What? An All Steel Modular Building?

We recently visited a factory on the east coast and they were completely perplexed at the thought of constructing a modular building out of steel.   With architects and developers expecting a 50+ year life cycle from their investment it is time for everyone to see there is a better way to build.

Modular Solutions, Ltd has a product line that has steel floor joists, steel roof rafters, can be set on a slab or the concrete can be poured in the plant and this facility will endure the test of time.

In locations where seismic and wind conditions are extreme this is the perfect solution.  We are seeing higher standards in the new IBC codes and this is an example of a great way to meet or exceed the energy code and structural requirements. 

For more information on all steel modular buildings contact our team:

Modular Solutions, Ltd

Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1 (Sales)

Email: Information@mod-sol.com

Website:  www.modularsolutionsltd.com

Modular Buildings Reimagined

100% Recycle, With Re-imagined Modular Buildings

We are frequently asked "What is the life cycle of that modular building?"  Our answer is easy to stand behind and that is equal to or longer than any site built structure with the same specification.

Some structures have been on a site for 20 years, and it is time to re-imagine the building.   The bones or structural elements of the building remain in great shape and only the aesthetic finishes need an improvement.  

 

The great thing about a modular structure is that you can renovate it in place or you can take it back to the factory for a complete rebuild.  When faced with throwing 20,000 lbs per section into a community landfill or spending some money to revitalize a community which is the better option?

Take a look at some of our re-imagined modular buildings and you decide.

For more information contact our team:
Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone:  800-441-8577 x 1 (Sales)
Email:  Information@mod-sol.com
Website: www.Modularsolutionsltd.com

Commercial Modular Building Siding Choices

Commercial Modular Building Advantages, Life Cycle, & Global Warming Impact Study Released

What siding to choose for my new commercial modular building?

The modular building industry has seen some great siding or exterior finish options over the years, and has also had some options that performed with less than desirable results.  Since this blog is about sharing, and learning together I found a study on line that is a comparison of the various sidings. 

This study reveals life cycle, cost per sq. ft (which will of course vary, but great for consumer budgeting spread sheets), and global warming impact.

There are so many considerations when selecting a final siding.  


Up NW in cold and wet climate a majority of our clients prefer the hardi (cement) lap siding.   In the SW they like stucco.  In the central and midwest parts of the USA they like wood siding or vinyl siding.  In the SE seem that Steel or Aluminum are high selling.  We have to help our clients look at options every day, and there are many factors that contribute to the final choice.

• What do other buildings in the area look like
• How long do we want the building to last & how much budget do we have
• Do you want to make an architectural statement
• What are the severe weather conditions in your area
• Are you concerned with recycle value at the end of the life cycle
• Do you want a sustainable product for your siding finish

Options and Analysis

Cladding Alternatives
Cladding types	Expected Life (years)	cost/sf (material + labor)	cost/sf/yr of expected life	End-of-Life	Practice
stucco	75 (depends on maintenance)	$4.18	$0.075	Landfilled (metal lath recyclable)	standard
brick	100+(typically life of the bldg)	$9.70-$15.30	$0.078	Possible reuse	standard
wood	25-75 (depends on maintenance)	$3.07*-$4.95	$0.080	Biodegradable	standard
fiber-cement	501	$2.31-$2.75	$0.051	Recyclable (currently no programs available)	May require some training (cutting & sealing joints)
aluminum	20-50	$2.27-$2.95	$0.075	Recyclable	standard
steel	40	$2.80	$0.07	Recyclable	standard
vinyl	35	$1.75-$2.06	$0.076	Recyclable (currently no programs available)	standard
hardboard	10-25	$2.03	$0.102	biodegradable	standard
wood-resin/plastic composite	20-30	not available	not available	Difficult to recycle	standard

For a full review of the study follow this LINK.   We will also be glad to help you evaluate your choices and your options.    Call our team or email us with any questions:

Modular Solutions, Ltd

Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1 (Sales)

Email: Information@mod-sol.com

Website: www.modularsolutionsltd.com

Modular Buildings For Public Transportation Systems

Modular Buildings For Public Transportation Facilities

Modular Solutions For Public Transportation Departments

Modular Solutions, Ltd provided a design build transit center for the Lake Havasu City Public Transit Department.

Their team was growing, and needed a permanent space to place the employees and a safe place to collect funds from clients that would come in to purchase tickets.

Modular Solutions, Ltd used permanent alternative construction for this project to make sure the building would blend in with the community, have LEED sustainable qualities, and be built with a 50+ year life cycle.

The employees now have a great locker room, a safe bullet resistant window to collect cash payments, and a facility that brings great savings on monthly operational costs.

For more information on this project 

contact our team:

Modular Solutions, Ltd

Phone:  800-441-8577 x 1

Email:  Information@Mod-sol.com

Website: www.modularsolutionsltd.com

Getting Ready For Monsoon

Monsoon season brings crazy weather and you need to be prepared if you are in a building or if you are getting a building installed. The monsoon weather is every extreme from small dust storms, to nightly lightning shows, to tornadoes, even summer wild fires, sink holes, and flooding heavy rain or hail storms. How do you prepare for it? A few good tips.

1. Make sure if you have shutters or storm windows they are functional and ready to be used.
2. If you are excavating a building "pit" for grade level set on new construction, berm the dirt on the sides, so the water does not fill in the building pad
3. If you are lightning strike zone check your lighting rods- Don't have any "get them installed"
4. High Winds: Look for loose roof nails or covering that is not attached well (ie shingles or rubberized) or patches to make sure they are sealed as well as possible
5. Driving Rains: Look for seal on trims & windows & doors - make sure they are caulked well & ready for the stroms
6. Dust Storms: Sometimes power outages are a result of high dust, make sure if you require power (ie hospital/law enforcement) your back up generators are fueled & maintained
7. Floods: Make sure your flood insurance is up to date

Some acts of nature are out of everyone's control, but looking ahead to stave off small or minor inconveniences you can extend the life cycle of your building against the ferocious monsoon season season storms.

For more great information on modular construction contact our team:
Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577 x 1 Sales
Email: Information@mod-sol.com
website: www.modularsolutionsltd.com

Summer AC, Time For A Tune Up Six Great Tips

When temperatures in some climates hit 115 regularly, or humidity reaches over 80% regularly it is time to make sure the AC units on your modular buildings are working well.
Some companies set aside maintenance funds to recharge their AC units each summer, other companies self perform routine summer performance checks.

What should you check to make sure you are getting the best operational costs?

1. Always keep filters clean, change monthly for best performance, and invest in a roof top mechanical unit with high SEER rating.
2. Set your programmable thermostats and watch them. Make sure they are not turning on and off too quickly this is called "cycling" and it puts alot of wear & tear on your units. Also if you have summer hours adjust your thermostat.
3. Put your fan on manual over ride, and make sure the thermostat is working. Watch it turn off & on as you manually control your unit.
4. Remote control applications from a mobile phone are becoming more popular on small commercial buildings. This is a great way to control you AC if you will be out of the office all day, and save some money on it running.
5. Perform a visual inspection of the mechanical units. Make sure they are not clanking, or dripping where they should not drip, look at the overflow lines make sure the main condensate line is not clogged up.
6. If you have the money hire a maintenance team to come in & check the motor, clean the coils, and other elements that are best left to a professional AC team to extend the life cycle of your mechanical equipment.

These are just a few tips, you want your mechanical units to last longer and cost less to operate. Seasonal maintenance is key to the success of this.

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

Tips To Control The Thermostat Wars In A Modular Building-Five Great Tips

Modular buildings have great solutions for avoiding thermostat wars!

At Modular Solutions, Ltd we offer ideas in the preconstruction phase, so that if you are considering a modular structure you can make an educated choice. These tips will extend the life cycle of your HVAC equipment and will help with thermostat wars.

What does industry standard mean?
In most cases, if your specification sheet says industry standard or does not specify you will get wall mounted mechanical units, (some companies do not even provide return air duct), and you get one duct run per each modular section, with one thermostat per modular section. While this is a quick way to build in the factory this is not really an efficient design for a mixed used facility.

Tip 1: ZONES
You can still get the affordable wall mounted mechanical units (suggest you ask for fully ducted supply & return air ducts), but ask for "zones". Zones help the air flow to areas that are related, and keep a common area with its' own supply. For example a run of offices may have their own thermostat, while an open training room that spans several modular sections may have its' own zone.

Tip 2: TYPE OF UNITS
For a few dollars more you can look at getting a split system or package units that go on the roof or ground that have high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating (SEER) ratings. The SEER rating system was adopted for residential construction, but has translated into commercial construction since it is so highly recognized. By choosing a more efficient brand and type of HVAC system your design is now customized to meet your space planning goals and will cost less to operate. Who wouldn't' want a lower monthly utility bill?

Tip 3: LIFE CYCLE OF UNITS
Mechanical units reach a point where they cost more to operate than just giving in and exchanging for new units. This is called life cycle. If your mechanical units are having maintenance costs and service calls regularly, it may be time to consider replacing them with new units. While this can be an expensive capital outlay, you will see dramatic energy cost savings.

Tip 4: LOCK BOXES
Sometimes no matter how well your team has designed the HVAC system, some people are just hot or cold. If you have a lockbox on the thermostat equipment only specified staff will be able to make adjustments if required.

Tip 5: PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTATS
Thermostats are just a measuring device, and just cycle on or off based on what they measure the temperature at. Part of having an efficient design is to use programmable thermostats. You can do great pre-planning by starting the heat or cool cycle a little early. When employees start arriving they walk into a climate controlled environment. Don't be afraid to use the manual override. If you see there is a storm coming and let the building warm over night and keep a steady heat. Using your thermostats wisely extends the life cycle of your HVAC equipment.

For more information on how to get the perfect design-build modular building 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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Easy Sustainable Options For Your Modular Building

A Common question we are asked is can I get a modular building that will be more "green", and that is better for the environment. There are lots of little things you can incorporate into your modular building design that is better for the environment, green, reduces carbon footprint, and that will make a difference.

1. Design you building with 2 x 6 wall studs: Increase insulation, reduce energy consumption
2. Use a high efficiency mechanical system: Modular buildings can have more efficient units with higher seasonal energy efficient ratings (SEER)that will reduce the cost to cool you modular building.
3. Modular Building Placement: General common sense of placing windows and door facings when putting the modular building on the site will reduce heat conductivity
4. Sustainable Floor Covering: Choose a floor covering made from recycled bottles or bamboo. Make a conscience choice to select a product proven to be reducing carbon footprint
5. Use an alternative energy system (ie windmill or solar power) for energy generation to have a net zero design
6. The very essence of modular is "green"- A modular building is 100% recyclable and can be used at a new location any time during its life cycle or rebuilt to have a new life cycle

For more tips and hints on how to build a more sustainable modular building contact our team at

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

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Fun Exterior Finishes For Commercial Modular Buildings

Modular buildings are traditionally finished with "wood" siding or "cement-panel" siding, because they are a great value option. The materials are purchased on a bulk quantity basis, and are shelf ready; meaning you can get them anywhere, anytime.

There are however some really fun and different exterior finishes available if you have the funds for your permanent modular building or if you just really want to make a statement with your temporary modular sales office or facility. Let your imagination go wild and explore a combination of textures and finishes to have an architectural wonder when your new modular facililty is completed.

What is considered the "norm" in certain parts of the USA, is considered unattractive or unfit for other parts of the USA. For example in the dry southwest climates you see a huge percentage of modular buildings being finished with a stucco exterior;In the mid west steel siding if very popular;In the northeast brick veneers are common place. Some of the choices are impacted by weather, others are impacted by historical architectural elements, and still others are a matter of controlling life cycle costing.

Choosing an exterior finish for your new modular building is limitless, as long as you choose an experienced modular building manufacturer that understands there are choices, and has the experience to successfully complete those finishes for your organization.

For more information 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

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Six Spring Maintenance Tips For Your Modular Building

When spring rolls around people start to think about what to clean, what to store, what to throw away, and also modular building maintenance. Our team gets lots of questions about maintenance cycles on modular buildings. Here are six tips of FAQ's on modular building maintenance for the spring season.

1. Fresh coat of paint. If your building is has wood or cement siding it may be time for a caulk & paint job. This keeps your building trims from buckling and value and curb appeal to your modular building.
2. Check all your window and door seals. As you switch from heating to air conditioning mode you don't want to spend any extra money on air escaping from your building. Keep all your seal tight and test them for function. If they stick or of they are worn replace them.
3. Get a maintenance test on your mechanical unit before you switch to A/C mode. This test will help avoid burnouts or excessive utility bills due to mechanical units not functioning well
4. Change your A/c filters & put a reminder schedule on the wall. Each month, same time (ie 3rd Monday of each month) change those filters and extend the life cycle of your modular building mechanical units.
5. Clean all the floor covering. Doing an extensive clean of your tiles/carpet/linoleum will brighten the appearance of your modular building, and keep it fresh and new. This should also extend the life cycle of your floor covering.
6. Do a walk about. Look around for any maintenance items that are obvious (like shingles that may have blown off in a winter storm, or window trim that broke off, or cracks in the drywall) and fix them. Most modular buildings that look older than they are look that way because of lack of simple maintenance items. A small problem can turn into a large one if you don't take timely action.

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

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HUD Modular Home VS. IRC, What Is The Difference?

The manufactured housing industry uses terminology that intermingles and can become diluted or murky if you are not experienced in the acronyms used. Building codes are what determines the type of modular home you will be purchasing, and the method of approval and structural calculations are what makes the difference. Most of the time the difference between a HUD and an IRC modular home are the structural elements that you never see, but in the long run are thankful they were included.

HUD (US Dept of Housing & Urban Development) is a government agency that set up a minimum set of building standards to unify manufactured housing across the US. This code is varied depending on climate zone, but mostly identical. Local states and municipalities can require stiffer codes or compliance but HUD building standards are what most manufactured housing plants conform to, with the option to construct IRC homes for clients that want or need that as an option.

IRC (International Residential Code) is the code many municipal agencies have adopted and the more rigorous building standard. An IRC modular home is usually identified as a "MODULAR" and a HUD home is usually identified as a "MANUFACTURED HOME". An IRC home will always be more expensive, but has a longer life cycle for your new home.
For more information consult our team at Modular Solutions, Ltd
Phone: 800-441-8577
EMAIL: INFORMATION@MODULARSOLUTIONSLTD.COM
WEBSITE: WWW.MODULARSOLUTIONSLTD.COM

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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 & Modern Technology

Many clients ask can I integrate modern technology into my new modular building. Integration of technology is simple when it is incorporated into the design during the preconstruction phase.

Tips for getting new technology integration:
1. Plan ahead for "future" growth. Always assume your organization will grow and you will need to add more communication stations, more phone lines, etc.
2. Don't just integrate technology into your new modular building based on lowest price. Buying last years technology, will allow you to hobble along, but will not streamline productivity
3. If you have an existing modular building and you are updating your technology, bring the design team and preconstruction team on board to ensure you get proper grounding and fire proofing and safety in place as required

Any technology you want to incorporate into a modular building including military and secured facilities has been utilized. Facilitating your current and future goals for technology implementation is simply a matter of communicating your wants and needs and then having the design team facilitate those goals into a reality.




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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Modular Multi-Story Designs

Sometimes land is so expensive, the only way to build is UP! Multi-story modular buildings are becoming more and more popular with clients needing modular classroom space and modular office space.

Five things to look for in a modular multi-story design:
1. Experience- Always look for a vendor such as Modular Solutions, ltd that has not only designed, but fabricated and installed a modular multi-story building.
2. Structural Integrity- Some companies are building wood frame multi-story structures, which is a choice- but is it the best choice. Explore your options
3. Practicality- Sometimes it is not really a cost advantage to take a very small structure to two stories. While it can certainly be designed and the space can be constructed, the feasibility of the total project size does not generate a cost-effective modular solution

4. Elevator & Stairs- An elevator is one of the main cost factors in a modular multi-story building. Consideration for location of egress and stairs and even using a "modular" elevator are all things to incorporate into your modular multi-story project. Correctly designing stairs & landings allow a decorative and creative embellishments to a project. Incorrect design can be a safety hazard, make sure you talk through this aspect.

5. Final Finishes- When you have a multi-story modular facility safety precautions such as guard rails, and fire safety have to be incorporated into the design. Decide how much of your facility you want with exterior walkways and how much is all indoors. The cost of roof covering vs. railings and covered walkways.






For more information on multi-story modular construction call our preconstruction team at
Modular Solutions, Ltd Toll Free (800) 441-8577 x 1
email: information@modularsolutionsltd.com
website: www.modularsolutionsltd.com

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What is the best roof covering for my modular building?

Change of seasons always have clients thinking about roof covering. When you are making an investment into the lifecycle of your new modular building, you want to make an educated choice on all structural components. One of the most highly asked questions we hear is "what type of roof covering should I get?" An industry typical response is "we sell shingles or epdm"......we hope you understand that answer is not always the best solution. Take time to explore the options and understand you do have choices, and each building will have a unique solution.

Our team has samples, cut sheets, references, testimonials from various types of roof coverings, and will help you guide through those decisions based on your location, type of use, wind and snow loads and return on investment with life cycle costing. One of the most expensive investments you will make is the roofing system and you want to make sure you have been informed and made a good decision. Our design team provides free consultations and estimates. Contact us at (800) 441-8577 x 8202 or information@modularsolutionsltd.com or visit our web site www.modularsolutionsltd.com