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Stage 1

Design approval by the end user and any regulating authorities.

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Stage 2

Assembly of module components in a controlled environment

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Stage 3

Transportation of modules to project site

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Stage 4

Erection of modular units to form a finished building

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Modular building is complete

How to Succeed with Permanent Modular

Modular construction, also known as volumetric and prefabricated building, refers to a method of building an off-site structure to be delivered for final assembly. Modular buildings are typically built 60 to 90 percent off-site in a three-dimensional form: constructed at one location and then used by occupants at another.

Construction Schedule Comparison Infographic

While modules are being constructed in a factory, site work is occurring at the same time. This allows for earlier building occupancy and contributes to a much shorter overall construction period. This process can often reduce the length of modular construction projects by half of conventional, stick-built construction with the same life expectancy as traditionally built buildings.

The stages of permanent modular construction

  1. Design approval by end user and any regulating authorities
  2. Assembly of modular components in a controlled environment
  3. Transportation of modules to project site
  4. Erection of modular units to form a finished building

THINGS TO CONSIDER

Getting started with modular construction requires the smart application of modular building practices. Pros and cons exist for every potential modular building project regardless of timeline, size, and complexity.

Modular Construction Pros Modular Construction Cons
Speed to occupancy Module transporting cost
Cost predictability Delivery logistics at the job site
Consistency from a controlled environment Maneuverability of buildings & heavy equipment on-site
Fewer subcontractors needed prior to installation Less flexibility due to size & shape of standard modules
Less site disruption High ceilings less achievable due to highway transportation restrictions
Increased sustainability & less waste Design & customization requires more pre-planning & coordination
Similar durability to traditional construction Additional permits for trucking, crane set, and remanufacturing/relabeling
Less weather dependent  Line time & factory availability due to supply chain issues

Pre-planning has the most impact on modular construction speed to occupancy—one of the biggest benefits of choosing modular. If you want to occupy your building as quickly as possible, taking the time to plan out your project far in advance to limit design changes is crucial. 

See the reports below that provide facts about the advantages and savings with “off-site” construction. These resources are also available on our Modular Building Resources page.

Tell Us About Your Project

Contact us to discuss your ideas. We can determine together whether Permanent Modular Construction is the right fit for your project and provide an estimate of potential costs.