Modern Methods of Construction

By Fraser Brown at Benchmark.

Unitising or Off-site - no matter what it's called, it is definitely the quickest and safest way to build. The UK is quickly falling behind the rest of Europe where this is considered. Why? I think this is due to the lack of awareness by Architects, Contractors, Installers, and most of all the Client. I'll give you one good reason why each of you should consider using this method. Architects can benefit from having the easier role, the Subcontractor takes the design ropes earlier in the process, avoiding unnecessary confusion usually at a later stage and offers simple interface solutions on the drawings. Contractors need to consider this method of build more than anyone else. Yes, you will probably pay slightly more for the system, but just think, no scaffolding, earlier entry for the busy M&E chaps, and better chances of completing the façade on time! Also smaller overheads on site as there are less people to worry about. A massive bonus is greatly reducing the number of injuries or accidents on site, music to HQ's ears!  The Installers hold the ace card! They must get their orders early, draw fast, please the Architects and have at least 50% of the wall system complete before the frame is ready! Sounds a lot, but once they are in this position the installation goes like lightening, as well as being super safe with the envelope, all in their control. The Client, need I say more than I already have - all the above are benefits to them and dare I suggest early entry for the tenant - now that would be a good idea!

All these benefits around speed also help with the environmental argument around less carbon used during the build. Use an energy efficient, high performance product for the build, and you get a low carbon end-result with little waste to deal with!

The industry as a whole needs to get its head around solutions for designing, building, promoting and selling these types of systems. RIBA is in favour of it and training in this approach counts towards CPD.  

As I said, this solution benefits all and high quality systems do exist.  One example is at Kingspan Benchmark.  We can provide the training, systems and installers to do this. If you want to know more about this approach in general or the Kingspan Benchmark solutions then speak to us. We also offer a newly-approved RIBA CPD, so please contact us if you're interested in a seminar.