How to Identify the Right Site and Project for Modular Construction

Modular construction is on the rise among large-scale project developers. As the demand for efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable building solutions grows, modular construction offers a compelling alternative to traditional methods. 

Modular can work for most large-scale projects as has been proven all over the world, but there are some that are better suited to leverage the full benefits. We’re here to help you in choosing the best site and project for your next modular endeavor. 

An Explanation of Modular Construction 

To understand the possibilities of modular, you first need to understand how modular construction works. 

Modular buildings are assembled with, you guessed it, modules. These modules are built off-site in a factory while the first several floors are built through the traditional method. The modules are then transported to the site and craned into place, where they are connected to form a cohesive structure. This process not only speeds up the construction timeline but also enhances quality control, as the modules are built in a controlled environment. 

By separating the construction of modules from the site preparation and foundation work, modular construction allows for a more streamlined and efficient building process. This approach reduces disruptions caused by weather and site conditions, minimizes waste, and often results in significant cost savings. 

Further, some modular manufacturers, like Volumetric Building Companies (VBC), can also supply the furniture and deliver fully furnished modules to the site, creating a one-stop-shop solution. 

Understanding these fundamentals is essential as you begin to explore how to identify the right site and project for modular construction. 

Best Projects for Modular Construction 

Projects that require a lot of rooms and compartments are best suited for modular construction. This includes: 

• Healthcare facilities 
• Student housing 
• Hotels 
• Apartments 
• Senior living 

Alternatively, projects that require large open spaces, like offices or convention centers, may not be as suitable for modular construction. These projects often need expansive, uninterrupted spaces that can be challenging to achieve with modular units, which are typically smaller and designed to be combined into larger structures. The need for large, open floor plans can result in structural limitations and increased complexity, making traditional construction methods more appropriate for these types of buildings. 

Best Site Characteristics for Modular Construction 

Choosing the right site is crucial for the success of any construction project, and modular construction is no different. The characteristics of your site can significantly influence the efficiency, cost, and overall success of your modular project. 

Close to a modular facility 

Why: Save on transportation costs. 

Proximity to a modular manufacturing facility reduces transportation costs and time. The closer your site is to the factory, the less you’ll spend on transporting the modules, which can be a significant portion of the overall budget. For this reason, VBC has modular facilities in close proximity to high cost to build markets all over the world, which brings us to our next point. 

In a high cost to build market 

Why: The majority of construction (modules in factory) is done in lower-cost areas, cutting costs significantly compared to doing all of the construction on site. Examples include New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. 

In high-cost markets, labor and material costs are often exorbitant. By building the majority of your project off-site in areas with lower construction costs, you can achieve substantial savings. This makes modular construction particularly advantageous in cities where traditional construction expenses are prohibitively high. 

Road accessibility to lot 

Why: Modules need to be transported by road. 

Good road access is essential for transporting large modules to the construction site. Ensure that the routes leading to your lot can accommodate the size and weight of the modules, and check for any potential obstacles such as low underpasses or narrow roads. 

Different facilities will have different module sizes depending on a number of factors. For example, California law requires that any modules taller than 16 ft. must have a California Highway Patrol (CHP) escort when transporting. For this reason, at VBC, we keep our modules at 15 ft. 9 in. to ensure we don’t cross that max height threshold and incur higher costs for our client. 

Minimal powerlines 

Why: Powerlines can get in the way of craning in the modules. 

Overhead powerlines can pose significant challenges during the installation of modular units. They can obstruct the path of cranes and other heavy equipment needed to position the modules. Sites with minimal or no powerlines overhead allow for a safer and more efficient installation process, reducing the likelihood of delays and additional costs. 

Flat lot 

Why: Minimal grading and leveling are necessary. 

A flat lot requires less site preparation, which can save both time and money. This simplifies the construction process and reduces the potential for unexpected costs and delays. 

Rectangular lot 

Why: Easier to design. 

Rectangular lots are typically more straightforward to design for modular construction. They allow for a more efficient layout of modules and can make the design process smoother and faster. 

Is Modular Construction Right for Your Project? 

Choosing the right site and project type for modular construction can significantly impact the success of your development. By understanding the unique characteristics that make a site ideal for modular construction and selecting projects best suited to this method, you can leverage the efficiency, cost savings, and speed that modular building offers. 

From high-cost markets to sites with excellent road accessibility, ensuring your project aligns with these optimal conditions can lead to a smoother construction process and a better final outcome. 

Contact VBC today to find out if modular construction is the right choice for your project. Our team of experts is ready to help you assess your site and guide you through the entire process, ensuring you maximize the benefits of modular construction for your next development.