Modular Homes: Consumers Can Take Advantage of off-Season Construction Costs

Boston, MA -- (SBWIRE) -- 11/15/2012 -- A cold Massachusetts winter is no reason to delay having your dream home built. Yes, even in the extreme temperatures a modular home can be constructed quickly and efficiently for you. There is no reason to wait until spring to build, and risk paying higher prices or interest rates. A modular home offers more benefits than just being able to purchase more home for your money, it offers the ability to build your home at any given time.

ModularHomesNetwork.com is focused on educating consumers on the advantages offered by Modular Housing. The revolution of the modular construction method means that consumers can have a better built, lower cost home option build in the climate controlled settings of a factory that is then delivered to a building site on the schedule that they need. No longer are they tied to the traditional seasonal cycle that leaves them hostage to the seasonal demand of regular contractor’s schedule. A modular home can be built year round and takes advantage of the off season costs that are likely lower.

Look at some of the facts

- Modular homes are constructed in an environmentally protected factory. There are no reasons for weather delays or for production to stop because of snow. The weather proof manufacturing process also ensures that your homes skeleton will remain free from any weather induced damage.

- Once your new home arrives to the site where it is to be constructed the final assembly can be performed at record speeds. Most of the work has already been completed; the home just needs to be secured. Being able to work at this fast of a pace, as opposed to building the home from the ground up, ensures that the home will become weather tight in a very quick time frame.

- Winter time is the off season and this could result in additional savings to you. It is already a common fact that you will be able to purchase a larger home with more amenities when you buy a modular home. On average a modular home can cost almost 30% less than a stick built home, a considerable savings. With the winter slow down, and builders hurting for business, you will be able to negotiate larger deals or take advantage of specials they may be offering.

Modular homes are not mobile homes. They do not have wheels, they cannot be moved once secured to the site and they do not fall apart when the first wind comes through. What modular homes do offer is a great way to build your own home in an economically fashion and in the manner you desire. It provides you a way to build, even during inclement weather when all other construction has stopped, and it allows you to be the deciding factor as to when you want to move. With interest rates so incredibly low, and the slow season approaching for builders, no one should pass this opportunity of a lifetime.

Consumers in Texas, California, Louisiana and Florida may have the luxury of not suffering through the winter season. But for the rest of us, whether it be Michigan, Connecticut, Minnesota, or any of cold New England, a modular constructed home may be the best solution. And after your new home is constructed, you can call your friends with your iPhone and sing the joys of your new home like a contestant on ‘The Voice’.

About Modular Homes
ModularHomesNetwork.com (http://www.modularhomesnetwork.com) is a leading expert on the Modular Homes Industry, offering consumer resources on plans, pricing and builder resources. We offer services throughout the U.S. with a goal to help our customers find the greatest value for their budget.

Source: Modular Homes Network

Benefits of Portable Office Buildings

When starting a business or expanding office space for a growing business, there are several options to choose from. Something to consider for your business are portable office buildings. There are many benefits of using these relocatable modular office buildings.

One benefit is the mobility of them. If there is any reason that you need to relocate, these portable office buildings can be moved to a new location. This will save you the trouble of having to sell the building you are in and trying to find and buy a new one at a new location.


Portable or temporary buildings can be built faster than other types of building construction. When you are looking to expand your business and need additional office space, it can be difficult to wait the many months it can take to construct a new building. Modular office buildings can be constructed, in some instances, in as little as just a couple of months.

Modular office buildings can also be as small or large as you need them to be. This helps to give you the flexibility to have an office building that fits your needs.

Starting or expanding your company often starts with needing office space. These portable office buildings are a great solution to that need.

Constructing Green Modular Buildings

There is a new movement that is taking hold in the world, and that movement is known as the going green movement. The going green movement stands for people trying to help the planet. They want to reduce the damage being done to the Earth and there are measurable benefits to it. 

One of the things being done is creating prefabricated buildings which come with many long-term environmentally friendly benefits.

The benefits of these buildings include:

Energy Efficiency And Sustainability

Many of the buildings being built have complete energy efficiency and sustainability. What that will mean for an occupant is that they will be spending less money in energy bills. On top of that, it also makes a positive contribution to the planet earth.

Bamboo and Recycled Carpet Flooring

Many people think bamboo is a type of wood, but it is actually a grass and a highly renewable resource. Bamboo can grow a couple inches in just a few days, which makes it a fantastic green resource. It looks amazing as hardwood flooring in green buildings.

Recycled carpet tiles are cost effective, durable and friendlier to the environment. They are also easy to replace when damaged or soiled as it only requires replacing the affected tiles as opposed to the entire carpet flooring. And because they are so renewable, bamboo and recycled carpet tiles can be purchased at a fraction of the cost. 

Prefabricated Buildings = Decreased Product Waste

Because a green modular building is going to be more efficient and will have the added benefit of decreased product waste, it will require less energy to operate. A pre-leased modular building will also reduce product waste and new construction helping to conserve the earth's natural resources. 

Green Modular Construction Is Cost Effective

Green modular construction has the benefit of increased energy efficiency through the use of highly efficient fixtures and better temperature insulation. This also reduces operating costs by lowing heating, air conditioning and electric bills.

Healthier Environment

Pre-fabricated buildings try to utilize as much natural light as possible. A building can be placed for optimal light, this will mean more light during the day and it will give the effect of a brighter and healthier environment.

A green modular building is going to have plenty of benefits. Occupants can help stop the massive amounts of damage being done to the Earth and know that they are making a difference if they purchase a green building or incorporate green fixtures.

World's Tallest Modular Building

A combination of mystical views and practical thinking has led to the creation of the world’s tallest modular building. Atlantic Yards in Brooklyn, New York, has been selected as the site where a 32-story, 348,000 sq. ft. modular apartment tower named “B2” will be built. There is no date selected yet for construction to begin, but the estimated time it will take to construct the finished product is rumored to be anywhere from 2 to 6 months from start to finish. One of the most incredible feats to be accomplished was successful negotiation with the unions on integrating a new concept into the modular building industry.

Engineers were able to use 3-dimensional computer models to incorporate lateral bracing within the structure to ensure the integrity of the project. Great care is being taken to allocate large areas to fireproofing materials that will protect the future residents. Soundproofing measures are factored into the construction and there is an overall sense of safety being a paramount issue. Given the hype surrounding the announcement of this project, future buildings of all types could be affected forever based on the success or failure of the B2 project. Touted as a complete city within one building this modular apartment tower can serve approximately 100,000 residents within its modular walls. The building will also give residents access to public spaces such as a fitness center, bike storage, a resident lounge, game room, yoga/dance studio and a roof terrace.

The advantages for embracing modular creations are enormous. Most of the construction takes place at an off-site factory allowing for better quality control. Traditionally built hotels and apartment buildings often have hidden flaws that have led to headline disasters. Weather conditions affect key components of a building constructed from the ground up; concrete may not settle correctly due to time factors. The speed at which a modular building can be built helps avoid many problems associated with traditional construction methods.

Large structures that are already in place can integrate any additions or expansions with the use of modular construction. The exterior finish on a modular addition can be adapted to match the existing structure so there is a seamless integration.

Modular construction also allows little disruption to the lives of current residents or guests. It is a huge enticement for companies needing to expand while maintaining current revenues without interruption because the majority of construction takes place off-site.

Upon completion, B2 will dwarf the current world’s tallest modular building, a 25 story-housing unit completed in Manchester, England in 1996. B2 will also gain the distinction of being the second tallest building in the world, behind the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, built with traditional construction.

America has a long history of prefab construction. From the “Lincoln Logs” cabins that could be ordered by catalog, to the barn raising traditions of 19th century, we have displayed an aptitude for creatively constructing parts of dwellings before fitting those parts together to complete the whole building. The future of building will be determined during the prefab construction of B2 as it is constructed module by module.

Schools Going Modular

With tight budgets and ever-expanding student populations, school districts are feeling the pressure to add as many new schools and classrooms as quickly as possible. School districts frequently have prefab schools built instead of building conventional schools for its significant time savings. For individual schools that have seen a massive increase in enrollment, adding modular classrooms is the choice of action to solve overcrowding.

In most cases, prefab schools or modular schools look almost entirely like conventional school buildings. They are easier to build with very quick completion times and are of the exact same quality as any traditional school building. A prefab building allows the client to customize it to suit unique needs. There are several exterior options to choose from such as brick or HardiePanel siding. Also modular classrooms can be designed to match the existing school and buildings can be conveniently placed on the existing schools campus.

Adding modular classrooms to a school also allows for an expansion in enrollment, especially if one is to be anticipated in the near future. Pre-leased modular classrooms can quickly be brought in whenever there is a need for a new building. If your school suddenly gains additional students, then a modular classroom can make sure that you don't end up short on capacity at the same time.

You should also be able to obtain your zoning permits while the school building is being manufactured at the factory. This will help you get your new school building constructed as quickly as possible. Once you have gotten the zoning permits, your school or modular building can be transported to the work-site for final finishes.

Open For Business with Modular Building

Many businesses struggle to find a cost-effective solution to their needs. Renting or buying space in a more traditional office building can be far too expensive to meet the budgetary needs of small businesses. For businesses who need a physical address, modular construction can be built within strict time frames  because both factory construction and site work can occur simultaneously.

One of the benefits of using a commercial modular building instead of a traditional office is it’s enhanced mobility. Certain industries rely on being able to move from location to location depending on what a specific job requires. The construction industry is a shining example of this. Commercial modular buildings can be used as mobile offices for temporary workspace. Used as mobile sales offices, modular buildings can be delivered wherever your next job may be. This temporary office can be rented for as long as necessary or bought outright in the event buying makes more financial sense than renting for an extended period of time.

For start-up retail businesses, a commercial modular building can double as an initial store location. Acting as a modular retail building, this option will allow a business owner to start generating revenue immediately. Decreasing the amount of overhead in a new business can be the deciding factor in whether or not the business succeeds or not. A modular retail building will ensure that start-up expenses are minimized while also helping to get a new business off the ground and running.

The benefits of using a commercial modular building instead of a traditional office building are many. Modular buildings can help a brand new business open its doors much faster than traditional construction. It can also be relocated if one location doesn't prove to be profitable. Before going the conventional route of renting or buying an office building, every business should take the time to investigate how a commercial modular building can help its bottom line.

Modular Healthcare

Modularbuildings are a perfect solution for modular clinics, a medical office building or numerous other health care applications. Modular buildings provide an efficient way to quickly offer your services to the public and to gain a quick return on investment. Available for use as both permanent construction or as portable buildings, modular buildings can be designed to fit the unique and varied needs of the healthcare industry. 

Modular buildings are ideal for dialysis clinics, outpatient clinics, dental offices, medical laboratories, medical imaging services, acute care facilities, diagnostic centers and other health care businesses. A modular medical office structure can house several practices in one building while accommodating the needs of each individual practice.

Modular buildings, whether portable or permanent, can be built to comply with all specifications necessary for any medical practice. They can be configured to include clean, quiet and safe patient treatment areas, space for storage of medical supplies and equipment, conference rooms, lobbies, administrative space, kitchens, open space for workstations and more.
Portable buildings are easily and quickly reconfigured to meet your needs. Modular buildings can also be relocated should your space needs change. 

Versatility and Convenience in Modular Buildings

The multifaceted conveniences of modular or prefabricated buildings make them the perfect choice for use as healthcare facilities or any size correctional institution. Modular construction is excellent for permanent or temporary uses. Adaptable design features allow for single story or multiple level buildings that can be a single unit or part of a large complex such as in multi-officecomplexes. Production of prefabricated buildings occurs off-site which reduces product waste and completion time since weather is not a factor.

Prefab construction allows for greater versatility when designing prison cells or detention areas in a correctional institution. A custom layout can be built that meets the requirements of each correctional center, no matter the size. For example the Redlands, CA Police Department had a modular building built to house their holding cells, interrogation rooms, evidence room and a fingerprint, photos and breathalyzer area.

Additionally, hallways, kitchens and reception areas within buildings can be positioned for optimal function for the staff at healthcare facilities and correctional institutions. The expedient nature of prefab construction makes modular buildings a convenient choice for new or expanding correctional institutes and health clinics. If the building needs to be moved after use, the mobility of modular construction makes transportation to a new site quick and easy.

Energy efficient and quiet design options are easily incorporated into prefab construction when filling the requirements of healthcare facilities including diagnostic offices, labs or clinics. The need for temporary structures such as a guard post or an overflow center for a large correctional institution can be quickly met with modular buildings. They also fulfill the demand for temporary facilities when there are renovations or repairs being made to existing structures. 

Modular Buildings for a Healthier Environment

The efficiency and positive aspects of green modular construction are becoming more appealing in order to minimize carbon footprints while acquiring an energy efficient dream home or structure. Modular construction offers the buyer various choices, not only for aesthetic appeal, but also improved energy efficiency. Construction of modular buildings occur off-site resulting in the avoidance of weather delays and reduced waste and toxic fumes, reducing the impact of the environment and creating a smaller carbon footprint.

Incorporating green features including low volume faucets, solar options and walls with increased insulation can all be part of the modular construction design. Planning for efficient appliances also adds to the building green aspect of modular construction. Window placement in coordination with how the structure will be placed on the lot provides efficient use of sunlight and optional features such as collection systems for rooftop rain water can also be integrated into the green construction design.

Ventilation issues taken into consideration during the planning of the building will make it more energy efficient by reducing the need to use air conditioning or fans. The financial benefits experienced with green construction can provide for future savings and a healthier environment. If the need to move ever arises, the mobile nature of modular construction allows the building to be easily transported and relocated which lessens the need for new construction, another way to lower environmental impact. Building green modular structures produces less waste, allows for the addition of energy efficient elements and provides a healthier living space in a shorter amount of time. 

Modular Correctional Facilities

With roughly one in every 100 adults in the United States incarcerated, correction facilities are experiencing an extreme degree of overcrowding. In fact, with budget cuts and a lack of funding, the prison system is desperate to find a plausible solution. In the meantime, correctional institutions should take a look at relieving the crowding strain by using modular construction to take care of their excess inmate housing needs.

 Besides the obvious speed of using modular construction, modular buildings offer more advantages for constructing medium and minimum security facilities such as flexibility and cost effectiveness. Complying with all federal, state and local regulations, these buildings can be customized to include surveillance equipment and other necessary items to maintain security parameters. 

Modularcorrectional facilities are primarily built at a factory. Once the bulk of construction is complete, modules are transported to any location inmate housing may be needed. Once delivered, final interior and exterior finishes are applied and utilities are connected. This accelerated construction process results in a shorter project timeline and earlier occupancy. 

For correctional institutions looking for an inmate housing solution, a modular building offers a cost-effective and long-term answer. Modular buildings are just as safe, secure and protective of public welfare as alternative options. With overcrowding continuing to be a foreseeable problem, administrators are urged to take action now by considering modular construction.

Emergency Modular Construction

Modular buildings have taken on many roles in society. They are often used as homes, offices, religious facilities, classrooms, health clinics and retail centers. During times of disaster they can provide an immediate solution to those in need. Whether it’s temporary housing, a command center for emergency response workers or swing space for an organization while its facility is being rebuilt, modular buildings can quickly and cost effectively meet almost any space need.

An example of this could be seen during Hurricane Katrina. Modular construction and pre-leased buildings provided an immediate space solution to victims during this time. The temporary housing program provided by the state allowed victims and families the opportunity to live in a new modular home as the victims began to rebuild their lives.

Due to the flexibility, speed and advancement of modular buildings, they are becoming an essential tool in disaster relief. Hurricane Katrina is just one example of the many possibilities modular construction provides during disaster recovery.

Hurricane Sandy Housing Lessons: How to Build a Better Home via AOL Real Estate

There were important housing lessons to be learned from Hurricane Sandy, which ravaged a good part of the East Coast last week.

Thousands of houses were without power for more than a week, and some are apt to be out for much longer. If those houses had been equipped with some form of renewable energy with battery backup, such as photovoltaic panels and wind turbines, they would have been able to have power and, perhaps, hot water -- even when they weren't getting power from the grid. The added advantage for the future, when the local power is restored, is that the homes would be able to give energy back to the grid in most locations and help lower utility bills.

Many of the people who have lost their power are currently sitting in very cold houses. One solution for those who are rebuilding -- or for those who want to just build better -- would be to construct their homes with such a tight envelope and super insulation that if the power goes out, the house can retain the existing heat for days on end. Building such a house involves the use of more insulation than code requires and exceptional attention to air sealing. This includes windows that are high efficiency and are not leaking air. A blower door test performed on the house will indicate where leaks may be in the entire envelope of the house. These leaks can be eliminated, making the house more comfortable and saving on fuel costs.

People are often concerned that building a house so efficiently will be very costly, but in reality, any additional cost for building such a tight, super-insulated envelope will begin to pay for itself from the day the homeowner moves into the house. After having researched home construction for several years, I have observed many houses that have either no heating system or just a minor system and are able to keep their homes quite comfortable by building a well insulated structure.

Another option that homeowners should consider is building their home using prefabricated construction. Many of the homeowners who have lost their homes in this storm will need a new one quickly. Building prefab can vastly shorten the construction time from a year or more to several months.

When people build homes for the future, they should consider building them stronger. Several years ago, in August 1992, after the high winds of Category 4 storm Hurricane Andrew, the Federal Emergency Management Agency concluded that "overall, relatively minimal structural damage was noted in modular housing developments. The module-to-module combination of units appears to have provided an inherently rigid system that performed much better than conventional residential framing."

These houses held up so well because they were built to a higher standard. The modules are built to withstand traveling 60 mph on the highway to the destination where they will be set. They also have to be strong enough to be lifted with a crane and set on a foundation. Typical on-site built houses could never endure this treatment. Modules are built under the close supervision of experienced workers and in protected environments where the materials are not compromised by exposure to the elements.

There are other advantages to prefabricated construction as well. Bringing in modules is far less obtrusive to the neighborhood; they are more predictable with fewer change orders, which end up costing the homeowner a great deal more money; and materials are saved, with many of them recycled in the factory. The homeowner is paying for all of the materials that go into a dumpster during on-site construction. Most of that debris is recycled in a factory setting. Wood cutoffs can be used on other houses, and drywall and metal are returned to the manufacturer to be recycled.

Two studies showed multiple advantages to prefab construction. In a study done several years ago, "Framing the American Dream," when two houses were built side by side, one built in panels and one built on-site, savings were found in man hours, labor costs and lumber for the panelized home, and there was less scrap and fewer dumpsters.

In another study in Philadelphia -- where construction costs were exceeding the amount that homeowners could afford to pay -- a coalition formed by a group of nonprofit and for-profit organizations found that replacing stick-built with modular construction would save $32 per square foot. The coalition concluded that "modular single-family-home construction significantly lowers the cost to build a new home in Philadelphia."

People who have read my books on prefab construction often ask me, "Why doesn't everyone build their houses this way? The advantages seem to be so obvious." My answer is always the same: "Prefab construction is the best-kept secret in America."

Now that we require a great deal of new housing on the East Coast -- homes that can be built fast and on a tight budget -- people need to consider these very efficient and expedient options. They should also be considered by anyone thinking about building or remodeling their home in other locations as well.




*Article via AOL Real Estate found at: http://realestate.aol.com/blog/2012/11/05/hurricane-sandy-housing-lessons-how-to-build-a-better-home/?goback=%2Egmr_1263907%2Egde_1263907_member_182857666

Flexibility in Modular Correctional and Public Safety Facilities

While we often think of utilizing modular buildings for housing and commercial use, they are also appropriate for correction and public safety facilities.  Whether it is a medium security prison, a small city jail or an emergency call center, modular structures provide safe and secure facilities to meet the requirements of this industry.  Modular construction has the ability to provide a custom layout of cells, holding areas and other aspects that the facility requires.  Additionally, with modular construction there is a decrease in construction time, which is an added bonus. 

Today, many prisons are reaching capacity and modular buildings conveniently provide temporary overflow cells or dormitories for inmates.  Additionally, juvenile detention centers, halfway houses and prison boot camps can be built modular.  Once the need for the extra space is gone, the structure can be moved to another site.  The need for swing space or temporary housing when an existing facility is being renovated or repaired is also met with these structures.

Flexibility in the design allows permanent modular buildings to be constructed from single to multiple levels with a countless variety of floor plans.  Modular construction allows small units such as guard booths to be easily moved and offices, storage or training rooms can be modified to suit specific requirements.  No matter if the correctional building is temporary or permanent, the manufacturing process produces less waste, saves on labor and material costs and is not affected by adverse weather.

HS Students Build Modular Homes via The Daily Business News of Manufactured and Modular Housing Industry News

Fosters reports from Somersworth, New Hampshire students at Somersworth High School and Career Technical Center are putting the finishing touches on a 1,500 square foot modular home that will likely go to a local needy family. Many of the 30 modular homes built over the years have gone to non-profits, including four that shipped to New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. Construction on the current home began in the school shop in Feb. 2012 with 35 students working in 2 one-and-a-half hour classes each day to build the home. Director of the career center Bette Chamberlain says, “We’re fortunate to have a large facility where we can do most of the work. It gives students the whole experience of what goes into building a house.” MHProNews has learned the students next project is a shed for a food pantry, and then another modular home.

Article via The Daily Business News of Manufactured and Modular Housing Industry News at: http://www.mhmarketingsalesmanagement.com/blogs/daily-business-news/hs-students-build-modular-homes/

Modular Construction and the Growing Population

Since 1900, the number of citizens in the United States has more than tripled with an average growth rate of 1.3 percent per year. Governments and businesses have had to think of creative ways to accommodate these new residents, both in terms of residential accommodations and commercial building solutions. For many, the answer lies in permanent and temporary modular buildings.

 
Schools/Portable Classrooms
 
Governments have provided 98,817 public schools and many of those permanent schools are older buildings. When it comes time to remodel a building, many schools are choosing to temporarily house their students in modular classrooms, until renovations are complete. In addition, many schools are growing at a fast rate.  For those schools, temporary classrooms can be erected quickly to accommodate the influx of students. Permanent modular classrooms are also an option for schools looking to expand quickly and efficiently.  

Daycares
 
Six and a half percent of all residents of the United States are under the age of five. This rate will likely grow in the United States, once the economy starts to recover. Therefore, there will be an expanding need for daycares. Well-established daycares may choose to add a temporary modular building to handle this influx of youngsters and ease overcrowding. Additionally, new daycares can open their doors much faster by utilizing permanent modular construction.
 
Healthcare
 
The increase in population leads to an increased need for healthcare facilities; medical offices, health clinics and labs. Many communities and private organizations owning hospitals will need additional space and may choose modular construction for a permanent or temporary solution.

Residential
 
The demand for apartment complexes will grow more in the next decade than ever before. Areas experiencing unprecedented growth can choose modular construction for a quick and efficient housing solution. Additionally, traditionally constructed apartment complexes can utilize temporary modular buildings during construction or to house offices, fitness facilities and other services offered to residents. Their are also a number of modular solutions that include but are not limited to condominiums and single family houses.

Many uses exist for modular construction.  Temporary or permanent, the combination of the two makes great sense with the growing population.

Modular Buildings offer Advantages for the Healthcare Industry

Modular buildings offer the healthcare industry quick construction turnaround and high value. Both factors are important in the modern era of tight budgets and difficult construction schedules. Modular buildings can be used for many healthcare applications such as medical offices, clinics, diagnostic imaging facilities, dialysis centers and medical laboratories. Medical facilities can benefit from the flexibility and value of modular construction, temporarily or long-term.

Modular Construction
A modular building is constructed in sections in a controlled factory environment. As the modules are constructed, site work commences to install foundation, utilities and initial site grading. Next, the modules are delivered to the site and assembled on the foundation. Lastly, utilities are connected and the final interior and exterior finishes are completed.

Temporary Use
Often, a renovation or large construction project displaces workers. Using a modular building as swing space is often the best solution to provide a temporary location to house workers and assist patients until the project is complete. Medical swing space can keep the clinic, hospital or emergency room functioning while providing uninterrupted service during construction. The recovery process from natural disasters can also be aided by modular construction. Temporary modular clinics and hospitals can serve the community while the permanent structures are rebuilt.

Long-Term Use
Modular medical buildings also offer value when used for a permanent medical facility. The final building erects quickly and may offer a more cost effective solution because of the efficiencies of factory construction compared to onsite construction methods. The modular construction process can offer the owner all of the same options for floor plans, interior decoration, detail and healthcare specific requirements such as oxygen lines and laboratories. Other specialty features that these modular building can have include: airborne infection isolation room to reduce the spread of illness), HEPA filtration system with a MERV 15 air filter in the HVAC system for fresh air, specimen pass-through cabinets, medical sinks with foot pedals, special electrical loads for medical equipment such as x-ray machines and more.

Affordable green modular homes for low-income households via the Marianas Variet

HAGÅTÑA — The island’s first green modular homes were introduced to the public on Thursday in a ribbon-cutting ceremony held in Yigo. The new homes offer an alternative and affordable option for low-income households.

Nanum Consulting Corp. vice president John S. Ko said the steel frame modular houses will be the first green-designed homes to be commercially offered on-island. Emphasizing the affordability of the units, Ko said their company is pushing for a construction rate of $80 to $85 per square foot, which is at least 30 percent cheaper than the islandwide standard of $125 per square foot. Nanum is spearheading the project in partnership with Guam HNC Inc. and Guam Nexus C&D.

The housing project offers 3- and 4-bedroom deluxe units in addition to affordable 1- and 2-bedroom units. Construction for the deluxe units will take at least 45 working days while the smaller, more affordable homes will take just 30 days to complete.

The affordable 1- and 2-bedroom modular steel frame houses, according to Ko, would probably cost around $50,000. He said they are working closely with the Guam Housing Corp., hoping to provide affordable housing to those who can’t afford to buy a home on Guam. GHC has a list of around 10,000 possible applicants.

In a presentation held before the ceremony, modular home designer Sun Hyun Chun said the units were designed and constructed based on Guam requirements, utilizing a technology that has been widely adopted all over the world.

The steel frame houses have limited concrete components, according to Chun, guaranteeing less radon gas emissions. Use of steel framing in construction, he added, is encouraged by the American Lung Association.

The design of the houses also offers better insulation which lessens household energy consumption.

A project briefer also endorsed the homes’ seismic and typhoon resistance qualities, promising that the building material can withstand a wind load of 200 miles per hour and will remain standing in any type of earthquake.

In addition, the briefer emphasized the material’s fire- and termite-resistant qualities. Using steel as a building material can also reduce the cost of construction insurance and homeowner insurance premiums.

At the end of his presentation, Chun said he hopes to have the new homes widely adopted on Guam.

*Article via the Marianas Variety found at: http://www.mvariety.com/cnmi/cnmi-news/local/50620-affordable-green-modular-homes-for-low-income-households

Modular Buildings for Retail Spaces

Modular buildings are prefabricated structures that consist of multiple building modules or sections.  Modular construction is often associated with temporary facilities, but the cost effectiveness of buildings has encouraged retail owners to utilize this prefabricated building method for permanent use as well.  

Permanent modular buildings are ideal for large retail spaces and convenience stores alike.  Off-site construction of buildings provide owners with a faster return on their investments due to shorter construction timelines as well as additional cost savings with sustainable features such as photovoltaic roof panels, sustainable cladding and low-e glazing to reduce heat gain. 

The renovation or expansion of an existing retail space can often displace staff and other occupants.  Swing space, or temporary building modules, can help in such instances to house displaced employees throughout construction.  This swing space concept allows retail stores to remain operational with minimum interruptions and prevents retailers from losing revenue.  Modular kiosks are also viable temporary (or permanent) solutions for retailers.  Kiosks, with their compact design, can open within 24 hours of being delivered to the site.

Technological advancements in traditional and modular construction enable builders to integrate the two construction types to expedite the building process.  The option of combining modular and traditional construction results in a turnkey project that is seamlessly integrated and masterfully created.  Modular construction, when combined with traditional construction, can also help reduce the project’s overall timeline by a month or more. These types of constructions can be applied to larger scale projects such as shopping malls with traditionally built common areas and the use of modular units for store and department spaces.

The flexibility and standardization of design with permanent modular structures provides a quality building that is highly functional and versatile; while temporary structures are ideal and are appealing solutions for swing spaces and kiosks.  These innovative design systems are unrivaled and can be applied to any renovation, expansion or new retail construction project.