Avoid These Common Mistakes in Portable Classrooms

Nearly 40% of the contractors surveyed said that prefab and modular construction is a growing part of their companies as well as part of their future strategic construction initiatives. That being said, they do have a different set of needs than traditional construction buildings. This is especially the case with modular classrooms, which have the intent to be occupied by a large number of students. Here are just a few common mistakes in portable classrooms you should avoid before investing in finished portable buildings for classrooms.

Common Mistakes in Portable Classrooms:

Not Accommodating For Noise

With a controlled manufacturing environment, modular construction has fewer weather delays or damage than traditional construction. Project completion is 40% faster. However, some completed structures may require ways for students and staff to accommodate for excess noise. This noise may be a result of generators and other modular equipment. Ask your building company if this will be an issue, and if so, what the best solution may be.

Inaccurately Estimating Number of Students

It’s no fun to cram too many students into a classroom that’s simply too small, and the same is true in the case of modular construction. Make sure you have a rough estimate as to how many students are to fit comfortably in a modular classroom. It’s always better to build a classroom that’s slightly bigger than you need it to accommodate for growth. A classroom that’s too crowded can impede the learning process more than you think.

Not Exploring Multiple Builders

Finally, it’s a good idea to explore multiple builders once you’ve made the decision to choose modular construction. Gather estimates from each builder and compare project timelines, materials, and overall quality before making a decision. It also helps to check online for company reviews.

There’s no denying the benefits that come with finished portable buildings: The Northwest Portable Classroom Project conducted by Washington State University in 2003 found that portables built to the 1993 code were 44% more energy efficient than models built 25 years prior. Further, portables built to 2000 codes are 20% more energy efficient than the 1993 models. While modular classrooms make logical sense in many situations, it’s important to select and use them properly. For more information about finished portable buildings for sale, contact ABS.