Top 10 Differences Between Modular & Conventional Construction
Traditional construction has been the accepted norm for a long time. Though the beginnings of modular construction can be seen as early as 1908 and the process has been refined through the years, modular construction is still seen as sort of the new kid on the block. That being said, many architects and builders have shifted over to modular building construction without any regrets, enjoying the vast benefits that it gives.
If you’re reading this, you are probably wondering how modular building construction “stacks up” against its traditional counterpart. If so, then you’re in the right place. This comprehensive article covers the top differences between modular vs. conventional construction.
Let’s get started!
1. The Process
The traditional construction process is like a pipeline, wherein each step needs to be completed before moving onto the next. And these steps can be simplified into the following:
Design engineering
Permits & approvals
Site development & foundations
Building construction
Site restoration
With modular construction, two steps can be done simultaneously: site development and foundations with building construction. This is all thanks to the convenience of having the modules manufactured off-site. So while the site is getting prepared, so are the modules, and when the time comes, they only need to be assembled and fixed into place.
Both the modular and traditional methods of construction require rigorous planning but with modular construction, there is no room for error. For each module to fit into place, the plan has to be meticulously made and followed.
2. Duration of Construction
Since the process of modular construction allows for the modules to be built offsite while the building site is being developed, this greatly reduces the duration of construction. Furthermore, because modules are installed quickly and cleanly, site restoration at the end-stage of the construction project also takes less time.
All in all, modular building construction takes 50% less time to complete vs traditional construction.
3. Budget
“Time is money” may sound like a cliche but it oftentimes rings true, especially in the construction industry. The significantly shorter build-time required in modular construction cuts labour costs and the process itself may even reduce the costs for equipment rentals.
4. Safety
Let’s consider the difference between a building’s development for modular vs. conventional construction. In modular construction, you’ll see entire rooms and sections completed bit by bit as the structure gains height.
In traditional construction, you may start seeing the framework of the building first gaining height before the walls are put in place gradually. This is true even for projects with fewer storeys. Due to this, traditional construction is more prone to accidents like falling debris and falling tools. The contractors themselves are in greater danger as they go about the building’s open framework.
5. Vulnerability to Bad Weather
Traditional construction is far more vulnerable to bad weather. Rain, snow, and other forms of precipitation can be damaging to the materials and equipment being used. Furthermore, construction can be ceased completely when the weather is bad, putting a halt to the building’s progress.
This is not the case for modular construction because the sections of the buildings are created in controlled environments. The manufacturing process can still continue even in poor weather conditions. Once more favourable weather returns, it’s just a matter of assembling the modules on the site.
6. Quality
We’ve discussed that quality raw materials are used for both modular and traditional construction. But tying back to vulnerability to weather, there is yet another advantage that modular construction has.
Since the modules are built off-site in a controlled environment, there is less exposure of the prefabricated parts and materials to precipitation during the build phase. This means that there is less likelihood of moisture being trapped in the structure, making it stronger in the long run and of much higher quality.
7. Environmentally Friendly
The manufacturing of modular buildings generates less waste because the factory is able to recycle or cross-utilize materials as needed. This is usually not the case for traditionally constructed buildings. Moreover, there is a reduction in the carbon footprint of a project because fewer people need to travel to and from the site within a shorter duration of construction.
8. Community Friendly
Whether your project is for residential or commercial purposes, you may be concerned about how it affects the people in proximity to the project - which could be your employees, your customers, or neighbours.
Traditional construction creates a lot of disruption in the form of noise, traffic, and dust. The installation of modules, on the other hand, does not generate the same amount of noise, traffic, and dust - making it a better choice for the welfare of the surrounding community.
9. Noise Reduction
In traditionally-built houses and buildings, noise can travel through walls and floors - meaning extra noise reduction solutions need to be put in place. Modular homes and buildings, however, are known to have better acoustics for each room.
This is because each module is a separate piece of construction with its own floor, ceiling, and walls. When these are connected to each other, noise isn’t transmitted as easily.
10. Late Changes to the Design
Traditional construction allows for more on-the-fly changes to the design. Of course, it isn’t advisable to do so, but if it is necessary, it’s easier to do with traditional construction. In modular construction, changes to the design may need to be made much earlier to be executed without significant difficulty.
Where Can I Get Help With Modular Construction?
As you can see, there are advantages to both modular and traditional construction and we’ve covered all of that in our list. If modular construction sounds like the right choice for you, you’ll be able to look forward to a project done in about half the time, with reduced costs, and far less stress.
And when you’re ready to take the first step, we’re here for you. xL Architects is a Toronto-based architectural firm that specializes in modular construction and laneway suites.
Contact us today and let’s talk about the project that you have in mind. Whether it’s a renovation project or a new building for residential or commercial purposes, we’ll be more than happy to help!