The Myths of Modular Construction

There are many advantages to commercial modular construction. It’s a quick form of construction that brings quality buildings in a reduced period of time. Even though it offers so many great benefits, there are still skeptics out there that believe some myths about modular construction. Let’s address some of these myths in this article.

The first myth is that commercial modular construction only meets needs temporarily. This is false because modular buildings provide permanent space solutions for everyone. Many people assume that portable buildings only address short-term needs. But with todays advances in technology and materials, you can develop and deliver permanent modular solutions.

Another myth to address is that commercial modular buildings offer limited utility. In reality, this type of construction actually provides flexibility. There is increased flexibility for the owners of modular buildings not only with the construction aspect of the process, but also in the acquirement of the property. Owners have the choice of how they want to finance the building, either lease or buy. And, more buyers are turning to modular buildings because of the flexibility of its relocation features. If an owner is looking for a permanent site to build on, but needs a facility right away, the portable building can be relocated from one site to another temporarily.

The third myth to point out is the one that states that commercial modular buildings are low quality. But in reality, they provide quality guarantee to many owners. The question to ask yourself then is why are so many people using them and turning to them for their building needs? The modular structures are built by the same local codes as permanent construction. And the materials that are used still offer the same warranty and guarantee as any other construction. In fact, most states require some kind of quality-assurance program and that it needs to be monitored by a third party. This third-party agency has inspections done on the buildings to make sure that they are meeting all requirements.

The last myth that many people believe is that modular buildings allow few design choices. In reality, the owner can choose colors and materials as he/she pleases. New designs are being created all the time. Architectural firms are teaming with modular builders to brainstorm and create new ideas for these buildings so that they will have more aesthetic choices for the purchaser. The owner can most likely customize their modular building and design it to fit their needs.

Some Advantages of Modular Buildings

Professionals and school administrators have turned to modular buildings to escape the many frustrations that come up with on-site constructions. A few of the frustrations include, but aren’t limited to, bad weather, supplier and scheduling delays and other miscellaneous problems that may arise. This makes the flow of a project sometimes come to a stop or be delayed. Modular buildings are fast and easy to put up. The time from start to finish is one of the quickest methods for construction. Modular offers the advantage for you to design your facility from top to bottom, while allowing you the option to possible relocate or expand further into the future. Today’s technology has allowed for you to choose the building material of your choice.There are two main types of modular construction, also known as prefabricated construction, available: mobile offices and modular buildings. Mobile offices consist primarily of pre-made stock buildings that are typically used by construction companies for temporary office space. Modular buildings, in contrast, are custom-built to a user’s specifications.

Most of the building construction for the modular unit is done at the factory and not on-site. So, by the time the modular unit is delivered to you, it is almost completed and ready for use. The entire building is not built in one piece; instead, the floor plan is broken up into individual modules that can be shipped on the road. This follows some safety protocol and reduces any risk of getting hurt while construction is going on. In many cases, modular building construction can save you money in the long run. You not only have timelier completion of the unit, but you will reduce the cost of your other leasing arrangements. You have many financial options when it comes to purchasing a modular unit. You can probably even find a company that can rent you a building if you only need it for a short period of time.

Modular buildings are a great investment for anyone, no matter what the use may be. Whether you opt to use them on a temporary basis until your other construction is completed, or you want to buy them permanently, they are a great choice and so many advantages to using them.

Pros and Cons of Modular Buildings

There are pros and cons to purchasing just about anything and that includes modular buildings as well. It is a large item to purchase and the number one reason to go with the modular is the speed of construction. The building can be put up in a matter of weeks compared to the on-site construction of 6 plus months. Faster construction means that a company can generate profits more quickly and start paying for overhead costs sooner. Modular buildings are also less expensive than regular on-site construction buildings. The cost comparison is usually doubled per square foot, and that includes installation. The actual price you will pay may range in price due to the different variables that may come up. But generally, you can expect to pay less for the modular building.

Another reason to favor the modular buildings is having the ability to transport from site to site. This is one of the advantages because you won’t have to re-invest in another building for a different site, but merely move the entire building. The modular building isn’t a permanent fixture. You can make it compatible to whatever your needs are. Maybe you need it for a school classroom or maybe it’s used for a construction site manager’s office. Whatever the purpose is for the modular, you can customize it to fit your needs.

The negative side to modular buildings is how it might look and feel to you. If you want a grand, custom design for a look, then the modular building would not be well suited for you. They are temporary buildings that will serve their purpose well, however they don’t have all of the bells and whistles on them. They will provide shelter and offer space to work in, but may not always be pretty.

Another drawback to the modular construction is the ceiling height. There aren’t the tall entry ceilings and at times, people may feel caved in because most modular buildings inside are a box. The have a few windows inside and usually four corners. They are practical, but not stylish.

In closing, you can choose to design your modular building how you would like it if you customize it. Some of the cons listed above may not be a problem for you and if they are, you can certainly change them to work for you. Whatever your need may be, you can’t go wrong with investing in a modular building.