MetalBuildingReference.Org

            To specify what types of  building systems are in use today there needs to be a comparison of two types of construction approaches - that of modular and that of pre-fabricated steel. This will help to clarify what is the best available choice to the consumer on the current market.
            The first consideration is that of modular construction. This type of construction is an evolved process for a structure in which the building is assembled in three dimensional segments (i.e. modules) in a specific factory enclosure.
            This process begins, normally, with a specifically designed floor plan for square footage. The plan is then broken down into smaller segments, or modules, which are constructed individually at the plant using professional, commercial-grade wall, roof, floor and ceiling components made up of wood or pre-cast concrete. The inherent mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and exterior portions of the structure are finished in advance of shipping to the project work site. This type of production can involve only a few days of factory hours in contrast to the weeks or months of on-site time to complete a disassembled structure from conventional materials. This allows on-site development personnel ample time for prep work and ancillary concurrent construction, if necessary. Prisons, some offices, barracks, and dormitories use this type of approach when considering new space. Time savings is maximized with the use of modular construction.  Erection and final assembly is normally done by a contractor.
            Pre-fabricated steel building systems  are manufactured using pre-engineered processes and are subject to some sub-assembly at a plant. These types of structures can be smaller or larger in dimension and are shipped to the work site as a complete structural package. Storage sheds and smaller suburban hobby shops fit into this category along with larger schools and sports complexes. These type of buildings typically use commercial grade 26 gauge steel throughout the entire structure and are also normally pre-cut, pre-welded, and pre-drilled prior to shipment to the work site. Purchasers of these type of structures typically work with the manufacturer or a manufacturer’s representative, be it a dealer, contract manufacturer, or dealer. The design of the building along with all options and components is known upfront before any building fabrication commences. This allows for the proper loading of the building to meet the specific requirements of the locality in which it will be constructed. A pre-engineered and pre-fabricated steel building destined for a hurricane-prone county in Florida will have vastly different final specifications than a similar sized building requiring a heavy snow load in the mountains of Colorado. These types of systems are also shipped ready to assemble at the job site and can take as little as half the time to erect when compared to construction schedules of more traditional types of buildings such as wood, brick, or block. Typically, these types of structures  are shipped as complete building packages and the there is no waiting for additional structural components and options such as doors and windows from various vendors.