Modular construction

Modular construction, sometimes called volumetric construction, allows buildings or substantial parts of buildings, to be constructed in a factory environment. Wall, floor and ceiling frames can be manufactured efficiently using light steel sections. Wall frames typically comprise vertical steel studs with top and bottom tracks, and either bracing or sheathing boards to prevent racking. Floor and wall cassettes comprise horizontal joists connected together at both of their ends with a channel or similar section. Alternatively they may be constructed in-situ from individual members.

Two types of module are commonly used: modules with columns that transfer forces as point loads, and modules with load bearing walls that transfer vertical forces along their length in a similar fashion to conventional load bearing construction.

The size of modules is usually determined by transport and lifting criteria. Hotel rooms, student study-bedrooms and bathrooms are normally built as single modules, whilst larger spaces, such as payment areas and shops at filling station, and fast food restaurants are generally constructed from several open sided modules installed side by side.

Other important applications of modular construction include prefabricated plant rooms and toilets. Structural sizes are similar to those given for light steel frames in the previous section. Hybrid modular construction implies the use of modules with panels or conventionally constructed building elements. Houses for example, may be constructed with modules for those areas that require complex fittingout such as kitchens, bathrooms and staircases, whilst the remaining areas (sometimes termed baggy space) are constructed using panels or built in-situ.