Modular vs traditional construction
This article provides an outline of the important differences between modular and traditional construction methods:
- The term ‘traditional’ is often used to describe the types of linear construction, where each individual step is not only constructed entirely (or largely) on site, but also needs to be completed before the project can move on to the next phase.
- Modular construction is an off-site based construction method, during which individual components are manufactured (or ‘prefabricated’) in a factory, transported to the site entirely (or mostly) complete and assembled on location.
Both construction methods start in the same way – planning, design, approvals, site preparation and development. From that point forward, however, the differences begin:
Image source: Modscape
Pros and Cons of Modular Construction
Pros:
- Thanks to the ability for the project to run simultaneously on-site and in-factory, modular construction can be up to 50% quicker than traditional construction.
- As major parts of construction are handled within a factory, weather conditions are often irrelevant during the majority of the project.
- The factory-based manufacturing process allows not only for greater quality control during the manufacturing process but for many health and safety risks to be considerably reduced, if not eliminated,
- The process aims to minimise waste and reduce the project’s carbon footprint, as fewer people are travelling to the site and modules are produced directly to spec using Computer Aided Manufacturing.
- The impact on the community surrounding the construction site can be significantly reduced, due to much lower levels of noise and traffic during the project period
- The methods employed in modular construction can often benefit the energy efficiency and airtightness of the final construction
Cons:
- Access to the site must be considered from the very beginning, as it will need to allow for the delivery of large modules.
- Traditional construction allows for later design changes, while modular construction is unlikely to be able to factor these in, so early complete design sign off is crucial with clients.
- The logistics and planning of individual module assembly will need rigorous planning to ensure a smooth project.
Ultimately, each project should be considered individually. The method that is selected should match the ultimate desired outcome and the individual limitations of each project.
Featured articles and news
ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award
Entries open for submission until May 31.
UK gov apprenticeship funding from April 2024
Brief summary the policy paper updated in March.
For the World Autism Awareness Month of April.
70+ experts appointed to public sector fire safety framework
The Fire Safety (FS2) Framework from LHC Procurement.
Project and programme management codes of practice
CIOB publications for built environment professionals.
The ECA Industry Awards 2024 now open !
Recognising the best in the electrotechnical industry.
Sustainable development concepts decade by decade.
The regenerative structural engineer
A call for design that will repair the natural world.
Buildings that mimic the restorative aspects found in nature.
CIAT publishes Principal Designer Competency Framework
For those considering applying for registration as a PD.
BSRIA Building Reg's guidance: The second staircase
An overview focusing on aspects which most affect the building services industry.
Design codes and pattern books
Harmonious proportions and golden sections.
Introducing or next Guest Editor Arun Baybars
Practising architect and design panel review member.
Quick summary by size, shape, test, material, use or bonding..
Comments