Frequently Asked Questions About Modular Classroom Buildings

Basically, you have the options of a temporary modular classroom building and a custom permanent modular classroom building.

Don’t jump to a conclusion yet, because there are two important defining factors needed to create the foundation for all other decisions made around a modular classroom building project, and they are as follows:

• Why is space needed?
• How long will space be needed?

How you answer these two questions is what defines whether you need a standard lease building or a more customized long-term solution.  Your answers along with the governing regulatory bodies will also dictate how the site is developed for the building and around the building.  The answers will even help you develop a conversation about funding for the project.

You likely can relate to one of these sample answers, and what it might mean for you:

EXAMPLE 1

Why is space needed? For displaced students and faculty during a renovation project.

How long will space be needed? Two years.

In this example, it makes a lot of sense to lease a standard modular classroom building for a two-year period.  This will provide the on-site space needed, help contain your expenses, and ultimately allow you to free up the land where the building is located when the renovation project is complete.  Should you expect the renovation to exceed 5 years, it may be wise to consider purchasing the building instead of leasing or even negotiating a lease with a buyout.  Leases can typically be renewed or extended should the need go beyond the initially expected lease term.

EXAMPLE 2

Why is space needed? School classrooms are overcrowded.

How long will space be needed?  We are not sure because a long-term solution needs to be discussed and funding needs to be approved for the capital expenditure required to expand.  We must solve the overcrowding right away and figure the rest out later.

This is an extremely common example we see in schools today.  Most schools decide to take the temporary modular classroom solution and see how things play out because they can fund the leasing expense with their operating budget.  Some schools choose double-wide classrooms because it gives them a tight variable control of their leased temporary space.  Other schools opt for large modular classroom complex buildings, that operate as self-contained stand-along school buildings on campus.  Logistics, security, practicality, and need all must play a role in what sort of approach your school chooses. BOXX Modular is your expert resource who can walk you through the pros and cons of both approaches.

EXAMPLE 3

Why is space needed? School classrooms are overcrowded.

How long will space be needed?  We have funding in place and are ready to build permanent space, but we need it built before the upcoming school year

Permanent modular building construction is the perfect solution for this scenario.  When the construction schedule is a top priority, there is no better method for getting the new space within the time required, than with modular.  All your interior and exterior customization needs can be met, and you will be amazed at how quickly the building comes together.  It’s all because the modular building is built in road-transportable sections (“modules) at an off-site location inside a factory at the same time the construction site is being prepared for its arrival.

Modular buildings really shine when it comes to leasing, because of their ability to be quickly installed on your site then removed for reuse when they are no longer needed.

On the custom permanent side of things, modular building construction stands out as your top pick when your driving focus is a short construction schedule.  If price takes priority over schedule, then the pros and cons of cost, quality, and schedule must be compared with site-built construction for your specific project.  This will ensure have the information necessary to make the best decision possible.

The method of modular construction, temporary or permanent, can be used to build practically any type of building.

In our recent blog, we discussed the dimensions and size of a typical portable classroom building. In addition to building size, it is also important to understand the costs that you can anticipate when planning to build your school’s classrooms.

The costs of a modular classroom building depend on several factors; such as if the classrooms are permanent or temporary if they are leased or purchased, and if there are extra features added.

Purchasing

A general rule of thumb is that typical modular building sale prices range between $50-$100 per square foot (not including site-work, delivery, and installation).

Custom modular classroom buildings have a broader price range, from $70-$400+ per square foot. Each modular building has its own unique set of specifications, so it is important to understand that these ranges are for a general frame of reference.  The level of customization is what drives the price (i.e. Exterior Finishes).

Leasing

When looking to lease a standard modular building, rates can be anywhere from $1 to $1.50 per square foot each month (not including site-work, delivery, and installation).  Lease term and building size will be the primary drivers of your monthly rate.

BOXX Modular or your selected modular building dealer typically will handle most, if not all these services for clients.