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How is modular construction keeping waste out of landfills?

2019-08-30T10:58:59Z

MTX Contracts: Created page with "= How is modular construction keeping waste out of landfills? = Any ethical company in today’s world should be concerned with the environment. [https://www.mtxcontracts.co.uk/..."

= How is modular construction keeping waste out of landfills? =

Any ethical company in today’s world should be concerned with the environment. [https://www.mtxcontracts.co.uk/ MTX Contracts] see the protection of the world's resources as a core responsibility. Although modular construction is notably eco-friendly, with energy-efficient build methods, there is still a need for significant commitment to the world's resources. We understand that we need to keep the materials heading to the landfill to a minimum.

== Construction and landfill ==

The overflowing landfill is everyone's responsibility. However, the most concern is not created by the plastics, glass and paper that comes from our food waste. More than a third of all waste hitting the landfill is from the construction industry, as much construction and demolition waste is never recycled.

To put this into some context, the average new build project produces, on average, 3.9 pounds of waste per square foot. This means that new 50,000ft office block built in the centre of your town will have created almost two hundred thousand pounds of waste – or about 100 tonnes. Only about 20% of this will likely be recycled. This is without the need for demolition first; then the figures become mind-blowing.

== The advantage of modular to the environment ==

Modular buildings are constructed inside, along a production line similar to a factory. This has some distinct advantages, which allows for the preservation of materials. First, as the components are not exposed to the weather, the quality is retained. This reduces wastage. Second, as the units are produced again and again for clients, the supplies can be ordered in and stored onsite. This means that any left-over resources from one project will be used on subsequent modules.

Reports suggest that off-site production can reduce waste by 90%. The controlled environment not only protects against weather conditions but site theft. As the unit is delivered 80% complete, any work done on site is finished quickly. Therefore, the chance for onsite waste to gather is limited merely by the practicalities of time.

This is not just about the resources sent to landfill. Quicker construction times reduces the need for traffic too and from the site. Diesel fumes are a significant contributor to poor air quality. Second, the shorter construction time means energy requirements are proportionally reduced.

== Reduce the need for demolition ==

The big chink in traditional construction techniques’ armour is demolition. Demolishing the same 50,000ft building creates 4000 tonnes of waste, much of which cannot be recycled as it is contaminated with other materials. All the glass, wood, steel, and other resources that could be recycled are combined with materials that are non-renewable and non-recyclable. Therefore, all this material likely goes to landfill.

Modular construction is premised on the environmental mantra of reducing, reuse and recycle. Much of the module unit can now be built using recycled glass, steel and wood. Any materials meant for one project do not need to be discarded; they can be reused in the next project, reducing the need for purchasing more. Then, when deconstructed, which can be done as quickly as it was constructed, the parts can be recycled.

In short, the significant factor for the environment and the overflowing landfill sites is that module construction is not demolished. First, the module unit can be moved. Therefore, if there is a sudden need for a different use for the land, then there is no need to knock down the building and discard it. The unit can be deconstructed and moved to the new location. Similarly, if the building is no longer needed at all, the components can be used again. This reduces the need for the additional material and the energy required to buy new yet again.

== Summary ==

We have a responsibility to our world. Traditional construction methods are material and energy-intensive. Building onsite creates problems for the environment. The high-energy techniques, the additional transportation needs and the potential loss and degradation of materials all add to the cost to the planet. In contrast, modular construction offers a greener and sustainable building practice, which should be a priority for all constructors.

[[Category:Conservation]]

The future of healthcare construction may be modular

2019-07-25T08:44:30Z

MTX Contracts: Created page with "As the population grows, there is an ever-increasing demand for space. We need to build more but we do not want the disruption and the cost. In areas where there is emergent need..."

As the population grows, there is an ever-increasing demand for space. We need to build more but we do not want the disruption and the cost. In areas where there is emergent need for construction, such as in healthcare, there is also a need for speed. The team at [https://www.mtxcontracts.co.uk/ MTX Contracts] work diligently to resolve these construction dilemmas and are convinced the answer is modular. Here we present the reasons more and more managers are choosing modular construction.

== Cost ==

Everything comes back to price. We desire the best and the bespoke but within a budget. The future of construction is modular first and foremost because it allows control over money.

Modular construction techniques allow a manager to set the cost of the build from the start. Almost all construction projects require a 10% or more contingency budget. This is a means of guaranteeing that there is money should something go wrong or there is a delay. A traditional construction site is at the mercy of the weather. It is also dependent on the reliability of a host of suppliers and sub-contractors.

Modular is built in a factory-style environment, with the construction moving along a conveyor belt of suppliers. Much of the construction is completed indoors and uses standardised materials. This certainty means that there is always the appropriate tradespeople available exactly at the time you need them. Also, a modular constructor can form strong relationships with the supply chain, which means there will be no delay because of a lack of materials.

What you are quoted at the beginning of the build is highly likely to be the exact cost you pay at the end of a modular construction project. The same can hardly ever be said about traditional bricks and mortar construction.

== Time ==

As some of the pressure for space is urgent, then the amount of time it takes to complete the construction is a significant factor. For most, time is money. When a traditional bricks and mortar construction site begins there will be a disruption for many months. Most of the work on modular projects will be done off-site. It can take only a few months from start to finish of this construction and the amount of time on-site is limited to a bare minimum.

If you imagine an A and E needs to be extended, the hospital staff cannot afford the emergency service to be compromised by builders. Therefore, the opportunity to have much of the work done off-site is a significant positive. The disruption to traffic, the dust and the dirt, as well as all the extra personnel could prove to be dangerously close to A and E. Modular techniques are the only sensible solution for the future.

== Flexibility ==

With modular, you can make standardised choices that create a functional and stylish build. Without the expense of an architect, you will reduce costs with these pre-designed modular blocks. However, this is not to say that you cannot request bespoke features that are flexible to your needs. If you need examination rooms that offer a lot of light and air but ultimate privacy, then your modular design consultant can work with you to deliver this requirement.

Also, with modular, if you decide down the line to reconfigure your buildings, it is possible to deconstruct and move your building to the new site. This can be done with minimal disruption, offering ultimate flexibility with your space. Don’t worry, this doesn’t mean you are getting an old-fashioned pre-fab hut. Modular constructions are products of high-quality design and craftspeople. This flexibility is possible because of the different techniques, which are as permanent as your bricks and mortar, but designed so it fits together easily and so can be deconstructed in a simple manner.

== Protecting the future planet and pocket ==

The ultimate reason why modular construction methods are the approach of the future is because of the demands to protect the planet. Traditional construction methods are damaging to the environment in many ways. First, the amount of transportation and logistics required to bring materials to site adds to the carbon dioxide load. Second, where modular constructions are airtight and so energy efficient, traditional builders must acquire increasingly expensive techniques to guarantee the same.

The energy efficiency of modular builds will not only help save the planet but will also save your pocket. Electricity and gas bills sap our funds, being one of the most challenging factors on the budget sheet. Therefore, your costs will continue to be kept within your control thanks to modular construction.

[[Category:Conservation]]

Construction Problems Avoided By Using A Modular Approach

2019-04-26T09:06:09Z

MTX Contracts: Created page with "Modular construction is quickly becoming the most popular method of construction in the UK. It’s a fast, cost-effective and efficient method of development that is revolutionis..."

Modular construction is quickly becoming the most popular method of construction in the UK. It’s a fast, cost-effective and efficient method of development that is revolutionising the way that the world builds. Here we discuss the construction problems that can be avoided by using a modular approach.

BUILD TIME

Traditional on-site construction follows a linear construction method, meaning every step needs to be completed before the next one can begin. All construction is carried out onsite and can be affected by several factors, including the weather and labour inefficiencies. With so many elements to coordinate, an issue with just one part can affect the entire build schedule. As a result, traditional construction projects regularly overrun.

Concrete is a stable material in the construction industry. It’s sturdy and durable, but it is also a time-consuming material. Concrete structures can take weeks to approve due to custom engineering. Preparation for the concrete construction then needs to be carried out, materials procured, and specialised labourers and appropriate machinery sourced. The approval and preparation process alone can take months.

Concrete structures take far longer to build than newer construction technologies. Modular building projects use prefabricated elements that are assembled in a factory and transported to the site entirely or mostly complete. Allowing two critical aspects of a build to run concurrently. While the modular buildings are being constructed away from the site, foundation work can be carried out at the same time. Meaning there’s no need to worry about the delays associated with traditional construction methods. Resulting in the building being completed up to 50% quicker.

IMPACT ON YOUR BUSINESS

Carrying out construction work on the site of your business can cause significant disruption to day to day running and potentially result in a loss of income. Building off-site is having a substantial impact on the construction process. 80% of the construction activity is done away from the actual site location, and the modular buildings are transported to the site flat-packed and ready to build. Meaning there is far less disruption and noise - significantly reducing the impact physically and financially on your business.

ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS

Traditional building materials and methods are in general not eco-friendly. Concrete is not an environmentally friendly material, either to make, or to use, or even to dispose of. Paints used often contain damaging hydrocarbons and solvents, and plastics and composite timbers are also commonplace.

Modular constructions are kinder to the environment – Companies like [https://www.mtxcontracts.co.uk/ MTX Contracts] are developing modular technology that is leading the market with the use of eco-friendly and recycled building materials. Modular buildings are made to specification and approached with eco-friendly, sustainable design at the core.

ENERGY EFFICIENT

Modular buildings are incredibly efficient in comparison to traditional constructions. Modular constructions exceed the standard legislation of building regulations by enhancing standard insulation requirements. The materials used for internal walls improve sound insulation and fire-proofing, and the building structures are extremely airtight which ensures their energy-efficiency.

LESS WASTE

Research carried out by [http://www.wrap.org.uk/sites/files/wrap/Modern%20Methods%20of%20Construction%20-%20Summmary.pdf WRAP] has stated that off-site construction can reduce on-site waste by up to 90 per cent. Modular buildings are constructed within a factory, and away from site meaning, the amount of waste that is produced can be significantly reduced as fewer people are travelling to the site and modules are built directly to spec using Computer Aided Manufacturing. The modular approach also reduces the project’s carbon footprint.

COST-EFFECTIVE

Concrete is more expensive to manufacture, transport and build. Concrete structures are custom made, and engineering costs are considerable. The nature of concrete means it is a very labour-intensive material to work with resulting in less work being done by labourers in a given timeframe, increasing labour costs. Modular buildings are more cost-effective to manufacture, transport and install. Modular technologies can considerably reduce your build costs and ensure you come in on budget. The design service is often included too, so you don’t need to worry about architect costs on top of building expense.

IMPROVED HEALTH AND SAFETY

The need to work at heights has been eliminated as the main part of a modular structure is constructed off-site within a controlled factory environment following strict procedures which have been proven to improve safety.

DURABLE MATERIALS

Modular buildings are constructed with durable building materials to ensure that modular constructions are built to last. Concrete structures can deteriorate quickly, potentially losing structural integrity and aesthetic value in as short as 5-10 years. Concrete is a very heavy, difficult to handle material, that is very difficult to repair.

In comparison, modular structures can potentially offer a design life of 50 years plus. By choosing to build modular, you’ll benefit from a fast, cost-effective and efficient process with environmentally friendly materials and durability built in.

[[Category:Conservation]]