Project Steps
To ensure Rapid deployment, each project comprises of seven steps from concept to completion: Design, Engineering, Permits & Approvals, Site Development, Plant Fabrication, Transportation, and Installation. For a more in-depth understanding of each step, refer to the detailed explanations provided in the following breakdown.
01
Design
During the design phase of the modular building process, a comprehensive description of the building is developed, typically through detailed plans and specifications. This stage involves a thorough consultation with a project manager, gathering all necessary information to formulate the building plan.
02
Engineering
Each building design undergoes a thorough engineering review by the Direct Housing Solutions engineering department. Like site-built structures, modular buildings are subject to a range of national, state, and local building codes, ensuring compliance with safety and performance standards. State-level building codes may be supplemented or modified by additional local requirements, such as the High-Velocity Hurricane Zone code adopted by numerous coastal counties.
03
Permits & Approvals
Construction permits, required in most jurisdictions for new construction or major renovations, are the responsibility of the building owner. Typically, the general contractor acts as the authorized representative to obtain these permits. However, it's crucial for the building owner to confirm that all necessary permits are secured to avoid fines, penalties, or even demolition of unauthorized construction.
04
Site Development
Modular construction offers the advantage of concurrent site development and building foundation preparation while modules are being fabricated at the manufacturing facility and transported to the job site. Unlike traditional site-built construction, where these processes occur sequentially, modular construction streamlines efficiency by allowing them to happen simultaneously.
05
Fabrication
Our modular buildings begin with a welded steel frame crafted in our steel workshop. Then, on the main factory line, the sub-floor is insulated and floor decking is assembled atop the steel frame. Framed wall sections, truss roof assembly, and interior finishes are added as the module progresses. Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing services are installed, along with insulation. Exterior finishes and trim are applied before transportation. Throughout construction, a third-party inspection agency ensures compliance with building codes.
06
Transportation
Transportation methods to the job site are determined by the project scope and module size. For expansive projects like a man camp, consisting of numerous modules, delivery is staged in phases. This approach allows the general contractor to prepare and install the modules in a logical sequence.
07
Installation
A DHS-appointed general contractor, often specializing in modular construction, manages module installation, on-site finishing, and utility connections.
The choice of building foundation dictates the installation method. Permanent, semi-permanent, and on-grade foundations necessitate crane-assisted module setting. Raised foundations, typical for temporary structures, facilitate module placement using straightforward mechanical means.
After module placement, final interior and exterior finishing begins, including electrical and mechanical system interconnections, stairs, ramps, skirting, siding, trim, and utility connections.