Modular and prefabricated building techniques offer advantages like environmental friendliness, faster construction, and increased safety.
FREMONT, CA: Construction of modular and prefabricated buildings occurs in a controlled environment off-site, where the structures are divided into modules. These modules are then assembled on-site according to the original design specifications. Before it was assembled on-site, the Eiffel Tower was built off-site and transported to its final location. Similarly, in Australia during the 1800s, numerous cottages were also constructed off-site and then transported to their designated location for assembly.
Although modular construction has proven to be advantageous over time, it is still stigmatised. This stigma is so significant that modular buildings account for only 3 per cent of the Australian construction industry's annual statistics.
Modular and Prefabricated Building Techniques
Modular and prefabricated buildings are constructed in a strictly controlled environment off-site, but they adhere to the same building standards and codes as on-site construction methods. Modular refers to the construction method that revolves around creating modules, which are individual components of the entire structure. These modules are later assembled on-site. There are various modular construction techniques available to choose from.
One of the modular building techniques involves using 2D panels, which allows for more flexibility in the design. This method is cost-effective as it is easier to transport the panels to the site, making it suitable for open-concept designs.
Another modular building technique involves 3D modules, which are more complex than 2D panels. Instead of panels, whole rooms or parts of rooms are constructed off-site, which leads to faster on-site construction. However, this method is more logistically complicated compared to the 2D panel method. A hybrid modular building technique exists where certain parts of the building are made using 2D panels while others use 3D modules. For example, the kitchen and bathroom could be constructed as 3D modules, while the rest of the building is made using 2D panels.
Modular Techniques Provide Property Developers
Traditional building techniques involve constructing the building on the property development site using materials delivered to that location. There are three significant reasons why this method is preferred over modular building techniques.
The first reason why modular construction is beneficial is its eco-friendliness. Modular construction generates less waste since the off-site facility can recycle materials and manage the inventory efficiently. The modular approach allows for the disassembly of modules, which means that components can be reused and repurposed. Additionally, dry materials are commonly used in modular structures, which prevents moisture from getting trapped in the new building. The second reason why traditional building techniques are preferred is that they can result in faster construction.
