The Modular Building Construction Process

A modular structure can be of great benefit to your company because they are an easily transferable, durable, and sustainable building practice. It’s important to understand the modular building construction process, as it shows the stability and precision of a prefabricated building.

After reading this blog, you’ll understand how BOXX Modular will construct your next modular structure with the same, if not better, quality and standards as other construction methods.

Planning Your Modular Building Construction

What are your goals for this modular structure? How long will you need it? These are important questions to ask as you begin the modular building process. Answering these questions will help determine the modular structure your company needs.

A prefabricated building can be beneficial in a variety of industries, and for a variety of projects. In some cases, you may need a specialized building that is blast-resistant or used as a storage container. BOXX Modular provides structures for the following industries:

Commercial & Industrial
Construction
Emergency Response
Oil and Gas
Government
Special Events
And more!

Designing and Engineering Your Modular Structure

This phase of preconstruction is crucial to the success of the modular building process. We will use building information modelling, or BIM, to construct your prefab structure into a 3D model. This allows architects, engineers, and contractors to collaborate and potentially pinpoint any downfalls before production starts.

BIM gives all team members access to the blueprints and projects so they can look back at them whenever necessary. This is especially useful when designing a custom modular building, so everyone can have a clear understanding of what the end product will look like.

Understanding the National Standards

The CAN/UL 2600 Standard for Relocatable Structures is a national standard across Canada. It has been updated to provide safety and quality management measurements so consumers can ensure they are getting a reliable and secure modular building.

Another prefab building standard is the CSA-A227 which was created by the Canadian Standard Association. Similar to the standard above, this prefab building code gives commercial modular building manufacturers guidelines for the construction process.

These standards are created by working with a collection of stakeholders in the industry and government, so it’s ensured that best practices are followed nationwide. In addition, the Modular Building Institute has a Canadian Council established to continue innovation and growth within the modular industry.

The Canadian Standards Association must certify your prefabricated building, and the qualifications will depend on your site location. For example, Quebec has a prefab building code specific to its location.

Your commercial modular building manufacturers will be able to assist you in finding and specifying what standards and building codes are required for your prefab structure.

How Your Modular Building is Constructed

Now, let’s get into the production aspect of the modular building construction process. Prefab building construction is an assembly line process, so each part is precise. We’ll go through the physical construction process below.

At BOXX Modular, we have a collection of floor plans and layouts that you can use to base your modular structure on. Or, our commercial modular building manufacturers can create a customized floor plan for your unique needs.

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Each module is built individually, and then eventually stacked together to create your entire building. First, a frame is manufactured, usually out of wood, but can be made out of steel or concrete if necessary.

After the frame is complete, the flooring is fastened to your structure. Then, prefabricated walls are constructed with precision to measure perfectly with each of your modules. Once finished, they are fastened to the frame and flooring.

Before a roof is put onto the module, any custom features are put into place. These specifications can match your brand’s style and working conditions or change the interior layout. Once finalized, a crane will install the roof. In most cases, you’ll want to choose roofing material that absorbs heat and melts snow faster.

Final components, like HVAC systems and wiring, are the last piece of the modular building construction process. This step also includes installing weatherproofing finishes, doors, and trims. Since this step is integrated into the modular process, you’ll save time and money.

The complete structure is then cleaned and prepped to be transported to its final destination. You can watch a video of the typical modular construction process here.

Adding Furnishings

Depending on the purpose of your prefab building, you may opt to include a set of appliances and furnishing. These will be put in place and ready for use when your structure is delivered. This further eliminates the need for extra steps in your project.

You can include the following packages with your modular structure.

Office: desk, chairs, tables, clocks, calendars
Kitchen: wastebaskets, microwaves, water coolers, coffee makers
Seating & Conference Room: 6’ or 8’ oval tables, swivel chairs

Benefits of the Modular Building Process

When you compare modular to more traditional construction methods, there are multiple benefits to your company choosing modular. A majority of these benefits come from the modular building construction process being completed in an off-site, controlled environment.

Quickened Timeline. Modular construction is completed up to 50% faster than traditional construction. The Maple Reinders Waste Water treatment plant needed a modular office and the entire project was 2,400 square feet and completed in just 30 days.
Better Estimated Costs. Since construction is in a controlled environment, you will have a better idea of the costs and materials needed for your modular project.
Reduced Material Waste. Similar to the benefit above, reducing material waste is not only saving your company money but is a more environmentally-friendly choice.
A More Sustainable Process. Prefabricated construction meets the highest LEED standard certifications.
Increased Safety. Having minimal crewmembers on the physical site can help reduce the risk of injury and human error.