Is Pre - Fabrication becoming an acceptable construction method for residential construction: A study of relationship to time cost, and quality?

Table of contents

CHAPTER1: INTRODUCTION3

1.1.Introduction3

1.2.Background of the study/organization4

1.3.Problem statement5

1.4.Research Questions6

1.5.Aims and objectives of the study6

1.6.Rationale of the study7

1.7.Structure of the study8

CHAPTER1: INTRODUCTION

Introduction

Prefabrication is regarded as the process of manufacturing the products and elements and is occurred at a specialized place in which different element or the components are combined to together in order to develop in to a new product or the final installation Caroline, 2012, pp.167). Any component that is manufactured offsite and is not a complete system can be considered to be prefabricated. Pre-fabrication is a method adapted from the automotive industry, which involves breaking down the traditional construction method (Kjeldsen, 1988, pp.43). The adaptability of pre-fabricated construction means a more productive and sustainable construction process, with minimal disruption to project planning, and build ability. The concept reduces the need for high volumes of skilled personnel maximising productivity, and quality of construction (Caldas, et.al, 2006, pp.741). The reduction of waste is also implemented into the production process, providing sustainability and reduced production cost. The method is highly adaptable which can be adapted to aid even the traditional methods of construction, such as site services allowing for flexibility in procurement processes and eliminating associated risks (Heng, et.al, 2003, pp. 313). This process also involves the standardization of materials, components and elements used in the process of prefabrication.

Since the historical past the 21st century has seen a positive interest back into the housing, and building market. The industry seems to have great interest in the method of construction, with many companies now building a client base in the UK housing market (Emcor, 2012).

Background of the study/organization

In the past, there have been many proponents regarding the concept of prefabrication in the construction industry. Many efforts has been put by the architects, designers and other actors in the construction industry in order to standardize the process of prefabrication for the construction of residential as well as commercial purposes. In the past, architects and the designer have compared the houses to other standard objects like bicycles, automotives, ships etc. Lethaby in 1911, explained that the residence and the houses should be designed making it as efficient as a bicycle. Moreover, many other architects like Walter Groupis and Le Corbusier also mentioned few comparisons like with ship and automobiles respectively (Heng, et.al, 2003, pp. 315).

The process of prefabrication in the construction industry is being followed by the concept of standardization in many building and is therefore opposed by many designers as it imposes that it kills the creativity in design and innovation (Robinson, 1988, pp. 12). But on the other hand there are many other factors that are supported by the process of prefabrication in construction especially in the residential buildings.

Prefabrication refers to different concepts in construction industry that is, onsite fabrication and off-site prefabrication. In the past it has been found by the survey results that there is a strong ...