Modern Methods Of Construction MMC

Offsite Construction

1. Volumetric modular build

Modern methods of construction MMC as a volumetric modular build are generally manufactured offsite construction processed, 95% finished including, kitchens, bathrooms, tiling, flooring, plumbing , electrics, plastered, decorated with roofs finished. These modules are then generally transported to site and placed onto the completed foundations supplied by the developer in a day and then stitched up complete and ready to move into in approximately seven days.

Offsite Construction MMC

Volumetric Construction

What are the advantages of Volumetric construction modular build?

Offsite construction MMC time onsite using volumetric construction modular builds are reduced significantly as 95% of the build is manufactured off site in a factory controlled environment meaning a better quality product being produced, there is less tradesmen to manage onsite, less waste is also produced creating a more green and friendly product together with less health and safety issues to deal with.

Volumetric Construction

What are the disadvantages of using volumetric construction modular builds?

The cost of volumetric construction modular builds are more expensive at present than traditional builds so unless you are building in an area where my opinion is £200 per sq ft then volumetric modular build will not be financially viable for private developers. Until we see more manufacturers competing in this space to make competition healthy and reduce costs then I believe this trend will continue for 5-10 years for certain parts of the UK especially the north where resale values are far less than the south.

Hybrid Modular Construction

Offsite MMC

2. Hybrid Modular builds

If it is not financially viable to use a volumetric modular build system then I would highly recommend using a Hybrid modular build system. The main super structure for the hybrid modular build system will be manufactures offsite in a factory controlled environment for light gauge steel and timber SIP (structural insulated panels). These panel kits when manufactured are then brought to site and erected to a water tight finish for a detached property in 3-7 days dependant on which manufacturer and or contractor is used.

Hybrid Modular Construction

Offsite Construction MMC

What are the advantages of using a Hybrid Modular construction build system?

When using a Hybrid modular construction build system the super structure is erected using offsite construction MMC to a water tight finish in 3-7 days which is quicker than a traditional build. Once the super structure is water tight it allows you to start on both the external cladding that could be stone, brick, slip brick, timber or a rendered finish whilst starting the internal batoning of walls, building stud walls, first fix electrical, plumbing even insulation and plaster boarding. Once the external cladding, windows, doors and roof are completed then it should be time to start plastering the insides and getting ready for the joinery work and internal fit outs. The completed units can take 9 – 12 weeks to complete from the finished foundations ready to move into which is again quicker than a traditional build.

Offsite Modular Construction MMC

Hybrid Modular Construction

What are the disadvantages of using a Hybrid Modular Construction build system?

Compared to a traditional build I do not believe there is any real disadvantages of Offsite modular construction MMC using a hybrid modular construction build system as once water tight it can be completed in all weathers, takes less time to build and it would cost less for development finance costs.