The Truth About Modular Construction
People often look at modular construction in a negative light, thinking they are similar to portables, though this is not the case. Modular construction simply refers to the use of standardized modular framing units. These framing units often come in 12’x40’ and 10’x32’ sections that can be combined for endless design possibilities. Single and two story building are easily constructed with modular frames. Although modular frames do limit the designs to some extent curved walls and small additions can easily be added to enhance the aesthetics. In a concept design for Roseland University Prep our design features curved exterior walls, and long sweeping hallways, this design, however, is based around offset 12’x40’ modular frames.
The curvelinear facade of Roseland University Prep.
Modular frames offer many advantages to standard ground up construction. First off modular buildings offer a significant reduction in construction costs, engineering cost, review time, and fabrication time. Modular frames are often shipped to the site and erected there making the building entirely site built, but because the entire frame can be erected in only a day or two (for smaller buildings) the construction time is dramatically reduced. Modular buildings can also be built with moment frames, meaning no shear walls or diagonal structural members are needed, allowing for full glass walls, a very expensive task in normal construction.
Modular posts and ceilings being installed on site for the Roseland Elementary Library
We have experience with many modular companies including Jeff Luchetti Construction and American Modular. At the moment we are working with Jeff Luchetti Construction on a two story modular at Parkside Intermediate School. In each case the buildings we have constructed have met all the client’s needs and often surpassed the client’s wildest dreams for a modular building.