CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY TRENDS: PREFABRICATION

The construction industry has seen some dramatic changes over the last 12 months. One of these changes is the growth in the prefabricated building system. It is predicted that this sector of the construction industry will increase by at least 8% during the period 2019-2025, but this growth does not come without its challenges, like weak joints and poor thermal insulation.

What is prefabrication in construction?

Prefabrication is when building components are created offsite, in a factory or workshop. The components are then transported and assembled onsite. This obviously makes the process of construction easier and quicker than more traditional methods.

What is driving the growth?

These are a few of the main factors that are currently driving the growth of prefabricated construction.

1. Mass Township Projects.
2. A shift in focus from profit to people and planet. 
3. An increased demand for branded designers. 
4. The increase in the demand for construction in remote locations. 
5. An increase in the need for medical facilities quickly.
6. Growing opportunities in developing countries. 
7. An increase in the need for quicker turnaround times.

Why is prefabrication a preferred method of construction?

1. It can solve the skilled labor shortage. The younger generation do not want to enter the construction industry, which means there is often a shortage of skills in the industry. But prefabrication allows companies to hire dedicated teams to build the more modular buildings. 
2. Prefabrication costs less and takes less time. Researchers have found that off-site construction can reduce the cost of construction by up to 20%. Not only does it reduce costs, but it will also take less time to construct. This means that this is a viable option for those who are looking for a more money efficient options. 
3. Prefabrications can be customized. Modular prefabrication centers can be completely customized to create bespoke buildings that meet the unique needs of the customer. In a changing world, this is really one of the biggest advantages of prefabrication. 
4. They are easy to secure. Due to the fact that prefabrication are completely customizable means that it is easier to create spaces that are secured properly and correctly.
5. It is kinder to the environment. Construction waste is a real industry concern. It is expected that the amount of waste produced by the construction industry will double by 2.2 billion tons. Off-site construction goes a long way to reducing the waste that is produced by the industry. This reduction in waste means that as a company, you will reduce your environmental footprint.

When is prefabricated construction recommended?

1. When you are on a restricted budget.
2. If you need construction done quickly, on a tight deadline.
3. If you are construction a property in a remote location.
4. If you do not want disruptions to existing operations.
5. If you are looking for a customizable solution.
6. If you are looking to incorporate the latest technology into your business.
7. If you are looking for a green option that will reduce your company’s carbon footprint.