An introduction to modular construction
Modular construction is where a building is constructed off-site under controlled factory conditions. The building is designed and produced either whole, or for larger projects, in transportable modules.
Once completed off-site, including for internal fit-out, the modules are delivered to site, where they are installed, checked, tested and signed over.
Modular construction meets all the same Building Regulation and performance standards as traditional construction.
What are the benefits of modular construction?
There are numerous benefits to off-site building. These include:
- speed of delivery
- factory controlled quality and checking
- improved health and safety
- reduced waste and minimised disruption
More than ever, off-site construction is playing a vital role in the development of more efficient and sustainable methods of construction.
What are the different types of modular construction?
There are two main types of modular construction: temporary and permanent.
For long-term needs, permanent modular buildings provide durable and customisable spaces, often for offices, schools, or apartments.
On the other hand, temporary modular buildings are ideal for short-term projects like construction site offices or events. These can be easily relocated or disassembled, providing flexible solutions for businesses requiring temporary space, without the commitment of ownership.
What are the top 5 most common mistakes in modular construction?
Modular construction requires detailed upfront planning. Changes after design approval can be costly and time-consuming. Early collaboration helps avoid mistakes and delays.
Building inspectors may be unfamiliar with modular construction. Working with an experienced contractor can smooth the approval process. Understanding local regulations is crucial.
Prepare your site before modular building production starts. Delays can lead to storage costs. Effective communication with all stakeholders is essential.
Multiple parties involved in modular projects can complicate liability. Clear contracts and defined roles minimise risks.
Modular construction is more environmentally friendly than traditional methods. The industry is evolving to meet carbon reduction targets.
Can modular construction be environmentally friendly?
Modular buildings are an environmentally sound method of construction. Compared to traditional construction the off-site process achieves reduced build times and helps avoid stoppages due to adverse weather, while minimising waste and streamlining transportation for fewer deliveries to site
The environmental benefits are becoming an increasingly important reason for specifying a modular building, both from regulations perspective and for end user requirements. Sourcing carbon neutral or low carbon building solutions also helps organisations and businesses to meet their corporate and social responsibilities.
Since our formation in 1991, Elite Systems has worked hard to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to delivering environmentally focused, bespoke modular buildings.
How do we make modular buildings eco-friendly?
Our decades of experience of designing and installing modular healthcare buildings, modular for commercial use and modular classrooms have given us valuable insights into creating bespoke, sustainable modular buildings.
The new eco/net zero modular concept is a future-proof building that can stand up to the rigours of everyday use while minimising environmental impact. We’ve considered every element of the design to ensure that the building exceeds current building regulations whilst creating a pleasant environment for the end user.
- Clever use of ventilation and insulation to regulate the temperature – no need for air con and heating systems.
- Windows are triple glazed
- Walls feature triple-layered insulation to keep the heat in
- The additional solar shading keeps heat out in summer
- The positioning of the windows draws more air into the building to cool the interior space.
We have specified greener materials throughout the building, from the timber frame to the increased use of low-VOC materials to create a ‘healthier’ space. The rainwater harvesting system is built into the design so that there is no large unsightly tank bolted onto the exterior of the building. In ideal conditions, the solar PV roof panels will create all the energy the building requires to run.
Real world applications
The eco concept is designed to be suitable for a range of real world applications. The flexibility of the design means that the concept is scalable, and can be used as a modular classroom, office building, sports pavilion or modular hospital ward.
With small changes to the shading elements, the concept can be applied to a two or three-storey modular building system and the only limiting factor to the floorplate is the size of the space available.
And while this building will stand the test of time, it is also a good option for a temporary modular solution. Specifying the eco concept as a temporary structure will result in our installation team requiring a shorter time onsite, and the building can be easily relocated if required.
FAQs about modular construction
Volumetric modular construction is a building method where entire sections of a building are prefabricated in a factory and then transported to the site for assembly. This process speeds up construction and improves quality control.
Prefabricated buildings are structures that are manufactured in a factory and then transported to a site for assembly. This method offers several advantages, including faster construction time, better quality control, and reduced waste compared to traditional building methods.
Almost anywhere! We manufacture and install modular buildings all over the UK. They can be used across all sectors, including education, healthcare, commercial and more.
Modular building creation involves design, manufacturing, and assembly. First, architects create detailed plans. Then, modules are built in a controlled factory environment. Finally, these modules are transported and joined on-site to form the complete building
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