with modular construction, most of the manufacturing happens off-site in a manufacturing facility. Traditional construction involved the transport of standard building materials to the job site, and the fabrication, manufacturing, and assembly from the ground up all takes place there. As modular construction mostly happens off-site, that means that work on-site can be conducted simultaneously, this means that projects that utilize modular construction can be finished in roughly half the time.

Some Common Modular Construction Myths

As more and more businesses begin to adopt modular construction, and as its usefulness and popularity grow, the quality of modular construction has grown along with it. However, in spite of this, there are some common modular construction myths that are floating around that people are not sure of whether they are true or not. Let us help you out with some of these:

They Are Not Structurally Safe or Sound

The very same building codes that are used for all traditionally built structures are what modular buildings adhere to. They are fabricated and engineered to meet these codes, even though they are assembled in sections, and structural inspections even take place during the manufacturing process to ensure that everything is as it should be. More inspections are then carried out when the modular sections reach the job site and are assembled. This rigorous inspections process makes sure that the building is of sufficient integrity.

They Don’t Look Nice

A very common thought about modular buildings is that they are not too nice to look at. While this can be true, be advised that most permanent buildings that are built with modular construction are both attractive and functional, and they can also be multiple stories high. Like traditional construction, the exterior and interior of a modular building can be customized to the customers taste, budget, and specifications. They can also be blended into matching whatever building is beside it so that it creates a seamless look.

It’s Only For Temporary Buildings

Modular buildings that are temporary can almost always be found at buildings sites, or the yard of an expanding business. This is why it is easy to know why some people think that modular buildings are just temporary, but this is not the truth. There are any PMS (Permanent Modular Construction) choices available.

These PMC solutions are fixed to permanent foundations, which are custom for every modular building that is installed on them. The result is a cohesive, high quality building that will serve for years to come.

What Materials Are Used For Modular Construction?

There are two main materials that are used for modular construction, these are:

Concrete and steel (Type 2-B non-combustible)
Wood frame (Type V-B) constructed with standard lumber

Concrete and steel are obviously the stronger materials, but wood framed modular buildings are a much cheaper option, so the choice of building materials really depends on the specific project. Along with the wooden or concrete and steel framing, there are many other materials that go into a modular construction:

Wood trusses
Drywall or VCG (vinyl-covered gypsum) interior wall finish
VCT (vinyl composite tiles) or ceramic tiles
Solid-core doors
CPVC, pex, or copper piping/tubing
Acoustical ceiling (also known as drop ceiling)
Commercial hardware and fixtures
Carpeting (rolled carpet or carpet tiles)
Double-pane glass

What are your thoughts on modular construction? Would you consider using it on one of your projects? Engineering solutions would love to hear your thoughts and opinions on the subject in the comments below! If you need any help with your next building, be it modular or traditional, you can count on Engineering Solutions to provide you with high quality engineering consulting services. Don’t wait, give us a call now!