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October 1, 2018

The Modular Building Construction Process Explained

By the end of World War II, the demand for housing and building witnessed a rise because soldiers that had survived the war were coming back. They decided to settle down and raise families so a mode of construction that was both time and cost efficient was in high demand. This was when modular building companies made their first appearance. They built structures wherein the parts or modules of a building were fabricated in a factory away from the site of construction and were then transported and installed on the site. Soon, modular buildings were on the favorite list and were used to construct housing societies, schools, hospitals and even churches at sites where comparably traditional construction would have been too tough on time and money. Today the construction of modular buildings is evolving with the cutting edge technological development.Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/

How are Modular Buildings Constructed?

A modular building company constructs separate parts or modules in a factory away from the main site but the construction doesn’t just start up, the process of modular construction goes in steps.

Design

Every construction needs an architectural design. The first step for modular construction is similar. A design is created for the house or building that has to be erected. The designer takes into context the following markers:

  • What the client wants, e.g. number of rooms, style of the roof, number of floors, floor design, kitchen design, etc.
  • Environment and climatic conditions of the site to determine how many floors can be erected and what material and method should be used to tackle harsh weathers.
  • The budget of the client.
  • Properties of the ground to ascertain the type of foundation.

Engineering Reviews

After the designs have been finalized, they go to the engineering department for a review of the standards of safety and performance. Engineering reviews are mandatory in order to make sure that the building meets certain codes of building and construction set by the government like the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).

Getting Permits

A construction or major renovation of any building requires permits from the state jurisdiction. The client is responsible for getting the permits by appointing a general contractor as his representative so he can acquire the required permits for construction on his property. Failure to do the same results in penalties or even demolition of the building by government officials. The permits generally include:

  • Site plan
  • Building permit
  • Mechanical permit
  • Plumbing permit
  • Concrete permit

Site Development

While the modules for the building are fabricated in the offsite factory, the site is developed for the installation of modules. Firstly, the site is surveyed for contours of the land. Secondly, the land is excavated and graded to a level for the foundation. Then the drainage for the site is laid down and finally the foundation on which the modules are to be installed is constructed.

Module Fabrication

The fabrication of the module begins with a welded steel frame loaded onto the assembly line. The base floors, walls and ceilings are then fabricated on the frame and the electrical and plumbing services are added. The module is then insulated with the main floors and walls. Then the interior finishing, including painting and flooring, is completed while the windows and doors are attached. The module is prepared for transportation after the exterior finish is completed.

Transportation of modules

After finishing the module fabrication, the modules are transported to the site for installation. The modules are transported by road on trailers or tow trucks. The transportation depends on the design or purpose of the modules. For a big settlement like a workmen’s camp, the modules are transported in stages for the installation.

Installation

After the modules have been transported to the site of construction, they are set in place to fix the panels and joints. For a permanent or grade foundation, the modules are supposed to be put in place by a crane, while for temporary foundations the modules are placed using simpler mechanical methods. The contractor, who is experienced in modular construction, then installs and fixes the modules and installs the utility and electrical services.If you are interested in a modular home or a business-oriented building, contact Northgate Industries, the first choice for South Edmonton in modular buildings.

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We offer new, used and custom made modular buildings in a wide range of sizes and styles. Our experienced sales staff will work closely with you to understand your unique requirements and your budget.