As an expert in the construction industry, I have seen the rise of modular construction and its many benefits. It is a technique that has gained ground because it aims to address the problems that are often experienced in conventional projects. Modular construction is known under several terms, such as “volumetric modular”, “3D modular” or simply “off-site construction”. However, as with any construction method, there are also disadvantages that need to be considered before deciding on this approach. One of the main advantages of modular construction is the storage of materials.
In compact urban environments like Philadelphia, space is limited and organizing and moving materials can be a challenge. This can lead to disorder, slow down work, and even create theft problems. By building the modules in a factory, construction sites can remain cleaner and safer, providing more space to work and move freely. In the past, one of the most significant drawbacks of modular construction was quality. The manufacturing of the modules was still in its early stages, resulting in poor structures that could not compete with traditional on-site projects.
However, as processes were simplified and modular construction gained more strength, manufacturers applied stricter quality control to their assembly lines. Today, the maximum size of modules is limited to 16 feet (4.87 meters) wide and 75 feet (22.86 meters) long - the size that trucks can carry. This means that designers must be creative with their designs to make rooms bigger or settle for standard sizes. Another disadvantage of modular construction is the perception that it produces substandard products. In the past, people often viewed modular structures as glorified military barracks.
However, modular construction involves more than most people know, and we'll talk about all of them in great detail. When used properly, which is almost always the case, these modular buildings can have a longer lifespan than those built on site. One of the most significant disadvantages of modular construction is the size limitation, which is also related to transportation. Since modules must be transported to the construction site, their size is limited by what trucks can carry. This can be a challenge for larger projects that require bigger rooms or structures. Another disadvantage that often goes unnoticed is the higher upfront costs of modular construction.
Since it requires buying and manufacturing things on a faster time frame, bills are often much higher early in the construction period than investors and lenders are used to seeing and paying. This factor can be a decisive factor for many people because, in some cases, it makes the total cost of modular construction even more expensive than that of conventional buildings. So how can developers reduce costs? One possible solution is an evolving construction process called “modular construction”. This technique involves constructing a building off-site, in multiple 3D modules, and assembling them on site to create the desired structure. However, every part of this installation must meet the customer's needs, and if they want something that isn't available when opting for modular construction, it can lead to additional costs. According to a recent study from the United Kingdom, modular construction can achieve a material reduction of up to 90%.
This is because modules are built in a controlled environment, reducing waste and optimizing material usage. However, this also means that more decisions must be made and more elaborated in design and engineering from the beginning of the process. This can lead to higher upfront costs as well. In conclusion, while modular construction has many benefits and has gained popularity over the years, it is not without its challenges and disadvantages. As an expert in the industry, I believe that it is essential to consider all aspects of a construction method before deciding on the best approach for a project.
Modular construction may not be the solution for every project, but when used correctly, it can be a cost-effective and efficient option.
