Paragon regularly optimises how our modular buildings are created to create a more environmentally friendly process. As a modular building manufacturer, we work closely with our clients to develop affordable and energy-efficient solutions to their needs. As a result, modern modular buildings are energy efficient, high performance and low waste, and comply with all environmental regulations. However, there is always more to be done as we develop new processes and technologies.Traditional construction has revealed the size of its carbon footprint. As a result, many clients have resorted to looking for more environmentally friendly solutions, regardless of whether they require a permanent or temporary building. Clients from the education to manufacturing sectors are all looking to improve their environmental impact, and modular buildings have proven to be a significant step in the right direction.
Modular Buildings Headlines
When the lockdown first hit, modular buildings were thrust to the forefront of the world's view. They were used to provide emergency medical facilities worldwide in record time. Modular buildings made headlines and received universal acclaim that exposed the industry as the solution we may not have realised we needed. This sudden exposure has resulted in a shift in technological development. Even the desirability clients look for in project solutions.Homes England has invested £30 million into modular home construction. This is because they have recognised modular construction as the way forward for the construction industry. This comes with the plan to provide much-needed housing at a quicker, more affordable, and sustainable rate. If we were to rely on traditional construction, significant waiting times would span multiple years, and much more money would be needed for the development.
The current construction industry needs shaking up. The UK Green Building Council has reported that 400m tonnes of materials are used in construction every year in the UK alone. It is hoped that the modular building industry will play a key role in reducing this massive material usage and reducing construction's carbon footprint with proper support and funding. By 2025, our construction waste alone will have reached 2.2bn tonnes globally, so reducing landfill waste must become a priority, and modular construction offers that solution.
Are modular buildings energy efficient?
One of the main advantages of modular buildings and their contribution to sustainability is their energy efficiency. By using modern technology, design standards and upholding the highest eco-friendly regulations, modular buildings save you money on more than just the construction bill. Modular buildings are airtight and made with energy-efficient materials to prevent thermal leakage. As a result, you only use the energy you need. These energy-efficient constructions reduce in-use carbon emissions for the lifetime of the building, making them a long term environmentally friendly solution.We have commented on the energy efficiency of modular buildings once built. Still, the production of modular buildings is also much more efficient and eco-friendlier. In addition, the factory setting in which modular buildings are manufactured makes it easier to control the energy usage than in open construction sites. All these factors feedback to more sustainable construction and energy-efficient process.
How is volumetric manufacturing more sustainable?
Volumetric construction is the process of manufacturing in a controlled factory setting. This approach has been the central element in contributing to an environmentally friendly solution that cuts costs. Build times are reduced by an impressive 50-60% but have allowed for an increase in quality, safety, and productivity.As modules are pre-planned before manufacture, everything required is made available in exacting amounts. However, any surplus materials can quickly and correctly be recycled or reused, reducing construction waste and increasing efficiency. In addition, as manufacturing takes place in a factory setting, materials are protected from weather conditions and damage, making them higher quality.With an average of 67% less energy needed to produce modular buildings, those savings can be fed back into the modular construction to benefit the buyer. Furthermore, with 50% less time spent on-site than conventional construction and a massive 90% fewer vehicles commuting to and from the site, there is already a clear saving on energy and reducing greenhouse gases.
How does being sustainable make modular buildings more affordable?
We often think that if something is built to be environmentally friendly, it must be much more expensive. However, modular building design and construction precision allow for considerable savings. Modular designs are digitally constructed and virtually tested, vetted with the client at the beginning of the process before even considering moving on to the manufacturing phase. This allows all elements to be considered and agreed upon. Whilst this means limited flexibility in the manufacturing process, it does mean that all the agreed-upon materials are available in their exact requirements, minimising waste and hidden costs.Once the manufacturing process begins, the production is not hindered by weather delays or material delivery.
Everything is readily available and is completed at a set schedule. These efficiency factors cut down on needless waste and uncertainties, which cost time and money in the construction industry.Modular buildings are certainly the next big step in changing the face of the construction industry. However, improving environmental standards relies on making everyone more aware and thoughtful of the cost and process that goes into construction.Suppose you are interested in learning more about the sustainability of Paragon's modular buildings. In that case, you can contact us at 01482 890705 or even email us at [email protected]. Our factory and base of operations are situated in Hull, Yorkshire, and we provide sustainable solutions to businesses across the UK.