How the Modular Construction Industry is Transforming the Building Sector

The building industry is experiencing constant change and continuous advancements in technology. One exciting trend that has emerged in recent years is modular construction which involves the offsite fabrication of building components, which are then assembled onsite.

Intriguingly, modular construction distinguishes itself by offering compelling advantages over traditional construction - from expeditious project completion to cost-effectiveness and heightened structural quality.

Learn more about modular construction and why it's quickly replacing traditional building methods for effective, affordable, and high-quality structures.

What is Modular Construction?

Modular construction is a prefabrication technique that entails assembling separate modules or units that are produced either on or off-site (in a factory) to build structures.

It comprises numerous fiber-reinforced plastic composite panels securely joined together to create a structure. Once finished, the modules are moved to the site for assembly. There are two main types of modular construction:

● Relocatable Building (RB) or Temporary Modular Construction (TMC): These facilities are temporary and can be repurposed and easily moved from one location to another. A factory employs cutting-edge manufacturing techniques to construct its modular parts in a regulated setting. They are often used for offices, schools, and other temporary structures.

● Permanent Modular Construction (PMC): One key characteristic of PMC is that these buildings are not designed for relocation. Once assembled, they become a permanent fixture at the location where they are built.

Applications of Modular Construction

The structures can be used in different residential and commercial settings; serving diverse needs from simple cashier booths and portable restrooms to complex diagnostic imaging centers and pharmaceutical labs.

The adaptability extends to retail shops, malls, distribution centers, and multi-story office buildings, providing efficient solutions for various businesses. ​

Even the educational field benefits from the deployment of portable classrooms and college dormitories.

How the Modular Construction Industry Is Changing the Way We Build

The modular construction industry is leading the way in a disruptive wave because of the smooth integration of Building Information Modeling (BIM) to produce one-of-a-kind designs and collaborative systems.

The revolutionary effect of integrating BIM into modular construction results in enhanced performance in terms of budget and timeline; which is why a growing number of people are getting excited about implementing BIM principles inside the modular building framework.

Also, because modular construction requires less room for material preparation and storage, it provides additional benefits for implementation on urban sites.

Pros of Modular Construction

● Modular construction kicks traditional timelines to the curb, delivering structures in record time. It's a practical solution for builders and investors alike because it reduces waste and cost without compromising quality.

● It boasts enhanced structural integrity, thanks to the precision in manufacturing and the use of robust materials.

● The flexibility of assembling modules allows projects to flourish even in areas deemed challenging or remote.

● With modular construction, you can say goodbye to challenges caused by volatile weather conditions. This construction method defies the unpredictability of the elements as work can continue uninterrupted regardless of external factors such as rain or snow.

● Your carbon footprint can be minimized and energy expenses reduced with the buildings' superior thermal insulation and increased energy efficiency.

Cons of Modular Construction

While it offers several advantages, there are also some potential drawbacks, including:

● One notable drawback revolves around the approval process. Modular construction approval often necessitates extra inspections. Delays in securing necessary approvals may arise, causing uncertainties in the construction schedule.

● The transportation of modules to the construction site can add to the overall cost of the project, stemming from the logistical challenges of moving large loads across distances.

Need a Digital Representation of your Design? Get in Touch

If your modular construction lacks a digital representation, 3Drawings is ready to assist. With our unmatched BIM modeling services, we can turn your concept into a reality.

To produce accurate models of your building design, our team of knowledgeable BIM modelers employs Revit software. Our offerings consist of:

● BIM execution plans

● Seamless design coordination and collaboration among project stakeholders

● Early detection and fixing of possible design problems

● Optimization of MEP system design for enhanced efficiency and performance

● Accurate quantity take-off and cost estimation

● Clash detection and resolution, preventing costly construction delays

Whether you require assistance in designing, coordinating, or visualizing your project, we are equipped to handle it all. Feel free to reach out today to learn more about our BIM modeling services.