The world of construction is always changing, and more builders are using modular construction for a wide array of projects. Every year, new approaches to building are developed, new materials are utilized, and new business practices are being adopted. About 76% of architects, 84% of contractors, and 90% of engineers employ prefabricated or modular construction methods at least some of the time.
As awareness of environmental issues grows, so too does the competition in the construction industry. Contractors are looking for different ways to build so that they no longer have to rely as much on traditional methods.
Modular or prefabricated building is more and more in demand, and influential companies are using components such as prefabricated office walls, in-plant offices, and warehouse partitioning systems for new projects. The following is a discussion of what modular construction is, why it's popular, and what the future holds for this building method.
What Is Modular Construction?
In modular construction, the structure is built in sections and transported to the building site for installation. Since little to no construction takes place at the building site, space needs and the cost of labor is dramatically lowered. Most of the building is constructed in a specialist factory. Upon completion, it is brought to the site, where fitters connect the parts according to the building design.
Through a different approach, entire rooms, including offices and restrooms, may be constructed away from the building site as prefabricated units. The units are then transported to the site, where they are placed in the steel frames already built to fit them. The units are ultimately connected to power and other utilities.
Why Is Modular Construction So Popular?
A variety of factors account for the rising popularity of modular or prefab construction for things like in-plant offices, prefabricated office walls, and modular offices. Builders can get creative with modular construction while at the same time giving clients more of the features they want. A number of economic factors and benefits have convinced the industry to use modular construction:
- The global economy. With a worldwide recession, corporations and nations lack the funds they once had. The significantly lower costs of modular construction make it an attractive alternative to traditional construction methods. Governments, companies, and organizations with fewer financial resources rightly view prefab construction, such as the creation of prefabricated office walls, as an opportunity to make the most of limited budgets.
- Saturation in the construction industry. Competition in construction is fierce. A single project may attract a number of builders, all vying for the contract. In this climate, construction companies need to find new processes of working and examine methods that could put them ahead of competitors. Modular construction gives customers the flexibility to delay decisions about layout since additions can be added later. In addition to cutting down on costs, it offers quicker delivery of the finished product. All of these factors can give contractors using modular construction an edge over those using older methods.
- Solving the problem of overcrowding. As the number of people on the planet continues to grow, overcrowding will lead to inadequate housing and school facilities. Governments need homes and schools that can be put into place rapidly and often in relatively small spaces. Modular construction is the ideal solution to the problem of overcrowding. Structures can be built quickly, and they can be designed to take up less space than traditional buildings. Buildings can be erected directly on site or made in the factory and transported, offering the kind of flexibility traditional construction can't provide.
- Providing safer employee conditions. Modular construction helps to ensure worker safety in ways that traditional methods do not. Since the majority of the building takes place off site, the site where the building will eventually be assembled won't pose the usual dangers to workers. Factories in which prefabricated office walls and other components are built to observe strict health and safety standards.
The Future of Modular Construction
More and more, companies and organizations around the world are recognizing the benefits of modular construction. This will likely lead to further increases in the use of this method as the need for faster building grows.
We construct in-plant modular buildings that are uniquely suited to customers' needs. Contact our team of experienced professionals today to discuss your next building project.