A History of Modular Buildings
19 June 2014
Posh Pre-Fabs
23 June 2014The Myths of Modular Building – Fact or Fiction?
Modular building is a versatile and dynamic method of construction that has been gaining in popularity in recent years. Despite this, there is still some confusion over the processes involved. This may sometimes lead people to hesitate before choosing modular as a construction method for their project.
As experts in modular building with a range of exciting projects in their portfolio, the Reds10 team is well-placed to clear up some of the myths that still surround modular building. Here are some of the most prevalent modular myths and the facts that will finally put them to rest.
Myth 1
Modular buildings are only temporary
Fact: Modular construction can produce permanent, multi-storey buildings that last for decades. For example, the permanent modular dormitory that ModSpace built for Muhlenberg College in Pennsylvania in 2002 remains an integral part of the campus. Although modular units are relatively simple to assemble and connect, this doesn’t mean they aren’t durable enough to last a long time.
Myth 2
Modular buildings are low quality
Fact: Modular building is held to the same International Building Codes as traditional construction, as well as complying with the same local and regional building standards. The buildings are prefabricated in a factory, so construction managers and engineers can scrutinise the process and make sure every aspect of the building is up to these high standards of quality and durability.
Myth 3
Modular buildings are boring
Fact: Because of the way modular buildings are designed and built, they can be just as creative and versatile as traditional buildings and are often more attractive than their traditional counterparts. Construction Digital Magazine has identified modular building as a top trend, as architects turn to modular to create visually stunning buildings. Reds10 has used modular methods to create a winery on the San Francisco bay, a lavish real estate sales offices and countless classic and contemporary school buildings.
Myth 4
Modular buildings are not sustainable
Fact: Modular buildings are built from the same materials as traditional structures, making them just as kind to the environment. Because they’re prefabricated in a factory, modular buildings have the added benefit of much lower waste, with heavy equipment use at construction sites also greatly reduced. Modular buildings can also be deconstructed and reused at new locations, making them more sustainable in the long run.
Myth 5
Modular is brand new, untested and unreliable
Fact: Modular construction has been perfected over decades, finding uses in many different industries all over the world. In fact, the large residential developer Forest City Ratner chose modular for its current high-rise housing project in Brooklyn, New York. The use of modular building on this scale demonstrates the confidence that modern developers place in the durability and cost effectiveness of modular construction.
Don’t let these myths fool you – modular building uses cutting-edge technology to create attractive and flexible designs, and has done for many years. This gives clients affordable, high-quality buildings in as little as half the time it takes to construct a traditional building, leading to shorter projects and quicker profits. And that’s a fact.
If you want to discuss your modular building options with a qualified professional, speak to any member of the Reds10 team today.
