Volumetric Modular Construction: The Benefits and Challenges

Volumetric modular construction — or volumetric construction — is when builders stack and join factory-finished and prefabricated modules on site to form a complete building, LEGO-style. Almost everything is completed at the factory, leaving only interconnecting or bolting together the completed modules for the build site. 

Volumetric modular construction is a type of prefabricated building. Still, not all prefabricated buildings are volumetric modular constructions because some require more than just piecing together complete modules at the build site. 

In this article, you’ll learn the benefits and challenges of volumetric modular construction and transporting. We will also explain what special shipping logistics to consider with these projects so you can be ready for what lies ahead including your modular transport company and carrier type.

The Pros of Volumetric Modular Construction

There are a few different types of modular construction, but volumetric modular construction is undoubtedly the most complete when it comes from the factory. The other types include:

• Partially open-sided modules
• Open-sided modules
• Stair modules
• Mixed module and prefab panels

The pros of modular construction  positively correlate with the more complete types of modular construction, meaning the more finished the components, the more advantages. 

Pro #1: Reduced Construction Schedule 

With volumetric modular construction, onsite construction is efficient and quick. Because almost all construction happens off site, construction schedules can be specific and shorter — and there is less risk of delay or domino-effect mishap.

The industry average is that volumetric modular construction delivery, transport, and installs take about half the time as traditional construction.

Pro #2: Increased Quality and Consistency

Because volumetric modular construction is done in controlled factory settings — and is often highly automated — the result is a higher quality and more consistent product. With traditional construction, each part of the building’s construction relies on the team that builds it step-by-step on site. This leaves room for error, as even inclement weather can impact each stage’s quality and completion time.

With volumetric modular construction, you’ll know exactly what you’re going to get every single time.

Pro #3: Construction Budget Control

With traditional construction, different teams and specialists complete specific parts of the project. This makes for a lot to manage — and a higher chance for error and budget overages. 

Delays have a domino effect down the line, which can mean wasted labor costs; unexpected price increases or time and shipping delays; and expensive changes to plans, transportation, or deliveries. With volumetric modular construction, cost predictions are more accurate, resulting in happier clients and better overall project management success. 

Pro #4: Environmentally Friendly

Modular construction is good for the environment and not just in a “green” way. Yes, this type of construction creates less material waste. Yes, it’s also typically more energy-efficient. But it’s also better for the immediate surrounding environment in terms of noise and air pollution. Because construction is primarily off site, neighbors won’t have to deal with a prolonged construction timeline filled with noise, dust, traffic, and constant deliveries taking up valuable street space and driveways. 

Pro #5: Stronger Buildings

Extreme weather data has shown that volumetric modular buildings are stronger than their traditional counterparts. This makes sense since they are built for transport and must be strong as individual units and together as a whole on site. 

The Challenges of Volumetric Modular Construction

Although the positives are clear, it’s essential to consider the potential challenges that arise with this specific kind of construction. Knowing this ahead of time allows you to prepare for and prevent issues from arising during the project.

Challenge #1: Limited Flexibility After Design Stage

Once the project designs and plans are final, it can be challenging and costly to make mid-project changes. Although you can customize volumetric modular construction in its initial design stage, ensure you communicate all necessary features and changes before the design is “locked” and production is underway. 

Challenge #2: Short and Long-Term Considerations

In the short term, construction firms and contractors, land costs and restrictions, ongoing mortgage agreements, and insurance requirements may differ with volumetric modular construction. In the long-term, certain buyers may perceive the building’s value as less if they still have the outdated view of modular buildings being of lesser quality or permanence. This viewpoint is quickly changing as the volumetric modular construction industry shows better quality, reliability, and consistency than traditional buildings. 

Challenge #3: Logistics Planning and Transporting Modular Construction Buildings

Volumetric modular construction requires the movement and transport of very large, bulky units that can raise serious problems if you do not properly plan the logistics. You must survey and prepare the site for the delivery from the transport and logistics company and movement of these oversized loads and deliveries. 

At Stream Modular, we do a site survey to troubleshoot any obstacles before they become serious problems for transport. With this type of construction, shipping timing is everything. Once a unit is complete, the transport or logistics company must pick it up to avoid congestion at the factory and deliver it just in time for installation on site so the unit’s storage doesn’t become an issue. At Stream Modular, our transit buffer allows us to smooth out this process on both ends to avoid costly transportation delays. 

If you’d like to learn more about how Stream Modular’s logistics team can help make transportation on your next volumetric modular construction project a success, reach out! We’d love to hear from you. 

Stream Modular is a transportation logistics company specializing exclusively in modular construction. We help modular manufacturers and builders transport mods, pods and panels so they arrive on time and safely to the build site.

Read more:

• 3 Unexpected Uses for Offsite Modular Construction
• 5 Industries That Can Use Prefabricated Modular Construction to Fuel Growth
• The Case for Modular: 4 Projects that Highlight How Modular is Evolving Globally