Why More Schools Are Choosing Modular

By Triumph Modular

Posted on September 17, 2013

project-carroll-school-extThe methods used to construct a modular school building may be new to a percentage of the population but modular school buildings have been built for decades.
As more and more examples of prefabricated construction are documented in the media, the general public is now asking more questions about modular construction. A popular area of focus is its relationship with the education system.
Here are some of the benefits of using modular building methods in schools and other educational institutions:
 

School Building Adaptability

A modular classroom can be constructed in up to 20% less time than a traditional construction project. When schools are in need of extra space they can typically have a space built for them in a matter of weeks. Many institutions order new space during the summer months and have the extra space needed by September which eliminates the issue of crowded classrooms.

Our Story: The Newman Elementary school in Needham, Massachusetts is a great example of a large-scale temporary modular classroom space. needham-modular-complexThis relocatable modular space is over 36,000 square feet and consists of 38 modules. This flexible space can be easily modified and was made with several green features. In fact, this building meets the Massachusetts “Stretch Energy Code“. One of the great features of this facility is the large double insulated argon windows which allow for natural light, slow unwanted heat transfer, and reduce the need for excess electric light and air conditioning.

School Building Materials

The use of modular building tactics results in 10%-20% fewer materials used versus the amount used on a typical site-built project. Safer and healthier building materials can be, and in many cases are incorporated in modular classrooms in order to provide a safe learning environment. Lexington-high-classroom-1024x683

Our Story: The Triumph team was able to create the nation’s first high-performing relocatable classroom. The Carroll School LEED certified construction project delivered better air quality to students, natural lighting, and enhanced acoustics while being sensitive to energy consumption. Understanding the importance of creating functional and safe modular school buildings will always be a priority of Triumph Modular.

School Growth & Accommodation

Although all buildings and schools can be modified and built upon, modular classrooms are designed to be easily adaptable. This means that if more space is required of your school, a new addition can be easily obtained. In many cases, a new modular addition can be added in a matter of weeks.

westfield-state-college-temporary-exteriorOur Story: 28 modules were added to the Westfield  State College campus to build what is known as “Mod Hall“. In 2009 this project was completed with a matching facade of the existing campus building. This 11-week temporary modular school addition was implemented as a turn-key solution in the wake of rising student populations.

Temporary vs Permanent Modular

Over the years there have been concerns regarding the life span of modular buildings. Confusing temporary modular buildings with permanent modular buildings can often sway a purchaser’s decision but we need to understand the differences.

harvard-yard-childcare-center

Our “Temporary” Story: A 5,700 square foot daycare facility was installed in 6 weeks on the campus of Harvard University.

This building was built with sustainable green materials like solar tube skylights and a white rubber roof that reflects solar heat. This temporary relocatable school has a 50-year lifespan and allowed the University to complete renovations on its permanent daycare center in the meantime. As a side note, this modular building was re-purposed in its entirety at Tufts University right down the road and is still in use at that location.

Our “Permanent” Story: The North Andover Early Childcare Center is a custom modular school that was built in June of 2009 and was tailored to Children United by Special Abilities. The total construction time of this project was only six months which is exceptional for a 13,000 square foot facility. This permanent structure was uniquely designed to fit the needs of the students and faculty and provides a healthy, functional, and safe environment for all who use the space.

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With the notion of modular school buildings becoming more apparent in mainstream news it is important to understand that this is not a new process, but rather a process that continues to improve. Modular classrooms are able to deliver safe learning environments in less time and for less cost. The use of modular building methods for educational organizations will continue to increase as more success stories are publicly known. The ability to deliver great classroom space in a fraction of the time will also continue to be a priority for schools and further increase the growth of the modular construction marketplace.
Categories:
Education
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Triumph Team

Triumph Modular is a leader in the Northeast Region for leasing mobile offices, modular buildings, and storage containers. As an innovator in the modular industry, we provide high-quality temporary and permanent buildings equipped with energy-efficient elements and options to make your space as turnkey as possible. With more than 40 years of experience, Triumph Modular has worked in a multitude of industries delivering quality products, keeping customer relationships at the heart of our operations.

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