There have been many advancements in the building and construction sector in recent years, and this is something that’s wonderful for the industry. But the sector is fast being overtaken by another method of construction which is faster, more efficient, less costly, and more viable for many property and business owners: modular construction. Modular construction is different from traditional building and construction in the sense that it uses modular buildings or structures which are created and produced in an off-site facility or factory. With modular construction, you can add another structure or a series of structures to an existing structure, and it doesn’t cost as much time, money, effort, or resources, either. But what exactly is the real deal with modular construction and buildings in the UK, and why does it work? Here’s your complete guide.
What makes it work?
Modular construction has become a much better alternative to traditional construction in the UK because it offers speed when it comes to construction, and it offers an improved and enhanced quality regarding the structure itself. With modular construction, property and building owners can also benefit from an early return on their investment. Many sectors now make use of modular construction, although it began as a popular mode of construction for social housing in the UK. Today, modular construction is used in various industries and sectors, such as the hospitality and restaurant sector (for use in hotels and restaurants), the retail sector (for use in shops), the education sector (for use in schools as modular classrooms), and the residential sector (for use as new build homes or extensions of houses).
The key advantages and benefits of modular construction and modular buildings
A shorter building time
A modular building will take as much as 50% to 60% less time to build than a traditional structure, and this leads to savings on expenses as well as an earlier return on your investment.
A better quality
Modular buildings are made in off-site facilities where the environment is easily controlled, and this leads to better quality in regards to the structure itself and the materials used.
A lower weight
Another advantage of modular construction is that it makes use of materials which have less weight or are more lightweight than traditional or standard masonry; in fact, the weight of the materials used for modular buildings is about 30% lighter than standard masonry.
An enhanced production economy of scale
Since the modular buildings are made in a factory, the entire process is more efficient. What’s more, the techniques used for production in the factory can be repeated and are a lot less wasteful, and this results in a better economy of scale.
Reduced requirement for workers and equipment on site
With modular construction, the only workers who are needed on site are the erection teams and the finishing teams, and this means fewer workers required along with fewer requirements for equipment as well.
Reduced fees for professionals
Another added advantage of modular construction and the use of modular buildings is the fact that you don’t need to rely heavily on professionals and specialist designers for input in regards to the building or structure. Modules often come with standardised designs and details, and you can simply add to these details and features as you see fit.