Over the past few years, the number of businesses and organisations relying on modular constructions has greatly increased. This is due to the ever-increasing quality of pre-fabricated buildings and dissatisfaction with traditional construction. Modular buildings play a key role in many properties, including hospitals, schools and more. However, there are still many arguments which claim that traditional construction is better value for money.
Cotaplan are proud to offer a full range of prefabricated construction services to our clients. Of course, our team believes that modular buildings offer huge benefits when compared to traditional construction. However, we are here to take an honest look at modular vs traditional construction. We are committed to providing our customers with the best facilities to suit their needs. The last thing we want to do is construct a modular solution when brick-and-mortar buildings would be more reliable or provide you with better value.
In this blog post we will take a closer look at not only the pros and cons of both traditional construction, and modular buildings, but also answer some of those key questions we often get asked by business owners and organisations trying to make a decision on what the best option is for them.
What is the Difference between Modular Construction and Traditional Construction?
For the uninitiated among you, let’s start off with probably the most obvious and important question: What is the difference between the two? Brick-and-mortar construction has been a mainstay of the building industry for hundreds of years. Most homes and businesses in the UK are made this way. In the past, this has been the most reliable and affordable construction method. All traditional constructions, whether it is residential, commercial or industrial are subject to building regulations which give you peace of mind that your property has been well built.
Modular construction is a relatively new style of construction where the building is manufactured off site in a controlled factory environment in sections or modules. These modules are transported to site and assembled in situ. The fact that modular buildings are constructed in a controlled environment guarantees quality and the reduction in waste makes it an eco-friendly method of construction.
Advances in technology mean that today’s modular buildings bear absolutely no resemblance to those that first appeared on the market, which is why they are now seen as not only a viable alternative to, but in some cases a better option than traditional constructions.
So, that’s the difference, now let’s take a closer look at two methods of construction, the pros and cons and deal with some of those questions you might want answered.
Traditional Constructions
Most people are familiar with how traditional brick and mortar construction works. After the initial planning procedure, and once you’ve got planning permission, the site will be excavated. Foundations are then put in and the walls built using bricks and mortar. The roof is put on. There is then first and second fix work to install electrics and other utilities. As you can see there are a lot of different components that go into traditional constructions which is why they can often take some time to complete.
Traditional construction is reliable and hard-wearing. These buildings can survive for many years in harsh environments with limited maintenance required. They can be constructed in a wide range of shapes and sizes. Brick-and-mortar buildings, if they are constructed correctly and maintained when required, can last for several generations. However that doesn’t mean they are without issues which people were prepared to accept until another mode of construction came to the market. Some of the questions we get asked about traditional construction include:
Why does traditional construction take so long?
They are a number of different reasons why there could be a delay in the completion of a traditional construction. Things such as gaining planning permission, unavailability of tradesmen or materials and adverse weather conditions are all things that can have an impact on project timelines. This is why traditional construction is no longer suitable for the type of project where a quick turnaround is required.
How much disruption does traditional construction cause?
Traditional building creates a great deal of disruption in the surrounding areas. Brick-and-mortar is a loud construction method which can be incredibly disruptive. It is also guilty of creating a great deal of waste, even when carried out by trained professionals. Disruption caused by these projects is simply unavoidable.
How Much Does Traditional Construction Cost?
There are a number of significant costs associated with any traditional construction. Not only do you have to factor in the cost of materials, but also the number of different trades who work on the project such as bricklayers, joiners, electricians, plumbers and plasterers. There have even been cases where escalating costs due to a project overrunning has led to projects being abandoned.
Can you Adapt a Traditionally Constructed Building?
While traditional buildings can be adapted once they have been built it can often be a disruptive and costly process. If you want to add an extension onto your property it is usually a big undertaking. This means if your current property suddenly becomes unsuitable you would need to relocate or pay some hefty renovation costs.
Modular Buildings
So, we’ve covered traditional construction methods. Now let’s have a look at modular buildings, how the process differs and why new improved technology has helped change the face of the construction industry.
Do you Need Foundations when Building Modularly?
Prefabricated construction projects will begin in the same way as traditional buildings. Evaluations will need to be carried out, the earth will need to be excavated and foundations installed. Once the foundations are in-place, the modular construction will begin to take place.
Where are Modular Buildings Constructed?
Modular Constructions are not on-site. Instead, they are manufactured in factory conditions elsewhere. This means that essential features, including walls, ceilings and other surfaces, will be constructed to a high-standard away from the property.
Once the foundations have been laid, these components will be delivered to the construction site. The fact that they are constructed in factory controlled conditions means that modular buildings are subject to the highest standard of quality control. This means that you are guaranteed to receive a product of the highest quality.
How Quickly Can You Get a Modular Building?
Due to the simplicity of modular construction, the projects can be completed extremely quickly. While the foundations are being laid, the modular components will be manufactured at the factory. Once they are delivered at your worksite, they can be erected in a short period of time.This makes them the perfect choice in situations where you need extra space quickly, maybe due to a business expansion.
Are Modular Buildings Eco-Friendly?
Modular construction generates less waste and has an increased use of sustainable materials. As such, prefabricated buildings are some of the most environmentally-friendly in the world.
How Much Disruption is Caused by Modular Constructions?
The fact that they can be erected with minimum fuss is one of the main benefits of modular constructions. Modular construction projects are much quicker and less disruptive than traditional buildings. This makes them ideal for locations which need to be used while construction is ongoing, such as hospitals and schools.
Is modular building cheaper?
Due to the low price of materials and the reduced project time, modular construction is cheaper than traditional building. If you’re looking to create a high-quality building at a reduced price, then modular construction is ideal.
How are the Components of Modular Buildings Delivered?
In some cases, delivering materials to the site can be a problem. Some of these modular components can be large in size, requiring a large vehicle. If there are issues such as narrow roads, low bridges or heavy traffic, delivering these materials can be an issue. However don’t let this put you off as a solution can always be found.
Can you Build Anything with Modular Building Methods?
Yes, modular building methods are highly versatile, allowing for the construction of almost any type of structure, from residential homes to modular offices, hospitals, classrooms, and even multi-story buildings. Using prefabricated modules, modular construction can be customised in design, size, and layout, making it adaptable to a wide range of projects. While certain highly specialised structures may require traditional methods, modular construction meets the needs of most modern architectural designs efficiently and effectively.
Why are Modular Buildings not used more often?
By far the greatest barrier to modular construction remains public perception. Despite their high-quality and reliability, prefabricated buildings are still seen as fairly flimsy or vulnerable buildings. There is still some distance to go before modular buildings are accepted as the logical successor to traditional construction.
How long has Modular Building Existed?
Modular building has been around for over 100 years now with some of the earliest ones dating back to the early 1900s. For example, prefabricated home kits were sold in the U.S. by Sears Roebuck co, between 1908 and 1940.
Modular construction gained some popularity after the second world war when quick, affordable housing solutions were needed for soldiers returning from the war and their families. More recently, advancements in modern technology have seen modular constructions starting to play a more important role in construction as a short and long term solution.
Why Choose Cotaplan for your Modular Construction?
Here at Cotaplan, we’re able to provide a full range of modular buildings and prefabricated constructions. We can deliver industry-leading prefab properties to homes and businesses of all kinds. In the past, our team has worked to provide unique spaces for schools, hospitals and other facilities across the UK.
If you’re looking for modular buildings instead of traditional construction, get in touch today. Even if you have questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call our specialist team today. You can call us directly on 0800 7999049 today. If you prefer, you can use our simple online contact form, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
