How does prefabricated construction differ from modular construction?

Modular and prefabricated construction are very similar technologies, although there are some differences. What are the characteristics of each solution and in which situations do they work? Find the answers to these questions in our article!

What is prefabricated construction?

Despite appearances, prefabricated buildings are nothing new. In the 1960s and 1970s, blocks of flats and high-rise buildings were erected from prefabricated elements. Unfortunately, the technologies used in communist Poland did not enjoy a good reputation. Nowadays, however, much has changed in this respect - materials have improved and standardised regulations, guidelines and norms have been introduced. As a result, the buildings which are now being commissioned are not inferior to those constructed in the traditional manner - they are functional and meet health and safety and fire protection standards. In addition, they are distinguished by their economical operation and high durability.

So what is prefabricated construction? This technology involves erecting buildings from prefabricated components manufactured in a factory. The components are made on the basis of a supplied design - they are immediately adapted for direct assembly on the project site. Prefabricated components include, for example, prefabricated walls with openings for windows and doors, ceilings or partition walls.

In prefabricated construction, most of the work takes place on the shop floor. Components are manufactured under strictly defined conditions, so that the elements are characterised by repeatability and high precision. The entire process is subject to constant checks and the work is carried out according to established procedures. This avoids the execution errors that often occur with traditional construction technologies.
Prefabricated vs modular construction - key differences

Modular and prefabricated construction are terms that are often used interchangeably. In both cases, most of the work is carried out in a production facility, which significantly reduces the time required to put a building into use. In addition, there is no need to wait for a building permit to be issued, as the creation of components can be started at the stage of completing the formalities. However, there are some features that differentiate prefabricated and modular construction.
Mounting
The finishing work for the modular buildings is carried out on site. The finished elements are fitted with the necessary installations, elevations and finishes. Complete and fit-for-purpose segments are delivered to the project site. In the case of prefabricated construction, semi-finished products are delivered to the construction site, including panels with openings for windows, which are only joined together on the site designated by the developer.
Building completion date

Both solutions are distinguished by their fast lead times. It is worth noting, however, that the modules do not require any additional work on site, as they are transported as finished interiors. Once the modules are assembled and the connection points are sealed, the building can be put into use. At the same time, during the production of the modules at the production plant, earthworks and foundation work are carried out on the investor's plot, which significantly shortens the schedule of the entire construction. Prefabricated buildings, on the other hand, although also erected from pre-manufactured components, are only finished after assembly and bonding on site. This translates into lead times, which are correspondingly longer for prefabricated construction.
Possibility of moving the facility to another location

The design of the foundations for modular buildings allows them to be both permanently tied to the ground and, if necessary, moved to another location. The modules can be dismantled and transported to another location. This will therefore be a good solution for, among others, seasonal business owners, operators of larger projects requiring facilities, who may change the address of their business or their investments at a certain time. This is an important difference between prefabricated and modular construction - in the first case, the building remains permanently attached to the ground.
Shape and appearance of the building

Prefabricated construction is somewhat more flexible and therefore suitable for buildings with more complex layouts. Prefabricated buildings are characterised by their simple, regular shape, but they offer practically unlimited possibilities for building extensions, additions and extensions to existing buildings. This also applies to traditional brick buildings, which can be adapted architecturally to blend in with their surroundings.
When is it worth betting on prefabricated construction?
Prefabricated construction offers more possibilities when it comes to tailoring the design to individual preferences. Among other things, it allows buildings with a sloping roof, although this often involves additional calculations and requires the help of an adaptive architect. This solution can be recommended to private investors, who want to obtain the original shape of the building. The technology also works well for owners of commercial or public buildings - thanks to prefabrication, they can gain new, functional space in a relatively short time.
When is it worth opting for modular solutions?

Above all, modular construction reduces construction time - 90% of the structure is built inside the factory, reducing the risk of delays due to adverse weather conditions. Modular buildings are built to meet the same building regulations and standards as site-built structures. In addition, modular building projects use the same materials specified by the architect that are used in conventionally built buildings - steel, concrete and timber. Made off-site, they allow for better construction quality management. Once assembled, the modules are virtually indistinguishable from their site-built counterparts. Therefore, they are an excellent alternative for any builder's project and concept.