A volumetric system of construction is a building method where large, fully finished sections of a building are made in a factory and then transported to the site to be assembled.
These sections are called modules. Each module is usually a complete, enclosed space that includes floors, walls, ceilings, insulation, wiring, plumbing, windows, and sometimes even kitchens or bathrooms.
Once delivered to the site, the modules are stacked or joined together to form a complete building.
Volumetric construction is a type of modular construction, but not all modular buildings are volumetric.
How Volumetric Construction Works (Step by Step)
- Design is Finalised early
Floor plans, layouts, and finishes are agreed upfront.
2. Modules are built off-site
Construction happens in a controlled factory environment.
3. Groundworks happen at the same time
Foundations and services are prepared on-site while modules are built.
4. Modules are delivered to site
Large crane lifts place modules into position.
5. Final connections are made
Services are connected and external finishes completed.
In many cases, the building is weathertight within days of delivery.
Volumetric Construction VS Modular/Panelised Construction?
Is volumetric the same as modular?
Not exactly.
- All volumetric construction is modular
- Not all modular construction is volumetric
The key difference is that volumetric modules are fully enclosed, meaning:
- One floor
- Four walls
- One ceiling or One Floor
Other modular systems may use:
- Open-sided modules
- Panelised walls
- Hybrid systems
Common Uses of Volumetric Construction.
Volumetric systems are widely used for:
- Apartment blocks
- Student accommodation
- Hotels
- Social and affordable housing
- Hospitals and healthcare buildings
- Schools and public buildings
They are increasingly discussed as a solution to housing shortages due to their speed and predictability.
Advantages of Volumetric Construction
- Faster Build Times
Because factory work and on-site work happen in parallel, projects can be completed up to 50% faster than traditional builds.
2. Consistent Build Quality
Factory conditions allow:
- Better quality control
- Consistent workmanship
- Fewer defects caused by weather
This often results in more predictable outcomes.
3. More Certainty in Costs & Budgeting
Because of the systemised nature of volumetric construction, costs are agreed earlier in the process and this reduces:
- Material waste
- Weather delays
- Uncertainty in Labour
- Theft & Vandalism
- Onsite noise and disruption
This makes budgeting easier for developers and councils.
4. Energy-Efficient Buildings
Volumetric buildings are often designed with:
- High levels of insulation
- Airtight construction
- Modern energy systems
This can lead to lower running costs for occupants.
Things to Consider Before Choosing Volumetric Construction
While the benefits are clear, volumetric systems are not suitable for every site or project.
1. Logistics and Site Access
Modules are large and heavy. Sites must allow:
- Wide access roads
- Crane operation
- Safe delivery and lifting
Urban or constrained sites can be challenging.
2. Less Flexibility Once Production Starts
Once module manufacturing begins:
- Design changes are costly
- Late alterations can cause delays
Volumetric construction requires a design freeze very early on.
3. Complexities in Financing and Insurance
Some lenders and insurers:
- Are less familiar with volumetric systems as it is new, when compared with traditional brick and mortar
- May impose additional conditions
This is improving, but it can still affect timelines.
4. Perception and Resale Concerns
Despite improvements, some buyers still:
- Misunderstand modular housing
- Confuse it with temporary or mobile structures
This perception is changing, but slowly.
Volumetric Construction in Ireland
In public discourse in Ireland, volumetric construction is often discussed as:
- A fast response to housing shortages
- A tool for social and affordable housing delivery
- A way to reduce on-site delays
However, planning frameworks and public understanding have not fully embraced or caught up with the technology, which creates uncertainty.
Because of this, the use of volumetric techniques is still closely limited to projects that are temporal in nature, ie, temporal construction offices on active building sites, school buildings, and more.
Volumetric Builders in Ireland include:
FAQs
Is volumetric construction permanent?
Yes.
Properly designed volumetric buildings are permanent structures, built to the same building regulations as traditional homes.
Are volumetric homes lower quality?
Not necessarily. Quality depends on:
- Manufacturer standards
- Materials used
- Design and oversight
Many volumetric buildings outperform traditional builds in consistency.
Can volumetric buildings be relocated?
Some can, but most are intended to remain in place long-term once installed and connected to services.
Is volumetric construction cheaper?
It can be, especially at scale. Savings are more likely on:
- Large developments
- Repeat designs
- Public or multi-unit housing
Single bespoke homes may be similar in price to standard housing.
