As predicted last year, the global market for modular construction has been on an upward trajectory. Experts forecast that growth will continue through 2028, a trend that makes sense considering current market conditions. Modular construction not only makes it possible to expedite the process of designing and assembling building systems, but it also offers unique solutions to labor shortages and supply chain issues that are predicted to linger.

Because bathrooms are a repeated element throughout a building, we’ve seen firsthand how designers and contractors are turning to prefabricated, modular bathroom pods for the above benefits and to stay on track in a time when predictability seems near impossible. While the advantages of modular construction drive its increasing popularity, they also imply future construction trends.

Below are some developments we’re anticipating for 2022 and how modular construction methods can meet the moment and benefit workers, contractors, and clients in the process.

MORE DEVELOPERS WILL TURN TO ALTERNATIVE METHODS TO COMBAT SHIPPING CHALLENGES
Ideally, just-in-time shipping streamlines construction, but as we have seen over the past few years, supply chain issues can disrupt this approach. Stalled shipments can create congested job sites and compound delays, affecting the bottom line. For example, if a material is delivered late, its arrival might coincide with another material’s. Crews would then have to scramble to move materials to accommodate the late shipment. Delays further impact construction by altering when skilled trades, like plumbers and electricians, can do their work.

To combat ongoing shipping challenges, more developers and contractors will turn to alternative construction methods to keep materials and projects moving. Modular bathrooms, for example, can be built offsite as the building area is being prepared, accelerating a job’s timeline. Then, when the site is ready, these pods can be delivered and installed at just the right moment. Secondly, because parallel construction makes it possible to secure materials prior to weathering in, alternative methods can help simplify logistics and provide more control over volatile market conditions.

LABOR SHORTAGES WILL CONTINUE
Contractors across the nation are having difficulty finding skilled workers. With more people retiring from construction and fewer people entering the industry, it will remain key to find ways to replenish the workforce. We at SurePods know that building a better future starts with people. Because prefabrication offers consistency, predictability, and safety, it is the perfect entry point for those new to the trade.

SUSTAINABILITY WILL REMAIN A FOCUS
Sustainability is increasingly becoming an industry standard. Modular construction is an attractive solution as the process is typically more material and waste-conscious than conventional methods. For instance, prefabricated modular bathrooms use recycled steel and wallboard and comply with strict quality standards from production through installation. These standards mean a long-lasting product with fewer repairs and replacements over its lifetime.

Further, automated processes translate to more precise products and fewer mistakes, resulting in less material and energy waste due to rebuilds.

EVEN WITH THE ABOVE CONSTRAINTS, MORE DEVELOPERS WILL SPECIFY CUSTOM BUILDS
Advances in modular construction have given designers more freedom to customize their projects while still enjoying all the benefits of prefabricated construction, debunking the myth that repeatable units mean cookie-cutter designs. Because our current technology allows us to prefabricate better than ever, we can accommodate more design flexibility, solving site-specific issues upfront. This includes creating tailor-made, enterprise-wide solutions that can be used for multiple projects.

MODULAR PRESENT TOMORROW'S SOLUTIONS TODAY
These are just a few of the things we see driving the construction industry in 2022. Whether the need is for a leaner design or a method for mitigating material and labor shortages, modular bathroom pods are an easy first step into prefabricated construction. If you’re a contractor or developer ready to learn how prefabrication can benefit your project, let's connect.