Construction is a multifaceted and complex process, from covering the procurement of materials and projects to preparing the site of construction and then constructing the building itself. There is more than just a plan in construction; there is a lot of organisation and energy consumption involved. With the growing population and environmental concerns, the real estate sector is looking for methods to make a building lifecycle a more economical and sustainable process. There were many advancements towards a sustainable built environment, but prefabrication construction is gaining a lot of popularity.
What is Prefabrication in Construction?
Prefabrication is a process where various parts of buildings are pre-built or fabricated in a different location from the building site. These parts are then transferred to the final location where they’re set up.
In conventional construction, the materials of a building are transported to the construction site and then constructed there. In the prefabrication construction, only the foundation is built on site, and the rest of the sections are preconstructed offsite and then transported to the site.
For example, civil engineering projects like dams and bridges are preconstructed and then delivered to the building site. The bridges are made of steel frameworks of up to 37 m. So these are constructed offsite often and then transported to the location.
Prefabrication vs Modular and Offsite Construction
Prefabricated is not the same as offsite construction, but are mostly confused. Offsite construction is broader than prefabrication. It refers to the complete process of construction, from design and planning to fabrication. This is performed offsite and then delivered as a complete project to the location. Prefabricated construction technology and techniques focus on specific elements of the manufacture and assembly of parts.
Prefabrication is also slightly different from modular contractions as well. Modular buildings focus on the modular unit creation and repeated sections and the designs. Prefabrication in architecture is quite feasible for architects to create complex building structures. It would be easier to work on complex structures becuase of its prefabricated sections.
5 Benefits of Prefabrication Construction
1. Cost-efficiency and Faster Built Time
Prefabrication can be faster than conventional construction methods. The components were already built when they were shifted; only they need to be put together. Constructing modular buildings is also faster; with construction projects, completion is faster than the traditional one.
It is also cost-effective to get prefabricated structures, as transporting partial assemblies and components from a professional factory environment is cheaper than moving the raw materials and resources to the site of construction.
2. Sustainability and Reduced Pollution
When an onsite construction happens, the chances of noise, air, and land pollution are very high for the surrounding areas. Also, traffic disruption is likely to happen when the material and components are moving to the conventional site.
Further, it produces a lot of waste to cover, which affects the environment badly. A lot of waste ends up in landfills, which can be prevented by prefabrication construction.
3. Good Durability and Quality
When the materials are constructed at factories rather than on the construction site, it adds a layer of quality assurance. Indoor factories are more protected from weather hazards, which protect the materials and ensure good quality. It is easier to check the quality of the individual materials in the factories before they are dispatched.
Also, the prefabricated materials are stronger than the raw materials in traditional construction and are built to endure long-distance travelling.
4. Less Safety and Health Risks
Along with protecting the prefabricated materials from reduced delays and bad weather, these materials can help reduce safety and health risks. As components can be built in concentrated environments and also away from the busyness of the regular construction site.
5. Labour Shortage and Improved Security
The prefabricated components and materials off-site allow for small staff requirements. This will help you to save on labour costs, and you will also have fewer construction site managers.
Moreover, when the construction site is open, there are chances for potential theft. Such onsite construction sites are not protected enough as compared to the factories and attract more thieves. Prefabrication material will help you to get the materials safe and sound to the site.
No modern construction method is perfect and is not ideal for every type of construction. Similarly, there are some limitations as well of prefabrication, which you should know before taking any decision.
Limitations of Prefabrication
While prefabrication can offer a good amount of benefits, it may not be suitable for every project of construction. There are many potential drawbacks as well, such as:
Transportation Issue: Transporting the prefabricated components can have several logistical obstacles. It depends on the size of the components, height restrictions, traffic, and the maximum road width in the country.
It can be a challenge to shift your material safe and sound to the site. This challenge sometimes can outweigh the benefits of having the materials prefabricated. Especially when the transportation costs become higher.
Close cooperation with partners: It is crucial to have continuous coordination and close communication to avoid errors and mistakes in the production and execution of the idea.
Lastly,
When there are many sustainable alternations and innovations emerging in the market, prefabrication is not a fix-all type of solution. However, if you are able to make it happen for your building project, then it can offer a significant amount of benefits. However, you have to ensure transportation is feasible. Also, ensure you are in close communication with your partner to ensure all the things beforehand. If you want a trusted company that can complete your project with exceptional quality, then Union Developers is the best. From architectural planning to construction of your building, we cover all. We have satisfied a good amount of clients and continue to create the difference.
