Modular Construction Is an Uplifting Solution for Sustainable Projects

By: Evelyn Long

Whether someone wants to expand their business or build a new home, construction is necessary to achieve that goal. However, some building methods harm the environment. Projects also rely on timely material delivery and acceptable weather conditions so that work could be stalled due to outside factors. 

Technological advances and innovation make modular construction a great way to combat the delays of on-site construction and create sustainable solutions.  

What Is Modular Construction?

Modular construction involves producing standardized components for a structure in an off-site factory and assembling it on-site. This method has been around for decades but is now gaining more attention as an effective technique. Moreover, building products such as masonry and concrete are well-suited for prefabrication components of modular construction. This leaves opportunities for sustainable construction in several industries.

Modular construction takes less time than traditional methods, saving the U.S. and European markets up to $22 billion annually. 

The Difference Between Modular and Traditional Construction

Traditional and modular construction has the same goal: producing a new structure. However, modular construction is more effective than its conventional counterpart. Some ways it has proven to be successful include: 

The Construction Process

A typical construction process involves planning and construction, including:

• Design Engineering
• Permits and approvals
• Site development and foundations
• Building Construction
• Site restoration 

It has become more apparent that site development and laying foundations can be combined with construction due to off-site manufacturing.

Construction Duration

Modular construction can save 25-50% of time spent on a construction site versus traditional methods, as weather conditions and cleanliness have little to no impact on the project. A team can prepare the site as workers build the structure off-site. 

Budget

Modular construction results in shorter completion times, saving 20% on resources and labor. Costs are reduced since this construction method includes standardized factory benefits, such as assembly lines. Another significant benefit of modular construction’s approach is bulk discounts in materials, which reduces overall expenses. 

A factory-based construction method also cuts transportation and rework costs since the work zone is in one central location. This makes quality control easier and more efficient because all the necessary materials and equipment are present. 

Safety 

Traditional construction is prone to more accidents, and there is an increased risk of falling debris and failing tools due to outside weather factors. Modular construction takes place in a warehouse, providing an enclosed space with extensive resources and protection from environmental elements. 

Quality

The resources and materials are the same for modular and traditional construction. However, modular provides better quality assurance, as the off-site process is in a controlled environment, limiting the material’s exposure to natural elements. 

Modular Construction and Sustainability 

Construction is necessary for societal advancement. However, traditional methods are responsible for 23% of air pollution, 50% of climate change, 40% of drinking water pollution and 50% of landfill waste. As time passes, these statistics will increase rapidly by 2030.

Modular construction is the best way to reduce the effects of construction on the environment. It has several advantages that can help the environment recover. 

Fewer Carbon Emissions

Carbon emissions trap heat in the atmosphere, warming the planet and affecting the environment. The most significant cause of carbon dioxide emissions is burning fossil fuels, including gas, for transportation. Modular construction reduces carbon emissions by 45% due to an 80% reduction in vehicle movement to one primarily warehouse construction zone. 

Energy Efficiency

When waiting to complete a new building or home, the client wants the result to be as quick as possible. Energy efficiency is the best way to ensure home and business owners achieve the best results quickly. This means achieving desired results in a short amount of time, making the construction process effective while saving costs. 

Modular construction makes energy efficiency possible, allowing workers to bottleneck processes and identify problems before they arise. This results in optimizing the factory layout and limiting resource allocation. 

Reduced Costs

Modular construction’s success is built on the assembly-line process, which reduces costs through efficient production. It limits on-site employees and skilled laborers, saving money on labor and resources. Less Waste

The material and tool estimates to complete a modular construction project are more accurate than those in traditional processes. It reduces the overuse and overordering of materials by up to 20%.

The Waste and Resource Action Program reports that modular construction effectively reduces waste materials, such as timber, cardboard, plastics and concrete, by 90%. 

Modular Construction and Its Positive Impact

Modular construction delivers results in a fraction of the time while saving energy and the environment. Efficient factory ideals speed up a building’s completion at a reduced cost. As the Earth continues to struggle and the need for homes and businesses increases, those looking for new builds can help the environment by opting for this method.

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Evelyn Long is a writer and editor focused on construction and sustainability. Her work can be found on Renovated, a web resource for better building and design.