The manner building components are put together is the primary difference between prefabricated and traditional construction. Building components are only assembled and constructed once on-site using conventional construction methods. Construction sites are where builders build foundations, walls, roofs, and other elements.
Building components, or modules, used in prefabricated steel buildings, are made in a controlled industrial setting before being transported to the job site to ensure quality and safety. Finishings for the inside and exterior can be made using these components. After that, they are delivered to the construction site, secured to the current foundation, and swiftly put together.
Foundation
The foundation is one of the primary distinctions between prefabricated and conventional buildings. The foundation for traditional construction, sometimes known as “stick-built” buildings, is created on-site utilizing ground holes, concrete, and wooden piers.
A crane hoists prefabricated elements onto a solid foundation in the prefabricated building. They are then often fastened to the ground with steel straps. Both construction methods produce foundations that are strong and secure.
Cost
It is common knowledge that modular buildings have many advantages over traditional construction, chief among them being cost-effectiveness. Due to factors like different building components, labor hours, personnel shortages, weather conditions, and other unknown variables, traditional construction expenses can mount up.
90% of the manufacturing for prefabricated construction is done in a regulated factory setting, which reduces costs. Several strategies to cut costs include:
- Adopting standard building modules.
- Avoiding bad weather.
- Shortening labor hours.
- Avoiding problems like labor shortages.
Industry experts predict that switching to modular construction from traditional construction can reduce overall building expenditures by 20% or more.
Design
There are various design alternatives available for both modular and conventional construction techniques. Traditional construction uses parts that are made on-site, making it more adaptable to specific designs.
Modules used in prefabricated buildings have some design restrictions. However, modules are renowned for being adaptable and capable of assuming various designs. Before beginning, ensure you are comfortable with the plan by working with your modular provider to explore design possibilities.
Additionally, modules frequently adopt cutting-edge, current designs, which is excellent for people with modern tastes. Remember that both conventional and modular architecture can accommodate future building extensions. Both modules and traditional building components can be created to match the exterior of your existing structure.
Construction speed
Construction time can be cut in half by using a modular design. This makes it an attractive choice, especially considering quicker construction implies lower labor costs.
On-site laborers and craftsmen are used in traditional construction, and they must figure out how to put the building components together as they go. When opposed to transporting prefabricated items to the site, this requires more time. Other factors that can cause delays include bad weather and the need to buy extra parts while working on the project. Traditionally built homes often take 6 to 16 months to complete.
The use of prefabricated steel buildings drastically cuts down on construction time. After most of the work is completed off-site, the modules can be attached swiftly and effectively on-site. When you choose modularly, you won’t have to worry about unforeseen delays brought on by the weather or other factors. Typically, modular construction takes 6 to 8 weeks or less to complete.
