Skip to content
P1039611-grey wash

About Us

Our Story
Dedicated to innovating, and reframing, how the world builds for over 35 years.
Why Steel Framing
Known as cold-formed or light gauge, steel is a modern framing solution to build fast and built to last.
Careers

Interested in joining a team that’s shaping the future of construction?

applications-mega menu

Applications

Mid-rise Buildings
Our systems support a wide range of medium-rise applications, including residential apartments and commercial buildings.

Modular Construction
Whether it’s offsite construction, volumetric builds, bathroom pods, tiny homes, or ADUs, our systems streamline your modular projects.

Disaster Relief
Provide rapid construction capabilities directly to disaster-affected areas to quickly erect safe, durable structures.
Residential Housing
From single-family homes to multi-unit developments and build-to-rent housing, our solutions provide the versatility you need.

Interior Drywall Framing
Perfect for internal fit-outs, our solutions ensure precision and speed in drywall framing.
Commercial Structures

For retail outlets, office buildings, quick-service restaurants (QSR), or mixed-use developments, we offer tailored systems to meet your needs.


Facades and Curtain Walls

Our solutions combine stunning aesthetics with robust durability, making your project stand out and last.

support-mega menu

Products

Design & Engineering
Steel framing software, offering precise detailing, real-time engineering analysis, and easy tool integration.

Production Management
Gain complete visibility and control of your operations with real-time data, quality control, and capacity management.
Roll Forming Equipment
Whether single-profile or multi-profile, our machines offer you the versatility and world-class reputation you need to deliver your projects.

Building Components
Your one-stop shop for everything you need: connectors, fasteners, and steel coils to get your projects rolling.
menu-nav-support

Support 

Customer Success
Fast-track your steel framing journey with our education, services, and support.
Communities
Your central portal for all business needs. Access support, Nexa, the Knowledge Center, shop, and training videos in one place.
menu-nav-resources

Resources

Blog
Get the latest insights and updates on steel framing, construction trends, and industry news.

Case Studies
See steel framing in action with real-world examples from our customers. 

eBooks
Access guides and in-depth resources on steel framing and its benefits for various construction projects.
Videos
Watch informative videos, including product demos, educational content, and expert interviews.

Events
Join our local steel framing events or come visit us at one of our global tradeshows.

FRAMECAD Connect
Looking for steel frames ? FRAMECAD Connect partners are specialists in designing, manufacturing, and building with the FRAMECAD System.
blog-post-desktop
Andreas KilanderFeb 14, 2024 12:38:12 PM3 min read

Unraveling Modular Construction: Volumetric vs Panelized Approach

Modular construction has emerged as a game-changer in the construction industry, where innovation and efficiency take center stage. Among the various methodologies, the choice between volumetric vs panelized approaches has gained prominence, with each offering unique advantages. This article explores the differences between volumetric and panelized construction for both developers and manufacturers. 

modular construction

Understanding Modular Construction 

Modular construction has redefined the way we build structures. The concept involves creating building components off-site in controlled factory environments, promising efficiency, cost-effectiveness and quality control compared to traditional construction methods. 

 

Volumetric Construction: 

 

Complete Modules 

Volumetric construction entails the creation of fully finished three-dimensional modules or pods off-site.  These modules encompass everything from interior finishes to fixtures, providing a comprehensive solution. 

Transportation and Installation 

The modules are transported to the construction site, where they are lifted into place and assembled into the final structure. This method ensures a speedy and efficient construction process. 

Speed and Efficiency

Volumetric construction, renowned for its rapid pace, involves the simultaneous manufacturing of multiple modules in the factory, with larger, more complete sections of a building being produced off-site.    

This method results in less need for on-site trades, faster assembly and increased cost savings. 

Design Constraints 

While offering efficiency, volumetric construction may pose design constraints due to transportation and lifting considerations. 

bathrooms volumetric panelization


Panelized Construction: 

 

Component Panels 

Panelized construction involves producing individual building components or panels off-site. These panels, including walls, floors and roofs are typically not fully finished providing flexibility for on-site assembly. 

Transportation and On-Site Assembly 

Panels are transported to the construction site, where they are assembled into the final structure. On-site work involves connecting and finishing the assembled panels. 

Flexibility and Customization 

Panelized construction allows for more design flexibility and customization, making it adaptable to various project requirements. The assembly process involves connecting these panels to form the complete building.

Less Transportation Complexity 

Transporting panels is generally less complex than volumetric units, as panels can be stacked on top of each other, providing logistical advantages. 

 

Key Differences: Volumetric vs Panelized

 

Project Complexity 

Volumetric construction is well-suited for projects with simple and repetitive designs, involving the creation of more complete, three-dimensional modules in the factory, including interior finishes. It is also popular for remote final locations, where it might be difficult and expensive for sub-trades to travel to the site. Whereas panelized construction, offering greater design complexity, focuses on fabricating individual panels or sections that may necessitate on-site assembly and finishing. 

Transportation Logistics 

Developers must consider transportation logistics and lifting capabilities when choosing between volumetric and panelized methods. Volumetric modules are transported as larger, self-contained units, while panelized components are transported as individual panels or smaller assemblies, potentially necessitating the shipment of more components to the construction site.

On-Site Customization 

If on-site customization and adaptability are priorities, panelized construction might be the preferred choice. 

 

Summary 

The choice between volumetric vs panelized in the modular construction landscape boils down to project-specific considerations. Developers and manufacturers must align their strategies with project requirements, design complexity, site conditions, transportation considerations, timelines and market trends.  

An alternative strategy involves integrating both volumetric and panelized approaches. For instance, constructing a bathroom as a comprehensive unit off-site (volumetric) and then incorporating it into a structure where pre-made panels assemble the walls (panelized) can offer an optimal solution. 

By understanding the distinctions between volumetric and panelized construction, stakeholders can make informed decisions that optimize efficiency, cost-effectiveness and design flexibility. 

To discuss more about modular construction book a meeting with Andreas Kilander from his calendar below.

avatar

Andreas Kilander

Systems Engineer in NSW, Australia, and modular expert Andreas, originally from Sweden, is known for his leadership and effective collaboration on machine and product development projects. In his spare time, he’s an aeroplane geek.

Related Articles