Modular Buildings Rescue Aging Schools

In Baltimore, as in many other cities across the nation, public school buildings are old, out of date and in poor condition. There are new and used modular school buildings for sale, however, that can stretch tight city budgets further, help school districts keep pace with fluctuating enrollments, and build entire campuses that are well-equipped technologically and environmentally sustainable.

Student enrollment numbers ebb and flow at every school. When a sudden need for more space arises, it’s common for schools to overload classrooms to meet the need. When enrollment declines, classrooms, and often entire schools, sit empty and begin to deteriorate.

Exacerbating the problem is the fact that conventional “stick-built” construction is time-consuming and expensive. Poor weather causes construction delays and cost overruns. And noise, dust and debris on the campus can be very disruptive.  There’s rarely a good time to build.

Advantages of Modular Classrooms

Have you seen what modern modular buildings can do for your school? Check out the award-winning modular classrooms and other projects designed by Modular Genius, a builder that specializes in design-to-occupancy modular construction across the nation, to see what can be accomplished.

• Modular classrooms and entire campuses can be designed and delivered 40% to 50% faster than conventional buildings, while abiding by the same construction codes and using the same building materials as site-built structures. Preparation of the building site is coordinated with the manufacture of modules in the factory, which speeds up completion of the project. Many modular building projects can be manufactured and installed in less than 90 days.

• New modular buildings are typically 20% less expensive than brick-and-mortar buildings. One reason for this is the efficient in-plant manufacturing process that keeps labor costs low. Other reasons are the tight controls over inventory in the factory and protection from moisture and weather damage, all resulting in less material waste. About 80% of the pre-wiring and rough plumbing is done in the factory, reducing the need for multiple subcontractors on the jobsite (and more expense).

• For even greater savings and faster completion, consider used modular classrooms. Modular builders usually have certified used modular buildings in stock in excellent condition and priced for substantial savings. They typically come in square footage of 1,000 to 20,000+ square feet with a variety of exterior options, roofing materials, and interior wall and floor finishes. You can often ask for modifications to the floor plans, change the location of doors and windows, and add ADA-compliant ramps and steps.

• Another important feature of modular buildings is their flexibility.  They can stand alone or be put together to create larger structures. They can also be designed as multi-story structures in excess of 100,000 SF, complete with elevators.  Add on modules when necessary or move them to another location, an option that’s not available with traditional stick-built structures.

• Modular classrooms are environmentally friendly. They are durable, fire-resistant, mold-resistant and LEED-certified. School administrators can choose energy-efficient utilities, eco-friendly insulation, no-VOC or low-VOC interior wall and floor treatments, efficient automatic sensors for lights and heating systems, and other green elements.

The uses for modular buildings are infinite. They’re ideal for classrooms, dormitories, science labs, libraries, media centers, gymnasiums, daycare centers and bookstores. In the corporate arena, they are used for office buildings, banks, employee training centers, medical and dental offices, visitor centers and more.

To improve student achievement and teacher retention in Baltimore without breaking the bank, consider new and used modular buildings that are for sale throughout Maryland. Pre-owned modular classrooms are usually available for immediate delivery from Modular Genius and other companies. Or get started on a custom campus design.