Modular Construction

Modular construction consists of buildings that are prefabricated in multiple sections called modules. The modules are constructed in a remote facility, then delivered to their intended site of use. Using a crane, the modules are set onto the building's foundation and joined together to make a single residential, or commercial, building. The modules can be placed side-by-side, end-to-end, or stacked up to 4 stories in height, allowing a wide variety of configurations and styles in the building layout.

Must Meet Code:  Modular buildings must conform to all local building codes for their proposed use. This differs from mobile homes, with which moduar construction is sometimes confused, because mobile homes are required to conform to federal codes governed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Uses of Modular Buildings:  Modular buildings may be used for long-term, temporary or permanent facilities, such as construction camps, schools and classrooms, civilian and military housing, and industrial facilities. Modular buildings are used in remote and rural areas where conventional construction may not be reasonable or possible. Other uses have included churches, health care facilities, sales and retail offices, fast food restaurants and cruise ship construction.

Advantages of Modular Construction: Modular buildings are often priced lower than their site-built counterparts, for a variety of reasons. Manufacturers cite the following advantages for using modular construction: 1) Speed of construction/faster return on investment. Modular construction allows for the building and the site work to be completed simultaneously, reducing the overall completion schedule by as much as 50%; 2) Indoor construction. Assembly is independent of weather, which increases work efficiency and avoids damaged building material; 3) Favorable pricing from suppliers. Large-scale manufacturers can effectively bargain with suppliers for discounts on materials; 4) Low waste.