Fun Modular Projects 5

Today is the last installment on fun modular projects. We have been in business since 1996, so this series of articles could run for the rest of the year and not run out of great subject material.
For this last project I thought it would be fun to show the versatility of a modular building. We constructed a modular building for a school district in Arizona that was using the modular building for vocational education. The challenge was to incorporate all these various training resources into a single building.

Areas Required:
1. Cullinary Arts (complete commercial kitchen and food service)
2. Early Childhood Education(daycare center)
3. Automotive (vehicle maintenance & repair)
4. General Education Degree (GED program)
5. Computer Training (Computer lab & training)
6. STEM (general scientific studies)

Such a diverse use of training rooms required classrooms for each area as well as hands on learning lab and application.

Challenges:
The project had to be installed over the winter break, which meant snow and bad weather. Because everything was prefabricated & the building came out 95% complete the weather did not impact the total project schedule or budget.

Challenges:
Getting all the diverse uses into one facility. We designed fire walls, noise walls, service roll up doors, and other items to ensure a cohesive learning environment throughout.

Fun design elements:
There were existing structures with steel roofs, our design team matched the design and built in porches and offset design so the building was more inviting. The culinary arts kitchen was great to design as this was one of the first vocational type facilities in the state.


For more information about vocational education projects or this building contact our team at:
Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1
email: information@mod-sol.com
website: www.modularsolutionsltd.com

Fun Modular Projects 4

When many of our clients think about getting a new modular building they come to us with rectangular box designs and that is that is considered the industry standard. Unfortunately in our industry there are still many manufacturing companies that only specialize in the "BOX" mentality. While that type of building has a place in the world of modular there are more interesting projects out there that should be shared. We provided a project on the Navajo Nation that was for a community center. The elders in the community are comfortable with the hogan design. This project is Birdsprings Chapter House. We utilized our 'in-house" architect to design the actual modular project, and worked with architect Randall Ewers to provide all the conceptual and site design work.

Unique Challenges:
Steel Roof: We prefabricated the roof sections so they could be crane set on site
Expansive Soil: We custom designed footers to accommodate the expansive soil conditions saving money on site work
Porches on expansive soil: We prefabricated porches into the modular frames & finished on site using hybrid construction

Fun Design Elements:
The hogan shape was the most unique part of this project design. Incorporating a commercial kitchen made this building a great multi-function building for the community

Modular Solutions, Ltd is a Native American owned company. If your community needs assistance with design or construction we can fabricate a permanent modular or traditional site built structure to meet any space need.

For more information contact us:

Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1
email: information@mod-sol.com
website: www.modularsolutionsltd.com
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Fun Modular Projects 3

This project was one that is probably one of the most unique projects in the industry. Our team was tasked with the solution of how to get a modular building to the bottom of the Grand Canyon for the Havasupai Tribe in Arizona. A complete modular building is way to heavy to get to the bottom of the canyon even with a helicopter so we had to develop a solution that was quick and that would still be economical for the tribe.

Our team used our MPANEL system of construction so we could take down completed components and save time on site. The bulk materials such as mechanical units, insulation, osb, siding, were bundled and numbered put in connex boxes, and taken to a staging area by helicopter. The project solution was an alternative to traditional construction which would have taken over a year to complete. Our crews were on site for 30 days from initial flight down through occupancy, including all utility connections.

Critical Path Items:
Securing the large commercial helicopter. There are only a few in the entire US and federal agencies have first rights to them for emergency use.
Pre-construction coordination with tribal officials, utility authorities, local TERO compliance.
Sacred tree had to be saved so construction work space was very limited and tight.

Fun Design Elements:
While this was just a basic classroom in the end, putting together the logistic details of this project was what made it fun. Every part, piece component & timing element were critical.

Surrounding Job Elements:
Our crews enjoyed the rustic beauty of this project, there were no hotels or lodgings available.

If you would like more information on this project or if you would like a solution to your space challenge contact our team:
Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1
email: information@mod-sol.com
website:www.modularsolutionsltd.com


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Fun Modular Projects 2

Modular buildings can be constructed of rigid steel. When we construct a facility that needs to go UP the two most critical design elements are the foundation system and the structural integrity...both items you never see but never want to fail.

This project we did is an example of our multi-story modular construction. If you like time lapse construction videos, watch this project going in from day 1 through occupancy. VIDEO LINK

Project Challenges:
Working around existing conditions. The site was in a parking lot with all kinds of utility spaghetti under the surface. We had to ensure the hospital was never faced with losing power or communications to the other buildings while we worked on our proeject.

Fun Design Elements:
While this client chose to not get LEED certified in the end, the project was constructed so that all elements met LEED certification. By using a modular they gained points they would not have otherwise received and everything in the building was energy star, sustainable, and "green".

Phased Construction:
Due to funding processes, we had to design the entire building as if a huge part of the structure (the training rooms) may or may not be included. Waiting until federal funding was approved to construct 1/3rd of the building.

Monsoon Weather:
The project was installed during monsoon season. The crews had to work around high winds and weather, but since so much of the facility was completed in the plant there were very few weather delay days.

For more information on multi-story modular construction contact our team:
Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1
email: information@Mod-sol.com
website: www.modularsolutionsltd.com
facebook: www.facebook.com/modularsolutionsltd LIKE US!

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Fun Modular Projects 1

Modular buildings and prefabricated construction are used for lots of space solutions. You will see projects that range from construction trailers to permanent multi-story facilities all called "modular" buildings.

This week we will share a few fun and innovative projects with you, just so that you can envision the possibilities!

What if you live at the bottom of the Grand Canyon and have to pack mule/hike/helicopter lift out of the Canyon? Not an easy lifestyle. In collaboration with the NPS, we constructed duplex housing on the top of the Canyon for members of the Havasupai tribe that needed a place to stay so that they could attend school or work daily. This housing had to be ADA accessible throughout in case the occupant was a tribal elder. The solution was fun and innovative and not an "off-the-shelf" modular like what is scattered throughout the park. The tribe had been waiting for this housing solution since the early 1970's and was grateful to see the housing finally in place.

What were some of the unique challenges of this project?
Placement of the large duplexes was difficult. In a national park you are only allowed to move or relocate certain species and sizes of trees and foliage.

What was the most creative solution?
The customer had high snow load conditions and required a minimum of 6:12 pitch roof. On a traditional modular structure this can not ship down the road, so we designed the removeable roofs. The wrap around porches also gave the occupants a view of the glorious park from all sides.

How was this good for the environment?
All of the appliances, windows, mechanical systems, & windows were energy star. As well as using sustainable finishes such as bamboo flooring, and recycle content insulation in the 2 x 6 walls.

For more information contact our team:
Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1
email: information@mod-sol.com
website: www.modularsolutionsltd.com

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Show Me Some Fun Projects!

When we meet with clients we are often asked what is possible with modular construction? The answer.....ANYTHING! When you set down in the design stages and have a team create innovative design solutions you are able to make the perfect space solution!

I have had readers ask me to share some of our fun and memorable projects that have been done over the years. In my time in the industry (mid 80's) until now we have seen modular buildings go from basic boxes on wheels, to elaborate very dimensional projects. Over the next week I will highlight a few fun projects that were unique and that really show the flexibility of prefabricated construction. Until then have a great weekend!

Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1
email: information@mod-sol.com
website: www.modularsolutionsltd.com

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Modular Solutions, Ltd NEW WEB SITE, is LIVE!

If you find this blog informative, you will really enjoy our new website. The new website is filled with pictures, project summaries, and facts about modular building construction
Stop by and share your thoughts about our new website on our facebook page www.facebook.com/ModularSolutionsLtd

Thank you for being in our community!

The website is the same easy address www.modularsolutionsltd.com and there is also a mobile version!

Modular Solutions, Ltd

Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1
website: www.modularsolutionsltd.com
facebook: www.facebook.com/modularsolutionsltd

What Do I Do If We Have Bad Soil Conditions?

We are frequently asked by clients on a tight budget, "why do we want to spend money on testing the soil, aren't modular buildings made to move with the ground?"

I guess to answer that question you have to ask a few questions.
1. What are your goals for the modular building - temporary or permanent use
2. Has there been any construction in this area before to look for signs of bad soil conditions with other structures
3. Can we do a little test dig where you want this to go & take a look

Soils testing is performed by an engineering company that specializes in geotechnical surveys. The reason you do a geotechnical survey is to find out what kind of ground conditions the modular building and the foundation will be setting on. If you have soil that is expansive or that moves you will want to excavate out or even bring in new soil to mix with the bad soil so your building does not settle or your foundation does not fail. Have you ever watched those sink hole videos on the internet? Not a good example of solid soil conditions.

Modular buildings are designed to have some give/take room, which is why many modular building dealers will set a modular building on piers & just readjust the piers as a building shifts or moves. While you may see this in the industry for short term temporary installations it is not recommended on long term or permanent installations. Piers that adjust do not "fix" bad soil conditions and if not addressed by an engineering professional you may be at risk.

Many states have regulations regarding soil condition reports and enforce those regulations. It is always best to work with a company that has experience in grading and in soil conditions reporting so that you can make an educated and informed decision.

For more details on soil conditions & modular building installations contact our team:

Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1
website: www.modularsolutionsltd.com
email: Information@mod-sol.com

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Reduce Your Carbon Footprint, With A Solatube

With everyone wanting to be more "green" and building an environmentally friendly modular building we often asked what is a better way to light naturally without all the heat penetration from standard windows. Our solution has been to include "solatube" lighting. This is a name brand, I think their industry nomenclature is tubular daylight device. What ever you choose to call them, there are many great benefits.

1. No heat transference, sky lights and windows allow sunlight in-the design of this device only allows the light to bend through & into your space
2. These tubular daylights are so bright you can even turn off all lighting during the day & have a brightly lit room
3. With the flexible shape & design they can be placed almost anywhere in your modular building
4. Low maintenance & repair. Unlike traditional skylights that require motors and constant maintenance, when installed properly an annual inspection will show if you need any preventative maintenance.
5. Energy star endorses the "solatube" brand due to its proprietary bright lighting capacity, and light damper capacity
Their website is located at : http://www.solatube.com/commercial

Anything you can design into your modular building to reduce your carbon footprint is the great for the environment. This is an alternative that has been very successful in warm and sunny climates.


For more information regarding alternative lighting methods contact our team:

Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1
email: information@mod-sol.com
website: www.modularsolutionsltd.com
facebook: www.facebook.com/modularsolutionsltd
youtube: http://www.youtube.com/user/modularsolutionsltd
Linked in: http://www.linkedin.com/company/modular-solutions-ltd---phoenix


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Bigger Is Not Always Better

A great advantage to modular construction is that you can travel down remote and rural roads and place a completely finished structure in as little as a day. One thing that has to be considered is the transportation route to the project site.

Many highways and roadways have restrictions that you have to be aware of to make sure your building arrives onsite the way it left the factory.....perfect!

Some common road hazards to watch for:
1. Low bridges or highway overpasses
2. Streetlights & power poles
3. Communication & power wires
4. Road construction restrictions (over width)
5. Road switchbacks & hairpin turns
6. Old bridges or roadways with weight restrictions

The best way to know about fixed hazards is to ask a transport company to run a route for you during the design stage of your project. This will allow you to take into consideration the overall maximum width & height of your section design. Construction routing unfortunately can only be determined as the building is ready to transport or by looking at the DOT road construction forecast website to see where roadways will be constricted.

When you exceed the maximum allowable height or width of a modular section extra fees are required for police or pole car escorts.

While it is great to get the maximum total square ft allowable in one section, it is also sometimes as expensive or a more expensive cost than just making the sections smaller and adding one or two more sections.

For more information or planning contact our team:

Modular Solutions,Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1
email: information@mod-sol.com
website: www.modularsolutionsltd.com

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NEW WEBSITE, COMING SOON!

Modular Solutions, Ltd has been known as the experts in the industry because we always offer free advice and consultations and we have a great team of experts willing to share our hundreds of years of combined experience. We are excited to share we will soon have a brand new website update. The new website will contain a mobile version for access from any smart phone or tablet or I-device. We have also added lots of new information about modular construction and the benefits of choosing prefabricated buildings.

We hope that you will take a look at the new site when it goes live to learn more about modular buildings and the modular construction industry. Our website address will be the same easy access,
www.modularsolutionsltd.com it will just be more accessible to anyone who needs quick access and professional input on modular construction options.

This blog is also dedicated to anyone looking for more information on modular buildings. We would love to hear your questions, or get feedback about our current subject matter.

To contact our team:

Modular Solutions Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1
email: information@mod-sol.com
website: www.modularsolutionsltd.com

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