What is Modular Construction?

Modular construction is a practical and cutting-edge method of construction. It had gained popularity in the architectural and construction industries as a faster, smarter, and greener building solution.

Breaking it down, modular construction is the process by which the sections—or “modules”—of a house or building are pre-engineered and manufactured off-site in a factory under controlled conditions. The raw materials and design used to create these modules adhere to the same codes and standards used in conventional construction. Once transported to the construction site, these modules can be placed side-by-side or stacked on top of each other—a lot like legos. Then, the modules are joined together using inter-module connections or interconnections.

Modular structures can be built for residential or commercial purposes. They can be as low as a one-storey home or as high as a 20-storey building. Though modular construction has only gained popularity in recent years, the beginnings of this construction method can be traced as far back as 1908. Through the decades, the techniques and technologies used in modular construction have advanced, shaping it into the groundbreaking construction solution that it is today. 

Types of Modular Construction

There are mainly two types of structures that modular construction produces: permanent modular buildings and temporary modular buildings. 

For both of these types, high-quality materials are used and modules are manufactured in controlled factory environments. The modular construction process stays mostly the same, except that permanent modular buildings are fastened to a foundation on the site and temporary modular buildings may not be. Additionally, there are other factors that differentiate the two types:

Duration of Usage

Permanent modular buildings are fabricated for long-term use and affixed to a prepared foundation on the site where it will stand. These structures can last for decades, similar to conventionally constructed buildings.

Meanwhile, temporary modular buildings are installed for a shorter duration of time such as a few months or years. Though these structures are typically made of lighter materials compared to permanent modular buildings, temporary modular buildings are made to withstand several relocations. 

Building Purpose

Permanent modular buildings are best used for purposes that don’t require relocation. This type of modular building can be the main structure of hospitals, banks, schools, hotels, housing. Or, they can be used as additions or extensions to an existing, fixed structure like the aforementioned ones. 

Temporary modular buildings are best used for purposes that either require to be relocated eventually and/or a relatively quicker construction process. They can be used as temporary housing, temporary commercial structures, emergency medical facilities, and other similarly functioning buildings.

Duration of Construction

The amount of time it takes to construct modular buildings depends on the size of the project. However, if all else is equal, permanent modular buildings generally take about twice the amount of time that it takes to set up temporary modular buildings. In any case, both these types of modular buildings are constructed in a shorter period of time compared to conventional construction.

Materials & Total Cost

Generally, permanent modular buildings have modules that are reinforced with concrete and steel. Meanwhile, temporary modular buildings are mostly wooden-based so that they are lighter and easier to relocate.

Additionally, we mentioned earlier that permanent modular buildings have more robust materials. Due to this, they tend to cost more than temporary modular buildings.

Ability to Be Integrated to an Existing Structure

Permanent modular buildings can be attached to existing structures and integrate seamlessly in terms of the existing facade, structural nuances, and technological details. Meanwhile, temporary modular buildings cannot be connected directly to existing structures in the same way. 

The Benefits of Modular Construction

The rising demand for affordable housing along with increasing investments in the expansion of commercial, healthcare, academic, and public infrastructures is forecasted to impact the market growth of modular construction. But what makes modular construction the perfect solution for this increased demand? It all rests on the numerous benefits that modular construction provides.

Flexibility & Reusability

Just like with legos, the modules used in modular construction offer a lot of design possibilities, adhering to the needs of various clients. Furthermore, these buildings can be disassembled to allow for the relocation of the modules. This is particularly true for temporary modular buildings.

Built with Quality Materials under Controlled Conditions

Modular buildings are built to meet or exceed the same building codes and standards used for conventionally constructed buildings. The same high-quality materials are utilized in the manufacture of the modules. Since these modules are made in such controlled environments, it lessens the exposure of the prefabricated parts and materials to rain during the construction phase—meaning a decreased chance of having trapped moisture in the structure. 

Saves Time and Cuts Cost

The modular construction process allows for two major steps in the construction to happen concurrently: (1) the site development plus the laying of the foundations and (2) the beginning of the construction of the building itself. 

This is because modules can be manufactured at the factor—there’s no need to wait for the site or the foundations to be ready; the modules are ready to be installed right away. This process saves time and even requires less manpower, thereby cutting down costs exponentially.  

Reduced Weather-Related Delays

Because about 60-90% of modular construction is completed in the factory, reducing the amount of time needed for construction to be done on-site. This lessens the risk of weather delays that can seriously cripple long-running construction projects, especially in Toronto where our winter season is long. 

Less Waste

As the modules are manufactured in the factory, waste is reduced by recycling materials, cross-utilization of inventory, and by protecting the materials being used. These are the advantages of having these modules manufactured at scale. 

Safe and Clean Installation

On account of the modules being prefabricated, you won’t need to worry about disruptions that normally occur in conventional construction. These disruptions can take the form of noise pollution, dust, debris, and the like. The simplified and quicker process in modular construction also reduces the risks of accidents and related liabilities for workers. 

Why Choose Modular?

If you like to get construction projects done with less time, cost, and stress, you can definitely count on modular construction. Just imagine getting a project done in just months - or less. Imagine not being afraid of unpredictable weather that will keep extending the construction time. Additionally, if you’re looking for a construction solution that won’t disturb your home or business while it’s ongoing, modular construction is your best bet. 

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!