The construction industry has long been plagued by productivity challenges, hindering its ability to keep pace with other sectors. However, with the adoption of modular construction, the industry is undergoing a transformative shift that is revolutionizing the way buildings are designed and constructed. By leveraging the efficiencies and speed-to-market advantages of modular construction, construction companies and project owners can drastically reduce building time while still delivering high-quality, sustainable buildings. As the demand for commercial construction continues to rise, modular construction represents a game-changing solution that can help meet this demand while simultaneously driving efficiency, productivity, and profitability in the industry.
What is Modular Construction?
Modular construction, also known as off-site construction, is a building method that allows the construction of a building to take place off-site. The structures are constructed under controlled factory conditions and then transported to the construction site. Although the building is done in modules and parts are built in a factory, the building design, construction materials, and standards stick to the blueprint. Since the design and material specification remains the same, one would ask what drives the shift from conventional building methods to modular construction. Here are some of the reasons that explain why the technology has revolutionized the construction industry.
Off-site Construction Saves Time
Modular technology simplifies construction by reducing project completion time. When used effectively, modular construction can reduce construction time by almost 50%. Several factors help reduce the time required to complete a construction project.
First, factory prefabrication and site preparation can happen simultaneously. Delivery of the prefabricated structures and other materials can also be coordinated using just-in-time delivery strategies. Just-in-time deliveries mean materials arrive just when they are needed. This approach enhances efficiency by eliminating downtimes caused by delays in material delivery.
Secondly, off-site construction technology reduces weather delays. Traditionally construction sites have been interrupted by unfavorable weather conditions. Unfavorable weather conditions reduce visibility, which reduces the efficiency of construction workers. In addition, rain or snow may undo previously completed tasks. However, in modular construction, prefabrication happens in a factory setting, which reduces time wasted due to weather delays.
Thirdly, modular construction allows construction mechanization. The prefabricated parts can be moved by heavy-duty equipment that is faster and more efficient than human beings. Construction mechanization allows workers using modular construction technology to complete a building in a single day.
Finally, construction workers do not have to wait for natural processes. At the site, construction workers are only required to assemble the prefabricated parts.
Modular construction is More Cost Effective
Project owners are looking for cost-effective ways of completing their projects. However, even though the project owners explore different ways of cutting costs, they do not want to compromise quality. Modular construction helps the project owners achieve this goal. When compared to conventional methods, off-site construction reduces construction costs in the following ways;
Enhances Efficiency
Modular building technology has revolutionized the construction sector by enhancing efficiency and improving productivity. Since productivity is a function of the overall project cost, boosting it can greatly reduce the total cost of construction. As noted earlier, modular construction reduces downtimes caused by material delays or weather interruptions. Eliminating the downtimes reduces the overall cost of construction.
Improving efficiency benefits both the project owners and construction companies. As project owners enjoy a reduced cost of construction, construction companies can use modular construction technology to improve their pricing strategies.
Reduces Waste
A considerable amount of project cost goes into wasted materials. Reducing material wastage can lower construction costs. Modular construction reduces material waste by up to 80%. Reducing construction waste at the factory and the construction site helps cut the cost of construction.
Reduces Project Time
Reducing project construction time reduces the hours required to complete the project. Since labor is a significant component of the overall project cost, reducing the time required to complete the project makes modular construction a cost-effective building technology.
Modular Construction is a Greener Technology
The construction industry, on pace with other sectors, continues exploring more environmentally-friendly, sustainable production methods. But how is modular construction a sustainable building method?
- The fabrication process is factory-controlled. A factory-controlled production generates less waste compared to on-site construction. Factory managers apply different production methods to enhance efficiency and minimize waste. The prefabricated structures are custom-made, meaning there is minimal on-site waste. The process also reduces on-site pollution.
- Modular construction enhances flexibility and sustainable use of materials. Since the modules are factory constructed and assembled at the site, disassembling is possible. If there is a need for relocation or repurposing of the building, construction workers can disassemble and ship the materials to another site. Reusing construction materials allows the project owners to meet their new needs with minimal energy use and environmental degradation.
Modular Building Technology Meets Building Codes and Standards
Since prefabrication happens in a factory setting, the technology meets or exceeds the building codes and standards. Modular building technology follows product designs and uses specified construction materials to meet regulatory standards.
Improves Safety at the Construction Site
Modular construction happens in a factory setting. With most work being done off-site, modular technology improves safety standards at the construction site. Construction companies that have adopted modular construction reduce downtimes caused by accidents and injuries.
Want to Learn More About Modular Construction? Contact Us Today
Modular construction has transformed the construction industry. The technology not only reduces construction time but makes it cost-efficient and sustainable. RK Industries understands your desire to reduce construction costs and protect the environment. We can help you achieve your objectives by providing more insights into modular construction technology. Contact us today to learn more about construction technologies.