Modular buildings have undoubtedly changed the landscape in the construction and building sector, and their popularity is growing even as we speak. Developers and contractors are increasingly turning to the modular mode of construction as it takes less time and warrants a lot less effort than traditional building construction. But if you are thinking of taking advantage of modular construction for your own home or building, what should you know about it? What is it, and what makes it better compared to traditional structures? Here’s your essential guide to modular buildings and why they are so popular today.
What is it?
A modular or pre-fabricated building is just as its name implies – it consists of modules which the experts have pre-built to form a structure. Each of the modules that make up a building is built according to precise specifications, with each section perfectly adhering to the next. The modules are already made and built before being transported to the site where the building is constructed. Once the modules are at the site, they are assembled to make the complete structure. Based on the building's design, you can have the modules stacked, made from end to end, or laid side by side. The good aspect about modular buildings is that you can choose to have them created with the use of various materials, some traditional (like wood) and others more modern (like steel and concrete).
Where you can use them
Some people may have the impression that modular buildings are only used as temporary classrooms or shelters. But this is far from the case. One reason for the growing popularity of modular buildings is the fact that they are very versatile. You can use them to construct temporary buildings, of course, but you can also use them for the construction of long-term as well as permanent structures in various sectors, which include education and health care, housing, the public and private sector, and for apartments, hotels, offices, and industrial facilities. Nowadays, more and more commercial buildings and structures are made from modules or sections.
The different advantages of modular structures
There are many advantages which come when you choose to make use of a modular structure for construction. One prime advantage is the time and effort it takes to build. While traditional structures are heavily dependent on the materials and the building’s size and specifications, modular structures already come with everything needed to construct a building. The result is less time and effort in construction. Whereas with a traditional building, construction time may take from 3 months to up to 2 years, with a modular building, construction time may take as little as four weeks to three months, or even less.
Additionally, modular structures are cheaper to build. A traditional building’s overall cost can greatly vary depending on the location, design, and the building’s purpose, but modular structures are different in that they can cost as much as 35% to 40% less compared to a traditional structure which has the same specifications and size.
