“Standardization and a factory-like quality control process could lead to fewer problems once buildings are put into service, a Suffolk executive says.”
Why this is important: Modular construction is not new. However, it is becoming more mainstream--accounting for over 5 percent of total construction activity in the U.S.--and for good reason. Without the need to coordinate and stage all building materials and equipment on site, without the impact of varying weather conditions, and the problem of coordination of tradespeople who do not normally work together on similar jobs each day, modular construction can certainly save facility owners time and money over traditional stick-built construction. Moreover, in the more controlled environment of modular construction, plumbing, electrical, and mechanical connections throughout the building can be planned and even tested before the “modules” are transported to a site. The more frequently certain module models are built, the more efficient the modular construction company can become.
Often, schools and colleges have time constraints in construction to avoid significant disruptions in the classrooms, laboratories, dorms and campus facilities. In addition, once the facilities are in use, school leaders can find it difficult to schedule building inspections and repairs that allow learning to continue. One way educational facility construction can minimize construction-related challenges--both from initial construction and from an operational and maintenance perspective--is to incorporate modular construction on campuses.
There are approximately more than 250 modular manufacturing companies in North America, one of which is Suffolk Construction. James Stanley, Executive Vice President and Los Angeles Division Manager for Suffolk Construction, was interviewed for the referenced article. Mr. Stanley observed that California Polytechnic State University plans to address expanding student housing needs with modular housing to bring 3,000 additional beds to the university over 10 years. Given the evolution of modular construction that can incorporate more sophisticated designs for good value to the owner, Mr. Stanley points out that modular construction can incorporate standardized base components that may be enhanced or “stacked” on site. According to Mr. Stanley, “Cal Poly could expect to get the main structure for a 100-unit building completed in seven days – 30% quicker than if stick-built – using the modular method, with roughly corresponding savings in cost.
Having worked for a modular home contractor and watched entire homes being constructed in assembly line fashion inside controlled warehouses near Martinsville, VA, I can personally attest to the time and cost savings of this construction process. If you have questions regarding the potential use of modular construction on your next project, give our construction team a call. --- Stephanie U. Eaton
