Mobile Office Maintenance Tips

A mobile office is meant to be a temporary fix for short to medium space goals. Frequently a mobile office "fix" becomes a permanent solution. Once your mobile office is in place an can be used for any typical occupancy you can keep it on site and continue to keep the space useable. The main thing you need to do is keep up your maintenance and that will extend the life cycle of your mobile office so you are not spending more monthly to fix & repair than the space budget allows.

TIPS FOR MOBILE OFFICE MAINTENANCE:
1. Chance your a/c filters monthly, due to the end mounted location they get lots of dirt & dust to clog the units up
2. Paint & caulk your trim regularly, if not the trim will curl and come off allowing moisture in
3. If you have a tile floor, seal it. Keeps moisture out during regular mop sessions
4. Inspect your crawlspace regularly, ensure no water or moisture is trapped down there
5. Check the sewer/water connections under the building make sure they are not leaking and causing damage
6. Visually inspect for termite or other critters that can cause damage, if found treat immediately
7. Check your thermostats, make sure they are running correctly so you mechanical unit is not overworking
8. Inspect for roof leaks, any moisture in a building is harmful. Repair immediately if damage found

If you follow these tips you can expect to get maximum life cycle from your mobile office. If you want a building that is a permanent building then look at the option of a permanent modular building. The construction is the same as site built and has a 50+ year life cycle.

For more information contact our team at Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1
Email: information@ModularSolutionsLtd.com
Web: www.ModularSolutionsLtd.com

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Modular Buildings And Infrastructure

When a modular building is getting put in place as a permanent space solution there may need to be infrastructure put in place. What is infrastructure? Infrastructure is the off-site site work that has to be developed in order for the modular building to be functional and in working order. Your streets, your power grid, your sewer and water lines from public utility.

When calculating the entire cost of a modular building project it is important to look at the over all cost and site work that will be required to gain occupancy.
Take a look at some items below that can substantially impact the total project costs of your modular building addition.

Some things to look at when calculating the entire project cost:
1. Does the property have developed roads and sidewalks and curb cuts to the location
2. Where is the power coming from- How far away
3. Is there a power transformer nearby to make the power useable
4. Is there sewer on the property or in the street near by or do you need alternative solution
5. Is there a water line or even water available (do you need alternative solution)

When you are getting ready to purchase a custom modular building you should select a team with experience in site work and infrastructure to ensure your total budget does not go over funds available. For more information and for a free proposal contact our team at Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1
email: Information@ModularSolutionsLtd.com
Website: www.ModularSolutionsLtd.

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Mobile Office Mechanical Tips

This time of year as we start thinking about getting the cooling side of our units running efficiently (at least in Arizona), there are some quick maintenance items that will help keep the life cycle of your wall mounted mechanical unit lasting longer. The wall mounted mechanical unit is unique to the modular and mobile office industry. While some projects will use package roof top or ground units or even special designed chillers & boiler systems the majority of mobile office units have wall hung package units.

TIPS FOR MAINTAINING A CENTRAL WALL MOUNTED SYSTEM:
1. Change the filters: especially if you live in dusty or dry environment. The filters will trap the dirt and make your unit work harder-This should be a regular monthly task, keep a calendar beside the unit to remind you when to change the filters.
2. Check your thermostat: industry standard programmable thermostats have a shorter life cycle and you may want to make sure the thermostat is regulating the correct temperature readings
3. If you don't have inhouse maintenance have a service team come & clean out the system. This will extend the life cycle
4. visually inspect your ductwork. If your ductwork is leaking the mechanical unit will work harder and be on for longer cycles
5. Plant vegetation or shading nearby. This will reduce the heat and allow the unit to cool outside air faster

To learn more about mobile office mechanical unit choices contact our team of experts at
Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: (800) 441-8577
email: Information@ModularSolutionsLtd.com
website: WWW.ModularSolutionsLtd.com

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Can Lumber Imperfections Effect My Modular Building? Tips to look for!

In the construction industry sometimes lumber is purchased and will set too long, or because it is a product of nature will be delivered to a project site with flaws. It is up to the integrity of the company to refuse the order or use it for nonstructural elements (like a disposable shipping walls). When the manufacturer or contractor decides to take a risk and use lumber that was once first quality and now has flaws you see construction quality impacted.

Manufacturing firms should have an open door policy so that you can inspect the construction of your modular building at any time during the construction phase. It is a team effort to ensure the highest quality leaves the modular manufacturing plant. So ask if you are allowed to tour your manufacturing facility before you make that final commitment.

Some tips for finding lumber flaws:

1. Look for bows twists or in general lumber that does not stack flat
2. Look for splits or knot holes
3. KD fir is a high quality lumber you can request, usually better quality
4. Is lumber full height original material for integrity or is it pieced together with left overs
5. Is lumber rated for use indicated (architectural plans will identify this)
6. You can also build using steel studs

For any questions consult your professional, they will ensure you get what you pay for.

Call Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone(800) 441-8577 x 1


Email: Information@ModularSolutionsLtd.com
Website: www.ModularSolutionsLtd.com

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Mobile Office Tie Downs, Worth The Money?

There are options on mobile office proposals for "tie-downs". Many ask do I need tie downs? Why are they an option? Some tips for you to consider when installing a mobile office.
High winds, tornadoes, dust devils, micro bursts, all names for the same thing a burst of wind that takes anything in its' path with a vengeance. Do you want a temporary mobile office to end up costing you full value of replacement and no benefits? See those pictures where some buildings (even traditional built structures) are completely demolished and others are left standing. Ever wonder why?

TIE DOWN TIPS:
1. Location: Open spaces are more subject to wind bursts and tunnels
2. Types of Tie Downs: Auger, Weld Plates, Cross Drive, XI, concrete slab, chooses according to the use and need. An experienced modular building company can help you choose the best option
3. Type of Ground: Dirt, Concrete slab, Asphalt parking lot, Rocky grade, what will the foundation conditions be? The right tie down will make a difference!
4. Weight of Building: A heavier building (like a concrete floor modular building) vs. a small mobile office will impact the resistance to the wind
5. Grade level of installation: Buildings set above the ground are more likely to take an impact than buildings set at grade level where the foundation is concealed
6. How good is your insurance? The small fee for installing tie downs is 99.99999 percent of the time worth the investment, to help prevent a mobile office from blowing over in high wind conditions. Insurance will cover the buildings, but sometimes they will place a % of the blame on you the lessee for NOT taking sufficient measures to protect the property (like not wearing a seatbelt in a traffic accident) and then - who pays? Well YOU!

If you would like more information on tie downs or mobile offices contact
our team at Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1
Email: information@ModularSolutionsLtd.com
Web: www.ModularSolutionsLtd.com

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Space Planning Tips, For Your Modular Building

Starting a space plan can be very overwhelming if you are not sure of what is required and how to place all the occupants. With a few tips we can help you visualize the space and make it real.

TIPS FOR SPACE PLANNING:


1. Make a list of each occupant by department or at least body count (ie 7 in planning office, 3 in operations) this will help you get an idea of total space
2. Make a list of additional spaces that will make life comfortable and that need to be included (restrooms, break room, copy room, etc)
3. Decide on flow, who need to be next to each other and who needs to be separate or secured
4. Look at storage space needs (files, chemicals, cleaning supplies, special items (weapons/money/pharmaceuticals)
5. Reception and security, do you need a separate reception area & do you need to make it secure from the rest of the building
6. Egress, are there certain staff or occupants that will need direct egress out of a building, or secured egress
7. LOOK AT FUTURE GROWTH POTENTIAL. Nothing worse than building for now, and having to "re-build" shortly thereafter

Our preconstruction team can take this list of space needs and goals, and provide you with a free conceptual floorplan.

For a free consultation contact our team at Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577
Email: information@ModularSolutionsLtd.com
Web: www.ModularSolutionsLtd.com

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Deck UP Your Mobile Office

Modular buildings have a reputation for being "spongey" or having floor movement. This is common in "industry-standard" units that build to meet the code. If you are steering away from a modular building because you don't like the way the floors feel, learn more about the sub floor or "DECKING".

A great solution is to just upgrade the thickness of the sub floor and you will see huge results. Our classroom modular buildings are typically 1 1/8" thick and this holds up to the daily traffic of children with stupendous results.

If you are looking for a short term or long term space solution it is great to have a stable floor underfoot. Clients looking for a permanent space solution will choose the concrete floor modular buildings and know they have selected a 50 year+ life cycle option. Architects will generally suggest you consider this in your total budget.
Since the cost of materials goes up with each grade of OSB or Plywood selected budget is often a concern, but once you feel the difference underfoot, you know you have made the right choice.
If you are not sure take a stroll through your local hardware store and look at the different decking materials, by seeing and feeling the difference you can have a complete understanding of the variables in quality and life cycle.


For more detail contact our preconstruction team at Modular Solutions, Ltd
PHONE: 800 441-8577 x 1
Email: Information@ModularSolutionsLtd.com
Website: www.ModularSolutionsLtd.com

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Whisper, or upgrade your doors? Mobile Office Interior Doors

Have you ever been in an office and even with the door closed you can hear everything? There is a fix for that lets look at some options!
Industry standard doors are hollow core, and made out of a prefinished wood and get painted or have a veneer on them. While this type of door is inexpensive, it is hollow and sound can transfer under the door and through the door.

WHAT DOOR TO CHOOSE?
If you are looking for a door that will hold up for commercial traffic and will cut back on sound transmission, look at a solid core door in a steel jamb. The hinges are heavier duty, the jamb will last longer and the doors look great. A stained door slab is very attractive and will always give you a long life cycle. If you are just looking for function a very popular option is a veneer door. They come fire rated and hollow core. The cost is less expensive the life cycle shorter.

No Matter which doors you choose know that you have options, and there are "values" for quantity buying industry standards, and there are "values" for doors that will offer extended lifecycle and lower maintenance. Identify if security and other issues are a concern and start to narrow down your choices.

For more information on this topic contact our experts at Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1
Email: Informaation@ModularSolutionsLtd.com
Website: www.ModularSolutionsLtd.com

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Raise The Roof, Or At Least The Ceiling Height!

Will you be building a church or a sales office? Many of our clients love modular construction but do not want a 8' nominal ceiling height which is "industry-standard". Because many mobile office vendors make only one type of building, clients are told 8' is it......in reality there are no limits!

Building a higher ceiling height is just a matter of preplanning and having an innovative factory that will get it done!

Some cautions, with traditional modular construction methods, when you raise the ceiling you raise your shipping height, so routing and the way you get there is critical! But there are lots of great ways to raise the ceiling height and not have that worry.

TIPS FOR HIGHER CEILINGS:
1. Omit the T-Grid and use decorative ductwork and exposed beams
2. Hinged roof systems
3. Telescoping roof systems
4. MPANELS

The open feeling you get with a higher ceiling is sometimes necessary for your use. Explore these options with our preconstruciton team to see what would be the best fit and advantage for your space needs.

CONTACT MODULAR SOLUTIONS, LTD (800) 441-8577 X 1
EMAIL: information@ModularSolutionsLtd.com
WEBSITE: www.ModularSolutionsLtd.com

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Lower your modular building utility bills, ITS EASY!

How many times do you go the the mailbox and go "agghh" when you see the envelope from the local utility company? If you plan a little we have a few tips that can help you keep your bills lower without changing your consumption habits.

TIPS FOR KEEPING THE SUN OUT:
1. If you are just getting started consider passive solar options. In passive solar building design, windows, walls, and floors are made to collect, store, and distribute solar energy in the form of heat in the winter and reject solar heat in the summer. This is called passive solar design or climatic design because, unlike active solar heating systems, it doesn't involve the use of mechanical and electrical devices.
2. Plant wisely, trees bushes and other landscape can block the sun and help cool down your structure
3. Exterior and interior shutters, help keep bills lower by blocking OUT the sun
4. Mini blinds, even a simple mini blind can make a little difference
5. Awnings & porches strategically placed to capture and block sun at prime times

Contact our experts for more tips and involve us in the early stages so our preconstruction team can design wisely!

PHONE: 800-441-8577 X 1
EMAIL: Information@ModularSolutionsLtd.com
WEBSITE: www.ModularSolutionsLtd.com

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A Hot Debate, CPVC vs. Copper, Which One For Your Modular Building?

Commercial and residential modular buildings have been using CPVC pipe for some time for plumbing. So if it is so widely accepted why is there still a debate?
There are many pros and cons of both material types, in the end it is up to you to decide which will work for you in the short & long term.

Copper is a metal that is a very strong conductor of heat and electricity. It is often used for piping and holds the majority of the market share. Copper is such an effective plumbing material is because it is strong and lightweight, and can be used for corrosion resistant parts.

CPVC, is both very durable and inexpensive. It is currently becoming more popular in the market and is the preferred material when it comes to large-scale construction projects. Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CVPC) is commonly used because it is safely used for hot and cold water applications. PVC can only be used with cold water use.

Why Copper? Pros & Cons:
It has a proven track record in the construction industry & is durable
It can bend and you can track a leak easily
Recycle value at end of life cycle, also makes cool wind chimes & art
Some like copper for its' fire resistance and bacteria resistance values
It does take a more experienced installer
The material is more expensive, and sometimes long lead
Various quality levels and thicknesses make sure appropriate is selected


Why CPVC? Pros & Cons:
It is corrosion resistant
Materials & labor are less expensive
Readily available "off-the-shelf" installation tools and materials
It is a quieter delivery system than copper
Material can puncture more easily
No recycle value

There is no clearcut winner, it usually boils down to budget & personal preference. Just make sure you know what you want when you order your modular building so there are no surprises.

For more information contact Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577
Email: Information@ModularSolutionsLtd.com
Website: www.ModularSolutionsLtd.com

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what are MPANELS?

Modular Solutions, Ltd has a great new product line to service our clients. MPANELS are panelized construction built off site and assembled on site in a matter of hours with a crane. Panelized construction has been around for many years, but MPANELS are trademarked and unique. We are able to panelize the walls & roof systems and rough in the plumbing & electrical so that the on site connections are quicker & more efficient.

The panelization of the new prefabricated building is completely unique. Every project is custom designed to meet the site requirements, the structural goals, and the aesthetic appeal. Our clients wanted to achieve a way to utilize traditional concrete slab floors, and get high ceilings and fun finishes. With traditional construction it took 6-12 months to see a building ready to occupy, with modular construction there were shipping and size limitations. MPANELS offer all of the benefits of modular construction with none of the limitations.

Benefits:
1. High ceilings and roofs
2. Pitched roofs in large complex structures
3. Watertight in a day
4. Interior & Exterior finishes unlimited
5. Concrete slab floors
6. Custom design, no limitations
7. Quick Occupancy 90 days or less in most cases
8. Wood or Steel construction
9. Working with the great team at Modular Solutions, Ltd

Contact our team at (800) 441-8577 x 1
Email: information@ModularSolutionsLtd.com
Website: www.ModularSolutionsLtd.com

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Agricultural Buildings, Grow Wisely With Prefabricated Buildings

If you are an agricultural enterprise, chances are you have the opportunity to grow this year. Maybe you need a new barn, or storage, or office for the staff, or sleeping quarters for the crews.
The great thing about agricultural enterprise is that you are "zoning" exempt in most cases meaning QUICK, and AFFORDABLE building solutions!

Discover how we can meet your unique space needs by looking at all the options prefabricated buildings can offer:

AGRICULTURAL BUILDINGS:
1. Pole barn: For storage of almost everything
2. Employee or staff living quarters: Equipped with food services or just living quarters
3. Office Space: For staff, keeping administrative offices for HR and other record keeping on site
4. Storage Facility: For hazard materials, general storage, feed, tools, equipment, etc
5. Produce Sales Office: If you operate a to the public sales facility nice to have a place to keep it covered
6. Livestock: Livestock Barns, and quarters to keep them from weather conditions
7. Farm Owners Residence: Custom modular homes for the owner and their families

The great thing is custom buildings can be manufactured out of the best material for the job! Wood sheds, steel Pole Barns, Steel Buildings, Aluminum Awnings, "recycle" wood alternative, concrete slab floor or no slab, traditional modular, HUD home, and more. We help you get the best value by meeting the need and working within your budget.

Agriculture has a rich history in the USA, and making ends meet gets tougher every year. Modular Solutions, Ltd is here to help you get creative space solutions to meet the ever changing needs of the farming business.

CONTACT US: Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: (800) 441-8577 x 1
Email: Information@ModularSolutionsLtd.com
Website: www.ModularSolutionsLtd.com

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Project Manager, For A Modular Project?

Many clients start learning about modular construction and have the misconception that because the project is a "modular" you just fill in some blanks on a specification form and your modular building arrives complete & ready to move into in 60 days. UNFORTUNATELY, this is far from reality. Modular construction has many moving parts and is infact more difficult to manage than a traditional site built project because things happen so rapidly.

If you hire a modular company one key to the success of the project will be if they have a site superintendent to oversee what happens on site and if they have a project manager to ensure the building is constructed correctly and the schedule coordination with site efforts is seamless.

What does a project manager do?
1. Over see initial plans to ensure they meet codes, and follow the clients expectations. Reviewing the plans with the client during every phase to offer helpful suggestions for successful design.
2. Create a master schedule for sub contractors and the general contracting part of the team to follow and comply with
3. Communicate all aspects of the project with the client, team members, site and factory team, local jurisdiction, state jurisdiction, and anyone who needs to know.
4. Has extensive history & relationship with subs and jurisdictions to keep the project on task, on budget, and on schedule.
5. Ensures the sub contracting team is licensed, bonded, insured, capable, has capacity & experience and is a good match for the job.....NOT just low bid!
6. Facilitates all permits, approvals, inspections, required with the site and the modular building.
7. Quality Control, at every turn and every aspect.
8. Has the best interest of our clients in mind. Our Project Managers always look out for the client and make sure they get what they have paid for- no short cuts allowed!
9. SAFETY! The project manager and the site manager put safety FIRST. Construction is very dangerous and has many hazards, Our Project and site managers are OSHA 30 certified.
10. Warranty. Since the project manager has been involved with the project since inception, the project manager is great at facilitating any warranty concerns or issues

so now, Do you tackle all of these tasks yourself and purchase from a trailer leasing company, or do you hire a DESIGN-BUILD firm that takes care of you from start to finish, and more!

For more information on Modular Solutions, Ltd team
Call (800) 441-8577 x 1
email: information@moduarsolutionsltd.com
Website: www.modularsolutionsltd.com

Steel Siding For A Modular Building, The Pros & Cons

Steel Siding is great on a modular building with its' low maintenance qualities, however with the new energy codes being adopted across the USA you may want to make some careful considerations regarding this option.

PROS:
1. Steel Siding is low maintenance
2. Steel Siding is pretty "off-the-shelf" for standard product lines & colors
3. Steel Siding is an attractive finish
4. Steel Siding has an extended life cycle
CONS:
1. With the new energy code you have to purchase more expensive special order insulated panels to meet the code in many cases
2. You may have to omit windows and other options to comply
3. If you purchase certain materials you have visible fastening heads
4. Color choices are limited in "reflective" qualities for better efficiency and energy code compliance
5. Other finishes are more cost-effective to purchase and install

All in all the siding industry is a strong choice, we encourage our clients to review the homework before making that purchasing decision.

For more information contact our team at Modular Solutions, Ltd
(800) 441-8577 x 1
email: Information@ModularSolutionsLtd.com
Website: www.ModularSolutionsLtd.com

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Mobile Office, Should I Remodel Or Upgrade?

There reaches a point in the lifecycle of a modular building or mobile office when you have to stop and ask the question should I spend the money to upgrade or should I just start over and get a brand new building? That question has many factors, but here are a few quick tips to help you decide:

1. Did you purchase an "industry standard" budget driven quick fix mobile office or did you invest into a permanent modular building?

The life cycle of a modular building is 50+ years, the life cycle of a mobile office will vary but is generally 20 years.

2. Do you spend more money on utility bills than you did the year prior?

If your utility bill is up, that is frequently a sign your mechanical equipment and efficiency need replacement....is that in your budget?

3. Do you make the space work, or does the space work for you?

If you are making the space work it might be time for an upgrade and update.

4. Are your repair bills higher than a monthly payment would be on a new facility?

5. Is the mobile office outdated in the look, could you use a "FRESH" updated building that reflects who you are as a company?

6. If you are considering an upgrade does your modular company have a "recycle" and "tradeup" program. Helps with the removal costs of your current building.

Modular Solutions, Ltd has a recycle/retrofit program. We are a factory and can bring new life into an old building. We can offer the renovation services to you and your company or you can TRADE IN your old modular and we can re-use anything that is a recycle component. This has kept thousands of pounds of demolition out of the landfills each year.

CONTACT US FOR MORE DETAILS:
(800) 441-8577 X 1

EMAIL: Information@ModularSolutionsLtd.com
Website: www.ModularSolutionsLtd.com

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Mobile Offices And ADA Access

Every mobile office used for standard business practices needs to be ADA accessible. Frequently we are asked what is ADA, and how do we comply?
A typical mobile office sets 30" - 36" high off the ground if you have not excavated the site & made arrangements for a "grade-level" installation.
Ramps & stairs are pretty easy to get in place. We have several vendors across the USA that build "prefabricated" ramps & stairs, taking the guess work out!

We measure the threshold height, and in general you have 1' (one foot) of ramp for ever 1" (one inch) high 1:12 ratio. When a ramp hits 30' long in needs a intermediate landing which can cost money, so the best value is to set your threshold 30" or less.

Our ramp companies will custom design the ramp "pieces" and make sure it complies with federal ADA guidelines and our clients pass all inspections.

TIPS FOR MEETING ADA:
1. Can be build from any material but steel or aluminum are very low maintenance and durable
2. Prefabrication saves money, you don't have to pay for expensive site engineering & ramp design
3. ADA ramps have many intricacies, hire a professional that knows the codes
4. Measure twice, order once! Ensure what your threshold & rise are! Our team will measure & assume the liability & risk for door threshold on ramps & stairs we install.
5. Get a stamped set of plans,sealed by an engineer for local jurisdiction and approval
6. Identify if this is a short term or long term space solution, do you want awnings, decks and other additions to be included?


CONTACT OUR TEAM AT MODULAR SOLUTIONS, LTD FOR MORE INFORMATION:
(800) 441-8577 X 1

EMAIL: Information@ModularSolutionsLtd.com
WEBSITE: WWW.ModularSolutionsLtd.com

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