Modular Construction Site Work

Modular construction site work can include grading, excavation, construction, and installation of septic tanks and filtration systems, driveways, and other utilities.

Foundations

As part of the construction management process, Triumph Modular will install your project’s specified modular construction foundation.

Here are examples of modular construction foundations:

Pre-Cast Blocks

Pre-cast blocks are often referred to as “cinder” blocks, and foundations utilizing this material are used on many modular construction installations. Typically, building foundations utilizing pre-cast blocks have minimal site preparation—the blocks are placed upon a solid base pad resting directly on the ground. Usually, there is no soil investigation to determine if the site can support the loads imposed. This type of foundation work is relegated to temporary smaller short-term lease modular buildings.

Grade Beams

Poured-in-place grade beams are the next step up for foundation work. This is the industry’s preferred foundation for permanent installation since it reduces the amount of formwork required.

Poured-in-place installations may require a soil investigation to determine soil characteristics and values. These values are compared to the loads imposed by the structure, and the beams are sized to distribute the loads evenly. Typically, the grade beam is finished at an elevation even with or slightly above the surrounding soil, allowing the building modules to be pulled onto the prepared foundation and then blocked with pre-cast blocks.

The site is prepared by digging trenches at least 12″ deep or below the frost line, where applicable, placing reinforcement steel, and pouring a minimum of 3000 psi concrete.

Stem-Walls

Stem-wall building foundations more closely resemble conventional construction than the two listed above. This is the most costly type of foundation due to the extensive formwork and the fact that two different pours are required. A stem-wall is a perimeter concrete wall placed atop a larger footing. This type of foundation provides an enclosed crawl space, and consideration must be given to access, ventilation, and drainage of the crawlspace. Drainage must be addressed via sumps, French drains, or other means. Stem-wall foundations are utilized only on permanent installations, often on uneven sites where the building is located on a slope.

Helical Piles

Helical piles or anchors are used where traditional foundations are difficult to install. A hydraulic steel shaft with helical-shaped plates is mechanically twisted into the ground like a corkscrew. The helical piles turn 20-60+ feet downward until they reach a stable soil layer or find the proper load-bearing depth. Helical piles can be used if soil conditions are a concern. They are perfect for loose or soft soils and reduce the earth displacement, minimizing site disturbance. Helical piles are also environmentally friendly due to a smaller carbon footprint than other foundation options.

Triumph Modular can develop any type of foundation work for your modular construction project. We’ll work to provide you with the foundation that suits your specific needs.