Modular construction explained

When you need guaranteed quality, high-performance buildings constructed sustainably and fast – modular construction is the answer

Off-site construction (also known as modular or volumetric construction) creates all the quality of a traditional, permanent building, with the speed and flexibility of off-site manufacture. It’s the ideal solution for the demands of 21st century construction. No other method of construction can match it for speed of delivery, reduced disruption and future flexibility.

How it works…

Modular or volumetric buildings are manufactured off-site in a controlled factory environment and are fully fitted with all electrics, plumbing, heating and internal finishes before they leave our production centre. This means we are able to minimise installation times and disruption to your site.

Modules are delivered to site by road, where they are craned onto prepared foundations in a matter of days – depending on the size of the building – saving you valuable time and money.

1. Individual modules are lowered into position by crane.
2. As many modules as you need are added and linked to create the required floor area.
3. A single building is created. Internal layouts can be designed to your exact specifications.
4. Additional storeys can be added to create as much space as you need.

Why choose modular construction?

• Cost and time certainty – 99.9% of our buildings are delivered on time and on budget¹ – compared with a construction-industry average of only 59% on time and 46% on budget.²
• Factory manufacture under controlled conditions means construction is not disrupted by site skills shortages or adverse weather conditions
• Efficiency and safety – using modular construction means less disruption and time spent on site, creating a cleaner, quieter and safer site operation
• Drastically reduced completion times – build times up to 50% faster than traditional building methods, giving you earlier occupancy and a faster return on investment
• Flexibility for the future – you can change the layout, expand or even relocate with the minimum of fuss
• Fewer defects – due to precision factory manufacture, which means less snagging
• Less wastage – off-site construction generates up to 90% less waste than traditional on-site building methods³
• Fewer vehicle movements – off-site construction results in 90% fewer vehicle movements⁴ on the construction site

Your questions answered

If you would like to know more about modular or volumetric construction, or if you’d like to see the manufacturing or installation process for yourself, please contact us today!

1. Based on Portakabin order analysis for July 2009 - June 2010. The Ultima Building System is provided by Portakabin Limited. 
2. Office for National Statistics*, Construction statistics annual 2009.
3. Source: WRAP.
4. Source: Mtech.

* Crown copyright 2009, reproduced under the terms of a Public Sector Information Licence.