Podcast Interview: Episode 1 of “Built Modular” an Interview with Senior Vice President, Peter Eberle

Dec 14, 2020

We recently released a podcast series called, “Built Modular”. Its purpose is to help individuals like you to discover how modular construction is changing the way people build space.

In this blog, we outline the details that were discussed in episode one of Built Modular. We will cover various topics including modular construction benefits, uses, industry appeal, market trends, and more. You can listen to the full podcast episode here.

Modular Construction for Temporary Building Needs

Modular buildings are unique in several ways, but their temporary nature is what really makes them stand out. During the current pandemic, temporary modular buildings have been frequently used as COVID-19 testing and screening centers.

They are also used for classroom space during school renovations. While permanent construction is taking place on campus, temporary classrooms can be brought in for a certain length of time to facilitate learning and alleviate disruptions. Temporary modular buildings can also be used as office space while an existing building is replaced due to aging.

Modular construction is on the rise- and the potential market for modular construction is estimated to reach $191B by the year 2027.

The Evolution of Modular Construction

Modular construction first began in the 1920s but took off in the 1980s with a rise in trend of temporary classrooms. Forty years later, modular construction has now become a full-scale alternative construction method. Although designed to be temporary in nature, modular buildings do not lack in quality when it comes to a finished product.

Construction Speed

Modular buildings are built within a manufacturing facility, using assembly-line methods. This creates efficiency, quality, and a cost-effective product. There are other benefits to this construction method as well including the following:

Materials can be purchased in bulk, all at one fixed site.
The manufacturing facility creates a controlled and predictable environment, which increases safety.
While the buildings are constructed in the facility, site work can be done at the same time. This parallel timeline speeds up the overall length of time.
The “plug-and-play” nature of the buildings also allows for quick occupancy.

These are just a few reasons why modular construction has grown in popularity over the last forty years.

Modular is Environmentally Friendly

One of the key traits that makes modular stand out against its competition is that it’s environmentally friendly.

Buildings can be reused time and time again in different locations.
They are framed with wood, which is a renewable resource.
Material waste is minimized by efficient assembly-line processes.

There are now academic courses focused on modular construction. As the industry continues to grow, younger generations are entering the work force and contributing to its development.

How do Temporary and Permanent Modular Buildings Relate?

It is important to know the key differences between temporary and permanent modular buildings, if you are looking to acquire one for your business:

Both are designed to last structurally- about 30 years if maintained properly.
Permanent buildings are often multi-story and designed for long-term occupancy.
Temporary buildings are typically single-level buildings.
Temporary buildings can still serve long term needs, but often while being moved from location to location. They are recycled, repurposed, and used multiple times throughout their lifespan.

Are Temporary Modular Buildings Useful?

Modular buildings can be useful when consolidating or expanding a business. They also limit environmental impacts because there is minimal need to disturb soils when foundations are removed.

Who Uses Temporary Modular Buildings?

The education sector has been a long-time proponent of modular construction. This is mainly due to the speed of modular construction, and that schools are often budget driven. However, there are several other industries who benefit from modular construction:

Commercial- often COVID 19 checkpoints or security offices.
Military
Hospitals & Medical
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech

Where is the Modular Industry Heading?

Modular continues to offer space solutions for businesses in need of a quality product, with flexibility in mind. Modular construction is also the best solution when pressed for time.

Temporary Buildings and Market Trends

There are a few trends that continue to make modular construction a popular consumer’s choice:

Flexibility –today’s needs may not be the same tomorrows.
Layout and finishes can be changed.
ADA compliant structures.
Size and site location can be easily changed.
Maintenance is the same as traditional office buildings.
Short & long-term lease, purchase, and lease-to-own options.

How Do You Help Customers Develop Their Need?

When choosing the right building structure, size is mainly dictated by codes related to occupancy volume. We can physically show customers local examples by looking at our fleet of available buildings. There’s also the option for clients to visit the factory to see the building construction process take place.

About Building Codes

There are several key people who can review for compliance when it comes to the buildings. There is the modular building engineer, the customer’s own architect, as well as the factory review. We spend time communicating with local officials to ensure compliance as well.

Materials & Design

Custom design and materials are available to customers for permanent application. Leased buildings however tend to be more standard in design and appearance. Sometimes customizations are accepted depending on the scope of the project.

BOXX Modular employs people with a lot of experience and who enjoy solving space needs with modular solutions.

The Modular Building Process

These are the 5 main steps of the modular building process:

Site and foundation are prepared while the building is manufactured.
Building sections are delivered, staged, and installed on the foundation.
The seams between the sections are finished.
Final utility, water, and sewer connections are made.
The building finished and ready for occupancy.

Modular Building Teardown & Removal

The teardown and removal are performed by the modular building dealer. Once the customer no longer needs the building, it is disassembled and prepared for return delivery. It’s transported from the customer site back to the redeployment yard so that it can be repurposed and eventually re-used.