Construction Problems Avoided By Using A Modular Approach

[edit] Introduction

Modular construction is quickly becoming the a popular method of construction in the UK. It is 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.

[edit] 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.

For example, 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 months to develop 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.

Modular building projects use prefabricated elements that are assembled in a factory and transported to the site entirely or mostly complete. Allowing critical aspects of a build to run concurrently. While modular buildings are being constructed away from the site, foundation work can be carried out at the same time. The resulting building can be completed up to 50% quicker.

[edit] Impact on business

Carrying out construction work on the site of your business can cause significant disruption to day-to-day running and can potentially result in a loss of income. Building off-site, 80% of the construction activity is done away from the business 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.

[edit] 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 can be kinder to the environment using eco-friendly and recycled building materials. Modular buildings are made to specification and approached with eco-friendly, sustainable design at the core.

[edit] Energy efficient

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

[edit] Less waste

Research carried out by WRAP has stated that off-site construction can reduce on-site waste by up to 90%. Modular buildings are constructed within a factory, and away from site meaning, the amount of waste that is produced can be significantly reduced as modules are built directly to spec using Computer Aided Manufacturing. The modular approach also reduces the project’s carbon footprint.

[edit] Improved health and safety

The need to work at height can be 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.

[edit] About this article

This article was written by MTX Contracts, a UK-based construction specialist delivering bespoke modular building solutions and turnkey fit-outs for the healthcare and education sectors.

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1. Schedule Delays: Modular construction involves the off-site fabrication of building components in a controlled factory environment. This reduces the dependency on on-site construction activities and minimizes the potential for schedule delays caused by factors such as adverse weather conditions or labor shortages. Off-site fabrication can proceed concurrently with site preparation, enabling faster project completion.
2. Quality Control: Factory-controlled modular construction allows for rigorous quality control processes. Building components are manufactured in a controlled environment with standardized procedures, resulting in consistent quality and fewer defects. The use of specialized equipment and experienced personnel in a factory setting helps ensure that each module meets high-quality standards.
3. Cost Overruns: The modular construction approach provides better cost predictability compared to traditional on-site construction. Factory production allows for precise estimation of material and labor costs, reducing the risk of unexpected cost overruns. Additionally, the shorter construction period and streamlined process can lead to cost savings in terms of labor and site management expenses.
4. Construction Waste: Modular construction generates less construction waste compared to traditional construction methods. Precise measurement and controlled production in the factory environment result in optimized material usage. Any waste produced during the manufacturing process can be recycled or reused, minimizing environmental impact.
5. Safety Risks: By shifting a significant portion of construction activities to an off-site factory, the safety risks associated with on-site construction are reduced. Factory-controlled environments provide better safety conditions for workers, with fewer hazards such as working at heights or exposure to adverse weather conditions. This can contribute to improved worker safety and a decreased risk of accidents.
6. Design Flexibility: Modular construction offers design flexibility while maintaining efficiency. Modular building components can be customized and configured to meet specific project requirements. The use of standardized modules allows for efficient integration and assembly, ensuring that design changes or modifications can be implemented more easily and with minimal disruption.