SMM offers discounted previously leased modular buildings for a quick and affordable solution. If buying a portable building outright at this time isn’t feasible, the solution could be renting a portable building. With renting, you have the opportunity of finding an affordable modular building that fits your needs and budget. Renting quality portable buildings can be a wise choice for business owners, contractors, homeowners and municipalities.
Sustainable Modular Stories
Modular Construction FAQs
Do you have an upcoming construction project? Are you unsure if modular construction can meet your needs? We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help clarify any misunderstandings or questions you may have about modular construction, the process, materials and more.
What is modular construction?
Modular construction, as opposed to conventional, stick-built construction, takes place in a factory setting where modules, or the building blocks of a structure, are fabricated. Modular construction is an overall more sustainable way to build and is conducive to cost and time savings.
Are there different types of modular construction?
Yes, there are two different types of modular structures. You can choose from permanent modular construction, or temporary modular construction which is intended to be relocated and reused.
What materials are used to construct modular buildings?
Modular construction is made out of the same sturdy materials as conventional construction like wood, steel and concrete. You can read more about building materials in our blog, Modular Construction: What’s it Made Of?.
Are modular buildings customizable?
Yes, you can customize most everything about your modular building including the floor plan, exterior finishes and other aesthetics.
Is modular construction considered a turnkey solution?
Yes, modular construction delivers turnkey solutions. We work with you to design your building and help manage the entire project, overseeing it through completion. Your construction will be ready for occupation upon the completion of module delivery and installation.
How do you install a modular building?
After the modules of your building are transported from the factory and delivered to your construction site, they are positioned onto a pier support system. Depending on the scale of your building, installation times may vary.
Can I rent a modular building?
Yes, you can rent a modular building. You can browse our previously leased buildings for rent here.
Do you have financing options?
Yes, we offer a range of financing options. Whether you intend to outright purchase your structure or lease it, we will work with you to establish terms that are most beneficial.
How long does it take to complete modular construction?
Construction timelines vary from project to project, but overall there is always considerable time savings when building modular because your site work and building fabrication happen simultaneously.
Will modular construction save me money?
Modular construction is a cost-effective way to build due to faster build times and indoor fabrication. The controlled fabrication environment mitigates weather delays, theft and overall construction waste.
If you still have questions or would like a quote for your project, contact us today for more information!
June 11, 2018
3 Ways Modular Construction is Sustainable
Want an environmentally-friendly building that is sustainably constructed, takes less time to build, and can save you money? Then look no further than modular construction. Modular construction is an overall greener mode of construction, from the fabrication process to the structure itself. Here’s how.
Efficient Fabrication Process
To reduce harmful pollutants, disturbances to the environment, and heavy traffic that is typically associated with construction, modular construction is manufactured indoors in a factory setting. This off-site building practice results in overall efficiency and helps contain debris and contaminants. The controlled building environment also reduces waste by preventing theft and damage to building materials.
Eco-friendly Modules
Modules, the building blocks of modular construction, can be made from recyclable materials, but they themselves are also “recyclable” units because they are intended to be assembled, disassembled, relocated and reused.
Reusable Buildings
Modular buildings are inherently recyclable because they are designed to be portable. They can be easily transported to different locations for reuse and are built to withstand multiple uses. For temporary needs such as mobile offices or additional classroom space, modular buildings can also be leased time and time again.
Want to learn more about how we build energy-efficient and sustainable construction? Contact SMM today!
May 21, 2018
The Design Process of Modular Construction
During the design phase of the modular construction process, your structure will start to take shape. You’ll work with your modular construction provider to make crucial design decisions that range from the dimensions of different rooms to the exterior finishes. To help make sure you’ve got all of your bases covered, we’ve listed out the important questions and considerations that you should be sure to go over with your modular construction provider.
First and foremost, review your project budget and timeline, and discuss whether your building is intended for temporary or permanent use. This will determine what type of foundation your structure will require and inform what kinds of materials will be used to construct the modules.
To ensure you and your modular construction provider are developing a building solution that is comprehensive and unique to your needs, discuss the purpose of your building and who will be occupying the space. Your modular construction provider will be better able to consult you and suggest building features such as open spaces for cubicles, or classrooms with lab stations, depending on your needs.
Other design considerations:
- What kind of landscaping or cement work will you need?
- What building codes need to be met?
- What types of spaces and/or rooms do you need, i.e. bathrooms, hallways, closets or storage rooms?
- How many floors is your building? Will you need an elevator, stairwells?
- What should the exterior finishes look like such as type of siding, roof, covered walkways, etc.?
- Do you need handicap accessible entry points?
- What type of utility hookups do you need and where?
Keep in mind, modular construction is a fully customizable building solution and your modular construction provider is here to help you create a building that suits your exact needs. They should help you envision your building and make sure you’re satisfied before fabrication begins.
Have questions about how SMM can assist you during the design process of your modular project? Contact us today!
May 17, 2018
5 Ways Modular Construction Saves You Money
In the world of construction, things can get a little unwieldy. There are a lot of moving parts (literally) and it only takes one wrong measurement or misstep to result in one huge setback. And while you can take certain measures to prevent mistakes from happening, you’re better off preparing for the unknown and factoring in time and money for those unpredictable predicaments.
Modular construction is an alternative mode of construction that involves offsite, indoor construction and simultaneous site work that helps mitigate those unforeseen, expensive problems. While not completely foolproof, modular construction is a more streamlined process that eliminates certain risks associated with traditional, stick built construction. Here’s a look at how modular construction can save you time and ultimately, money.
No Weather Delays
Modules, the building blocks of modular construction, are manufactured indoors in a factory setting. There’s no need to account for weather delays or damage caused by inclement conditions which often results in botched construction timelines.
Reduced Theft
Raw materials and equipment are stored and monitored in a controlled environment which prevents construction site theft.
Less Site Clean Up
Modular construction produces less on-site waste meaning you don’t have to dedicate time or labor to clean up your construction site.
Faster Build Times
Indoor manufacturing is inherently more time efficient because it utilizes an assembly line approach. Additionally, module fabrication can take place at the same time as your site work and foundation work, cutting your timeline nearly in half.
Shorter Financing Period
An overall shorter construction timeline reduces the amount of interest you will accrue during that time.
From reduced weather delays to shorter financing periods, modular construction offers a wealth of benefits that makes it an overall more cost effective way to build. Ready to get started on your modular project today? Contact us today for a quote and more information!
April 30, 2018
Building Installation and Site Completion Checklist
Now that you’ve taken the necessary steps to develop your construction site, you can start preparing for the installation and occupation of your modular building. Here’s a checklist of the remaining site work you need to do before you can call the project a wrap.
Delivery
While you developed your construction site, your modular building was being manufactured off site. Once completed, the modules will be transported and delivered to your construction site where they will be positioned onto the pier support system. The delivery and installation process may vary slightly from project to project depending on scale.
Utilities
Any utilities that have been previously installed should be tested to ensure they are working properly.
Grading and Flatwork
Final grading should take place for any remaining flatwork that needs to be installed such as sidewalks, driveways and parking lots.
Interior and Exterior Finishes
The finishes of your project will depend on the use of your modular building and may include things like trim, siding, paint, handicap access points, elevators, stairs, alarm systems, and more.
Landscaping
With your building set on its foundation and flatwork completed, you can restore the construction site, remove debris, plant shrubbery and trees, or lay down sod.
Keep in mind, some or all of the site work that takes place during and after building installation may require additional help from local subcontractors to get the job done. Talk to your construction provider to determine if they provide comprehensive services or if you’ll need to contract out certain jobs.
Contact SMM today to learn about our services and how we make modular construction a seamless process!
April 26, 2018
Developing a Construction Site
With a construction site confirmed and the green light to begin building your modular structure, you can start preparing the site for building delivery and installation. This stage of modular construction significantly reduces your construction timeline because building fabrication takes place at the same time as site development, unlike stick built construction. Below is a list of the steps involved in construction site preparation.
Demolition
Demolish any existing infrastructure, cut down trees, and remove debris. In the event you are removing hazardous material from your construction site, make sure you’ve secured the necessary permits beforehand.
Site Surveyance
After the site has been cleared, a surveyor should stake out the construction site and make note of the land’s terrain and other distinct features that may affect construction. Site surveyance physically marks the boundaries of where the building will be installed.
Grading and Excavation
Grade the construction site to remove any extraneous materials and prepare the earth for construction, be that the building foundation, a driveway or a parking lot.
Foundation Construction
With the site properly surveyed, cleared, and graded, you can build or install the pier support system for your modular structure. If required for the project, below the ground concrete footers can be installed. Piers can then be installed at each footer location.
Utilities
Lastly, establish utility connections such as water, electric and gas.
Upon the completion of site development and preparation, your construction site is now ready for the delivery and installation of your modular building!
April 24, 2018
Is the Future of Education Modular?
After 10 years in the modular industry, we’ve come to understand the unique building and space challenges of different sectors. We’ve worked on countless projects and provided our clients and their communities with innovative solutions, always in a timely and budget-friendly fashion. That’s why it comes to no surprise to us that modular buildings are popping up everywhere, as hospitals, offices, retail spaces and even schools.
School districts often approach us when they are facing a fluctuation in their student population. They need more space and they need it fast, preferably with little disturbance to their school grounds. Even in the summer months, they can’t afford turning their school campus into a construction site because there are always sporting events, extracurricular activities and summer classes taking place.
Educational institutions are beginning to favor modular construction because it doesn’t disrupt the learning environment. Modular structures are manufactured off-site which reduces distractions caused by extraneous noise, hazardous conditions, and debris. Off-site construction allows for class to remain in session all while a turn-key solution is underway.
Modular construction is designed to meet your unique needs which means you have a lot of options and flexibility. If you want to match your existing school campus, you can work with your modular provider to customize the exterior and interior finishes so the construction remains consistent with your current infrastructure. To create a functional learning environment, you can also ask to incorporate energy efficient utilities, handicap access points, restrooms, and hallways in your building plans.
The flexibility of modular construction doesn’t end with the design, you also have options when it comes to owning or leasing a building. If you need additional classroom space, but only temporarily, you can lease a modular building. With leasing, you don’t have to commit to an entire new wing, however, you do have the option to lease to own your building upfront. In the case that your lease is due to expire but you need to extend it, you can work with your modular construction provider to rework the terms of your lease agreement.
Even if you need a permanent addition to your campus, you shouldn’t necessarily default to traditional construction that takes place on site. Remember, modular construction can produce the same, if not better, structure as stick-built but in less time and with minimal disturbance to your school grounds.
From classrooms to administrative offices or even entire school campuses, modular construction provides school districts with an economical way to increase space when time is of the essence.
Ready to go modular? Browse our previously leased buildings to see if we have already have a solution for you or contact us to get a quote!
March 26, 2018
Permanent vs. Temporary Modular Buildings
Modular construction offers a wealth of benefits ranging from cost efficiency to durability. A number of different industries utilize this alternative to traditional construction, because as you’ll learn, it’s built to fit your needs. One of the key differences between modular construction and traditional, stick built construction is that modular structures are designed to be assembled, disassembled, relocated and reused. Modular buildings can also serve as permanent solutions, installed on concrete foundations, intended to last.
If you are considering modular construction for an upcoming project, the first thing you should determine is what type of structure, temporary or permanent, will best suit your needs. Here, we break down the main differences of each to help you figure out which option is right for you.
Permanent Building
Whether you opt for a permanent building or a temporary one, you are guaranteed to reap the sustainable and efficient benefits of modular construction. Both types of structures have similar construction phases that take place off site in a factory setting, and similar to temporary buildings, your permanent structure is made up of modules. Upon completion, these building blocks are transported to your construction site, and once delivered, they will be installed either on a concrete foundation, CMU piers, or on a permanent foundation set at grade.
Permanent construction is typically utilized for commercial purposes or to expand on an existing structure like a school or hospital. If the aesthetic of your building is paramount, we highly recommend permanent buildings. With a permanent structure, you have more design liberties outside of your floor plan, such as interior and exterior finishes.
Temporary Building
If you needed a new building say, yesterday, a temporary solution is the way to go. In the case of an emergency such as a natural disaster, temporary buildings are a quick and affordable way to provide relief to affected areas in the shape of temporary food banks or medical care.
Temporary buildings have other uses beyond emergency situations and provide the end user with great flexibility. For one, you can lease a temporary building if your needs are short-term, and temporary structures can also be relocated with ease. Do keep in mind that your design options are a little more limited with temporary structures. However, often times construction providers have existing buildings available for lease providing you with quicker and more cost effective options.
Regardless of which structure you need, modular construction always produces high-quality, cost-effective buildings in less time than traditional construction. In other words, you simply can’t go wrong!
Have a better idea of which type of structure you need now? Contact us today to get your project started!
March 19, 2018
Announcing New SMM Office Openings!
At SMM, we’re committed to delivering outstanding modular construction services to our customers. In an ongoing effort to bring you a seamless modular construction experience with full support and industry expertise, we’re proud to announce the opening of two new offices located in Greenwood Village, Colorado and Cincinnati, Ohio.
The Colorado office will service the Western United States and will be headed up by our West Region Sales Manager, David Farris. He is a Colorado native with over 20 years of experience in the modular industry.
The Ohio office will service the Northeastern United States and will be headed up by our Northeast Region Sales Manager, Danita Gipson. She has 27 years of experience in the modular construction industry.
Our physical presence in these regions will help improve our ability to fully meet your needs and support you throughout your modular project.
We look forward to working with you!
You can now find us at:
Western US Regional Office
6312 Fiddlers Green Circle Ste. 300E
Greenwood Village, CO 80111
David Farris
West Region Sales Manager
Office: 720-550-4383
Mobile: 817-846-8025
Corporate: 972-619-7300
dfarris@sustainablemodular.com
Northeast US Regional OfficeDanita Gipson
Northeast Region Sales Manager
Office: 513-873-4259
Mobile: 513-430-5171
Corporate: 972-619-7300
dgipson@sustainablemodular.com
March 5, 2018
Three Reasons Why Healthcare Should Build Modular
As people look for time and cost effective building solutions, more and more are turning to modular construction. From commercial buildings to the government offices, modular buildings are fulfilling the varied needs of multiple sectors. School districts with spikes in student population seek modular construction to add onto their existing campuses, while the military uses modular barracks and administrative offices. With unlimited design possibilities, time savings and efficiency, it’s no wonder the healthcare industry has hopped on the modular construction train, too. Here’s why.
Reduced Disruptions
The modules, or building blocks, used in modular construction are manufactured off-site in a factory setting. This greatly minimizes facility disturbances commonly associated with construction. A facility in need of additional space can keep their doors open during construction and they don’t have to deal with the debris, noise, or traffic created by traditional, on-site construction. Minimal site work is required to prepare for the installation of the modules which allows the facility to deliver patient care as usual.
Time Savings
In the case that a hospital requires more space with not much time to spare, modular construction allows for rapid turnaround. Once again, indoor manufacturing reduces the burdens associated with traditional construction. Build times are significantly shorter as you don’t have to account for weather delays, and overall, factory controlled construction is more efficient.
Custom Finishes
Modular construction is often overlooked due to the misconception that modular buildings come standard, when in fact, modular construction is conducive to custom design. Healthcare buildings are no exception, and modular construction can produce medical facilities outfitted with the necessary equipment and utilities. From patient rooms to labs, you can work with your modular construction provider to select the correct finishes for both the interior and exterior of your building.
With the option to rent cost-effective prefabricated buildings or custom design new construction, it’s no surprise that the future of the healthcare industry is trending towards modular hospitals, clinics and other medical facilities.
To see SMM’s work in the healthcare industry, browse our case studies here.
February 27, 2018