The Costs Behind Modular Construction

By Jeff Dusing

Modular construction, when compared to conventional construction, is extremely cost effective. By way of cutting construction time, minimizing labor costs, and decreasing overall project waste, the process of modular construction allows for quality craftsmanship without high costs.

Conventional construction labor is expensive, as are material costs. In addition, traditional onsite construction is vulnerable to substantial delays resulting in financial loss due to inclement weather that ruins materials and adds labor costs.

Because modular homes are built in a factory, many of the traditional construction hang-ups can be avoided. This assembly-line type of efficiency ensures that the prefabricated building is not only built quickly, but it is built for quality. Modular factories often take advantage of the latest in production technology, making sure that each manufactured structures built to strongly withstand the stresses of transportation from factory to its final location, as well as the normal wear and tear of the environment surrounding the building when it is complete.

At the same time that a modular building is being fabricated in a separate factory location, construction specialists simultaneously grade the land on which the home or business is set to be assembled, and then lay a foundation to provide support as needed for the incoming modules. At approximately the same time that foundation is finished, specialists deliver the modules. Electrical wiring and plumbing are all installed before transportation (without the concern of hiring separate contractors), and redundant quality control checks confirm manufacturing accuracy before a building leaves the facility.

When all pieces are set to go, they are transported to the foundation site and assembled quickly. Within days of finishing the foundation, the finishing exterior touches are added, the utilities are connected, and the building is ready for use. Because this method employs simultaneous in-factory construction and on-site preparation, modular cuts building times nearly in half. As lenders expect payments to begin the day builders break ground, the sooner the project is finished: the better.

The efficiency of the factory setting not only protects materials, it also allows materials to be used as cost effectively as possible. Supply orders and manufacturing are much more controlled in this setting, cutting construction waste by up to 90% in comparison to traditional on-site building methods, and facility storage allows for unused materials to be utilized on the next project.

Overall, modular construction is becoming a popular choice for those seeking to save money on residential or commercial construction, without sacrificing quality.

• Sources: modspace.com

Jeff Dusing has been the Communications Manager for ModSpace since early 2010. He writes articles regarding construction industry news and trends on the Modspace blog and through the other social media sites including LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.

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