The chances are likely that you’ve seen a modular building at some point in your life. However, you may not have known what to call it, exactly. Modular buildings are often referred to as “portables” or “pods” for short. They can be used as temporary substitutes as a permanent structure is constructed, or as permanent buildings themselves. Modular buildings have often been used as classrooms and church buildings. They can also be used as expansions for large buildings — again, this is often a temporary fix, as modular buildings are usually meant to act like small, single-room spaces. In the past, there’s been confusion about how modular buildings really work, and for that matter how they stand up to issues like storms. Many are interested in these types of buildings — sometimes referred to as portable cabins — but are confused about how to go about getting them. Should they be rented or bought? Well, that question can be answered easily. Modular buildings for sale are better deals than those for rent, simply because they could easily become permanent solutions, or at the very least semi-permanent solutions for those working with lengthy construction projects. For that matter, they’re cost-effective and easy to construct. Below, we’ll demystify some of the questions surrounding modular buildings.
How Are Modular Buildings Created?
Portable buildings like these are not like mobile homes — for one thing, while they are mobile they tend to require a bit more effort to move, simply because they’re more complex. This is a good thing, however — you also get to do more with them, which is great for churches and schools. It’s estimated that about 60% to 90% of permanent modular buildings are built in a factory setting. However, they may be shipped to the place upon which they’re going to stay, and constructed there. This makes the process much easier on both the builder and the buyer. There tends to be an earlier occupancy and better cash flow with these buildings, and they see a 50% decrease in design and construction time. This is able to bring their prices down as well. In fact, the construction time of some modular buildings can be just one to two weeks. Obviously, all of this depends on the type of building being ordered, but all in all this means that you’ll be able to order these types of buildings on a much shorter notice.
What Are Modular Buildings Like?
The type of building you order can be discussed between you and the manufacturer — what size are you looking for? What are your specific needs? However, there are some bare basics that all of these buildings have in common. For one thing, while they are compact that are also comfortable. You won’t have your classes or services interrupted by any swaying with the wind — these buildings can be expected to withstand winds of up to 175 miles per hour. This means that they are very safe, and can also be built with issues like dampness in mind. Once a building is completed the way it needs to be, you shouldn’t expect that big of a difference between the building and a permanent construction. However, when the building is first constructed things like electrical, plumbing, and duct work will not be taken into account. With that being said, the final cost may be up to 20% more than the builder’s quote. Still, these buildings are clearly more cost-effective than alternatives.
How Much Can You Save By Using Modular Buildings?
According to buyers, the main reasons why they chose modular buildings was speed of delivery at 35%, followed by shifting enrollments at 26%, and relative lack of expense at 25%. These do cost much less than alternatives — in terms of classrooms, they are often 36% to 77% less than on-site classroom additions. As such, you should consider the possibility of choosing a modular building over a typical on-site addition.
