ASK THE EXPERT
Making the most of MMC
Oliver Rehm of kit house provider Baufritz discusses the increasing move towards offsite ‘modern methods of construction’ (MMC), why self-builders should consider it, and what offsite manufacturers can do to help them on their journey
WHY IS THE UK EMBRACING OFFSITE HOUSEBUILDING METHODS AGAIN?
The UK has woken up to the benefits of using prefabrication to deliver modern houses. As building standards become stricter in relationship to energy efficiency and sustainability, manufacturers are in a good position to meet the demand. At Baufritz we feel the legislation changes needed in the development of new building standards strongly play into modern manufacturing methods.
WHAT MAJOR TRENDS HAVE YOU NOTICED RECENTLY AMONG
CONSUMERS? Traditionally single building firms would construct housing estates containing a large number of almost identical buildings, but consumers are beginning to change their view of what a house should look like. They believe that rather than accepting a generic build, which doesn’t meet their requirements, they should be able to define what they want and get their build delivered on time
and on budget. There’s been a lot of negative press relating to quality issues associated with traditional building methods – consumers are waking up to the fact that prefabricated ‘kit’ houses are adhering to industry defined quality standards.
WHAT SERVICES DO KIT HOUSE
SUPPLIERS PROVIDE? In most cases, they are able to deliver all aspects of a client’s building project. They start by taking the conceptual ideas and developing these into architectural designs. They then support the client through the planning process. Once planning is approved, they are able to manufacture and erect the building, either as a fully ‘turnkey’ solution managing all aspects of construction, or just the shell made up of the walls and roof.
WHAT ARE THE KEY
DIFFERENTIATORS BETWEEN BRICK AND MORTAR BUILDS AND OFFSITE
CONSTRUCTION? People assume that all offsite construction is the same, but it’s quite the opposite. No two houses are the same. For example, Baufritz has developed a six-step process which allows customers to control their housebuilding journey, including a visit to our design centre as part of the building process. Reputable kit house suppliers should be using tried and tested construction methods and materials which guarantee a quality finish. A lot of manufacturers are starting to shift to more sustainable building practices and healthier houses. We like to think of ourselves as an eco-builder, for example. Look for a supplier who uses natural materials, where the production of sustainable
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www.sbhonline.co.uk
A lot of manufacturers are starting to shift to more sustainable building practices and healthier houses february/march 2020
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