What Is a Panelised Construction System?
A panelised construction system is a modern method of building where large, flat components called panels, are manufactured off-site in a factory and then transported to site for assembly. These panels typically form the walls, floors, and roofs of a building and are designed to be self-supporting once installed.
Instead of building everything brick by brick on-site, panelised systems allow much of the work to be completed in controlled factory conditions. This leads to
- Faster build times
- Consistent quality
- Reduced waste, and
- Improved energy performance – all key advantages in Ireland’s current housing environment.
Panelised construction falls under Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and is increasingly used for houses, apartments, extensions, and modular-style developments across Ireland.
How Does Panelised Construction Work?
In simple terms, panelised construction follows this process:
- DESIGN & ENGINEERING
The building is fully designed upfront, including structural calculations, insulation values, and service routes.
2. FACTORY MANUFACTURING
Wall, floor, and roof panels are produced in a factory using timber, steel, or concrete systems. Many panels already include:
- Insulation
- Vapour barriers
- Windows and doors
- External cladding or internal linings
3. TRANSPORT TO SITE
Finished panels are delivered to the site on lorries.
4. ON-SITE ASSEMBLY
Panels are craned into place and fixed together to form the building’s structure, often weather-tight within days.
5. FINAL WORKS
Services, finishes, and fittings are completed, usually far quicker than with traditional block construction.
What Are Panelised Components?
Panelised systems use flat, factory-made units, which may include:
- External and internal wall panels
- Floor panels
- Roof panels
- Insulation and airtightness layers
- Pre-installed windows and doors
- External cladding and roofing elements
The level of completion varies by system, some panels arrive “open”, while others are highly finished.
Types of Panelised Construction Systems in Ireland
Several panelised systems are commonly used in Ireland, each with different strengths.
1. Timber Frame Panel Systems
Timber frame is the most widely used panelised system in Ireland, particularly for one-off houses and housing estates. Timber studs form the structural frame, with sheathing boards, insulation, and membranes added in the factory
PROS
- Fast on-site build time
- Excellent energy efficiency
- Renewable, low-carbon material
- Widely accepted by Irish lenders and insurers
CONS
- Requires good moisture detailing
- Perceived (but often outdated) concerns about durability
- Quality depends heavily on manufacturer’s standards
2. Light Gauge Steel Frame (LGSF)
Light Gauge Steel Frame systems use cold-formed steel panels instead of timber. Thin steel sections are engineered into wall and floor panels, offering high strength with minimal material.
PROS
- High structural precision
- Non-combustible material
- Resistant to rot, mould, and pests
- Ideal for apartments and multi-storey buildings
CONS
- Higher material cost than timber
- Requires specialist installers
- Thermal detailing must be carefully designed to prevent heat loss and condensation
3. Precast Concrete Panel Systems
Precast concrete panels are commonly used in apartments, social housing, and large-scale developments. Concrete wall or floor panels are cast in factories and craned into position on-site.
PROS
- Excellent durability and lifespan
- Strong acoustic and fire performance
- Suitable for high-density housing
- Low maintenance over time
CONS
- Heavier panels require cranes and good site access
- Higher embodied carbon
- Less flexibility for late design changes
4. Structurally Insulated Panels (SIPs)
SIPs consist of an insulating core sandwiched between two structural boards. Panels act as both structure and insulation, creating a very airtight building envelope.
PROS
- Outstanding thermal performance
- Very fast installation
- Reduced cold bridging
- Ideal for low-energy homes
CONS
- Higher upfront cost
- Requires experienced designers
- Services must be carefully planned in advance
5. Cross Laminated Timber (CLT)
CLT uses layers of timber glued together at right angles to create strong structural panels. Large solid timber panels form walls, floors, and roofs, often left exposed internally.
PROS
- High structural strength
- Excellent sustainability credentials
- Fast construction
- Attractive internal finish
CONS
- Higher cost than standard timber frame
- Very limited uptake in Ireland
- Requires specialist engineering and fire design
Panelised Construction vs Traditional Block Build
| Feature | Panelised Construction | Traditional Block |
|---|---|---|
| Build Speed | Faster | Slower |
| Quality Control | Factory-controlled | Weather-dependent |
| Energy Performance | High | Variable |
| On-site Labour | Reduced | Labour-intensive |
| Design Flexibility | Fixed early | More flexible mid-build |
| Waste | Lower | Higher |
Advantages of Panelised Construction in Ireland
Panelised systems offer several benefits that align closely with Ireland’s housing needs:
- Construction times reduced by up to 50%
- Better energy ratings – helping meet Part L and NZEB standards
- Predictable costs due to early design finalisation
- Less weather disruption during construction
- Improved quality consistency
These benefits make panelised construction particularly attractive for:
- First-time buyers
- Affordable housing schemes
- Self-builders
- Local authority and cost-rental projects
Things to Consider Before Choosing a Panelised System.
While panelised construction has many advantages, there are important considerations:
- Design Freeze is Critical
Changes after panels are manufactured can be expensive or impossible.
2. Logistics Matter
Site access must allow for large deliveries and crane lifts.
3. Mortgage and Insurance Acceptance
While improving rapidly, some systems still require further clarification from lenders.
4. Manufacturer Quality Varies
Not all panel systems are equal, because certification, testing, and track records matter. Make sure to do your research or seek advice from an expert before committing to any type of panelised construction.
