Modular building manufacturing is something that has been around for decades, but it is increasingly enjoying more attention and more popularity as the many benefits and conveniences of this building practice become common knowledge.
This style of building is an uncomplicated way to put a structure together, and it can also greatly minimise the amount of time that it can take to complete a building project. This method of building can be used for a variety of purposes, including homes, commercial properties and even lodges or hotels. And even though this method can seem like it would result in a fairly standard structure, the construction project can be quite specialised.
If you are new to this building concept, you possibly have quite a few questions that you’d like answered, or perhaps you are just looking for more information about modular building before deciding if it is something that would be suitable for your needs.
In this blog, we’ll explain how modular buildings are made and assembled. But first, let’s define a modular building.
What is a modular building?
The concept of modular building is actually quite straightforward.
It refers to any structure that is constructed off-site, under controlled conditions. Usually, the structures that are built will be built using the same materials, which means that each structure will be exactly the same in its makeup while it will also be constructed according to the same standards. This identical method of building will result in a uniform number of buildings being constructed in half the time that it would take if you used more conventional methods.
Modular buildings are also known for having a couple of other benefits.
For starters, they are the more environmentally friendly option, what with them all being built in one spot. Beyond that, this style of building is also going to result in less wastage, there is a lot more flexibility and there is a reduced demand for raw materials. Basically, modular building takes a lot less energy.
And then there is the fact that modular building is just so fast.
Unlike conventional construction project time tables, building using the modular method takes up far less time and so the worry about having to plan project deadlines or worrying about things taking too long to complete will be non-existent. There will also be no concerns about weather interrupting plans or building codes being damaged.
Lastly, modular building has become the smartest way to build. It is far safer than your other building methods, and it has paved the way for better engineering and designs.
How are modular buildings manufactured?
Because of the nature of modular buildings, everything is manufactured at a specific building location, which is generally a warehouse or factory. Up to 90% of the structure is built at the location, in a highly-controlled environment, before it is moved to the final location where the various finishing touches are done.
The structure, once made, can be moved as a singular unit or it can be moved as a couple of sub-units, depending on the size of the structure being built as well as the number of structures being constructed.
Some modular structures can be temporary while others can be permanent, and the purpose of the structure as well as the materials used and the overall design will determine the longevity of the structure.
Usually these types of structures are going to be built from wood, concrete, or steel, and they can have windows, water and sewerage pipes, electrical boxes and outlets, and even telecommunication lines.
How are modular buildings assembled?
Once the bulk of the construction process has been completed, the next phase will be to safely move the structure to wherever it needs to be erected. There are a few ways that a structure can be moved, often it will be done using a truck, if over a short distance, or a train if the distance is further.
The moving process is as well planned as the construction process, as the structure can be so large that moving it can be quite tricky and at times even dangerous. The structures will generally be built according to regulations that will make transporting them easier and less hazardous.
When the structure gets to the site on which it is going to be assembled, the team responsible will get to work putting it all together. Generally, it will be the same company that built the structure who assemble it.
The site on which the structure will be assembled will need to be well-prepared in advance of the structure arriving.
As part of the finishing touches, the team will generally do all of the necessary utility connections, and once the project is complete, the structure will become a complete building ready for use.
At Bolt Modular, we manufacture all types of modular structures, so should you need a structure of this kind, you can contact us today for more information.
We offer parkhomes, modular classrooms, as well as toilet & shower combos. Get your quote today.
