SOLID CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION
Pre-cast ICP construction is made of higher strength concrete that is stronger and more durable than any other building material. While pre-cast ICP can also be used to construct modular buildings, it is usually reserved for smaller structures due to size, weight and site delivery issues.
Modular construction on the other hand is rarely done using concrete and more likely built from wood or other building materials. While any building components that are manufactured offsite might theoretically be considered “prefabricated” (or “prefabbed” for short), modular construction is a specific type of prefabricated construction where entire “modules” are prefabricated offsite and delivered to be installed onsite, like LEGO® blocks being put together piece by piece.
Pre-cast insulated concrete panel construction is superior to modular construction due to its increased energy efficiency, lower labor costs, and improved safety standards. It offers more durability, improved strength, greater insulation capabilities, and fewer seams than modular construction, resulting in better weatherproofing and noise reduction.
Furthermore, it is more structurally sound as pre-cast components are built to strict building codes, offering protection from natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes while also requiring less maintenance and repairs due to its strength and durability.
Additionally, pre-cast concrete offers more design flexibility and customization than modular construction, allowing for the creation of structures that are tailored to a particular site or purpose.
Complicated transport of modules
It is necessary to transport complete modules to the construction site. Sometimes even larger components are transported, which means dealing with oversized transport. In such a case, it is necessary to obtain special permits and arrange accompanying vehicles, which increases costs.
Fire
Concrete is not flammable, and it can stand up to the heat of several thousand degrees. With a precast concrete home, you don’t have to worry about an electrical fire being hidden inside the walls and engulfing the home in flames.
The contents of the home are flammable, but the concrete components are highly resistant to heat and fire.
Tests have shown that solid and ICF concrete walls can withstand temperatures of 2000° F for four hours without affecting their structural integrity. Concrete walls can also help slow the spread of flames, which can be particularly useful when homes are located in wildfire-prone areas.
High Winds
Concrete is exceptionally strong and naturally resistant to wind. In areas that are prone to hurricanes, concrete homes are often the only ones left standing. When Hurricane Michael ripped through Florida as a category 4 hurricane, one concrete home was left standing and virtually unscathed. That storm produced winds of 155mph and storm surges.
Of course, precast homes aren’t windproof, but they can withstand very high winds with ease.
Pests
Concrete isn’t a hospitable environment for pests. Termites love wood, but they have no interest in concrete. That’s because concrete has no nutritional value for insects. They may seek shelter in your home, but they’re not likely to destroy it.
Pest infestations are far less common with concrete, even after decades of homeownership.
Reduces Noise
Concrete homes can provide a more peaceful and calming environment because of their soundproofing properties. Concrete naturally reflects and absorbs sound waves, making it an effective barrier for noise.
Overall, pre-cast insulated concrete construction offers a cost effective solution with numerous benefits over modular construction.
