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Faster Construction with Modular Building

The speed of modular construction is a game-changer in the industry, providing a significant advantage over traditional building methods. By constructing building modules in a factory-controlled environment and then assembling them on-site, modular construction drastically reduces project timelines.

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The July/August 2024 Modular Advantage publication by the Modular Building Institute delves into the efficiency of modular construction by discussing the topic with industry professionals and innovators. How do experienced companies balance timelines with safety and quality? What new innovations are being tested and what practices should we expect to see come to market in the future? Learn this and more from top-of-industry trend-setters.

The Modular Building Process

Modular construction involves creating building modules in a factory-controlled environment. These modules are then transported to the construction site and assembled. This process contrasts sharply with traditional construction, where each phase is completed sequentially on-site, often leading to delays due to weather, labor shortages, and other unforeseen issues.

A timeline comparing the benefits of modular construction scheduling versus site built construction scheduling, where modular construction projects are shown to reduce the schedule by 30 to 50%

Benefits of Faster Construction with Modular Methods

  • Simultaneous Site and Module Work: One of the primary reasons modular construction is faster is that site preparation and module construction occur concurrently. While the site is being prepared, the building modules are being fabricated in the factory. This parallel process can cut the overall project timeline by 30-50%. How long does it take to build prefab? The efficiency of building in a factory-controlled environment drastically cuts down project timelines.
  • Reduced Weather Delays: Traditional construction projects are often at the mercy of the weather. Rain, snow, and extreme temperatures can halt work and extend project timelines. In contrast, modular construction takes place in a controlled factory setting, virtually eliminating weather-related delays.
  • Streamlined Logistics: Since a significant portion of the construction is completed off-site, modular projects benefit from streamlined logistics. Modules are delivered and assembled quickly, minimizing the time and disruption typically associated with transporting materials and coordinating on-site labor. How long does it take to install modular? Once modules are fabricated, they can be assembled on-site swiftly, minimizing overall construction time.
  • Enhanced Quality Control: Factory construction allows for stringent quality control measures that are difficult to achieve on an open construction site. This precision reduces rework and errors, further speeding up the project timeline.
  • Efficiency in Labor Use: Modular construction optimizes labor use by centralizing work in a factory. This method reduces the need for specialized trades to travel to the site, improving efficiency and reducing labor costs.

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MBI produces the industry's leading annual reports detailing permanent modular construction and relocatable buildings, but we need your help! Submit your modular project data today and contribute to the greater knowledge of the modular construction industry.

Success Story: 12 New Classrooms for Westlake Academy in 100 Days

Company:
Offsite Modular Construction

Location:
Dallas, Texas

Building Use:
Classrooms

Gross Size of Project:
13,000+ Square Feet

Days to complete:
100

How long does it take to build modular? The Westlake Academy project was completed in just 100 days, showcasing the remarkable speed of modular construction. 

Westlake Academy, located in Dallas, Texas, is an exemplary modular construction project. This cumulative 13,000+ square-foot project was completed in just 100 days. The project involved the off-site production of two modules, which were then transported and assembled on-site in time for the new school year. If this project had been completed using traditional methods, it would have taken over a year for the buildings to be built! The new classrooms included advanced features like teacher-controlled dimmable LED lighting, natural light windows, separate HVAC systems with HEPA 15 air filtration, and enhanced security measures.

Consider Modular Building for Your Next Project

The speed advantages of modular construction make it an ideal choice for a wide range of projects, including hotels, hospitals, offices, schools, multi-family housing, and crisis buildings. By reducing construction time, modular methods help you meet deadlines, control costs, and bring your project to life faster.

Contact MBI

Explore how modular solutions can meet your project needs by speaking to a member of the Modular Building Institute. MBI connects you with industry experts specializing in large-scale, commercial modular projects. Learn more about how modular construction can accelerate your project timeline and ensure high-quality results.

Get started on your next project with the efficiency and speed of modular construction. Contact MBI today to connect with experienced professionals who can help bring your vision to reality.