November 15, 2023
Advances in building have revolutionized the way we design and build spaces, and prefabricated bathrooms are a prime example. These modular structures have entered the mainstream in recent years thanks to their versatility and sustainability. In this article, we'll take an in-depth look at prefabricated bathrooms, their various uses and the advantages they bring.
Prefabricated bathrooms - also known as industrialized or modular bathrooms - are a functional and efficient construction solution. These building components are produced in factories or specialist workshops, then transported to the installation site. Once on-site, they're plumbed in and ready for use as a fully functional bathroom.
The industrialized construction concept dates back several centuries, but prefabricated bathrooms as we know them today emerged in the mid-twentieth century. Modular bathrooms were used in World War II combat zones, providing temporary sanitary facilities. The technology later moved to the civil sector, where it made inroads into commercial and residential projects.
In countries such as Sweden, Finland and Norway, industrialized construction accounts for 4.5% of built homes. In Spain, meanwhile, the figures are much lower. According to the Platform for Prefabricated Housing (Plataforma para la Industrialización de Viviendas/PIV), just 1% of property developments include prefabricated structures.
Companies such as Butech are working hard to up the numbers through improved technical specifications, energy efficiency in the home, faster construction lead times and cost control. PORCELANOSA Offsite is the fruit of this labor, representing the firm's commitment to customized constructions featuring PORCELANOSA Group materials and finishes.
In terms of construction methods, prefabricated bathrooms come with a number of advantages:
• Reduced lead times. Thanks to its durability, ease of cleaning and resistance against water and marks, ceramic is one of the most widely used bathroom flooring options. In addition, its versatility in terms of design allows you to choose a uniform image or play with patterns. The combination of colors on floors and walls helps to create a consistent and harmonious look in the bathroom.
• Price variation. Because modular bathrooms are produced and assembled in the factory, prices are more tightly controlled.
• Reduced investment risk. Shorter lead times and control over variations in price mean a lower initial investment and improved efficiency in project planning.
• High quality standards. Modular prefabricated bathrooms are manufactured in a controlled environment, and are therefore subject to strict quality control. This guarantees compliance with construction standards and ensures bathrooms are safe and hard-wearing.
• Reduced labor and risk on-site. Prefabricated bathroom companies have a qualified workforce on tap who know the products inside-out. This means fewer staff on-site, reducing the potential for accidents.
• Reduction of stockpiles and waste on site. Industrialized construction generates less waste on the building site and makes more efficient use of materials. This makes it a more sustainable way of working.
• Reduced shrinkage and repairs on-site. When modular bathrooms are produced on an assembly line, the likelihood of waste, breakage and shrinkage is reduced. Similarly, because components arrive on-site fully finished, they're much simpler to check over.
• No scaffolding required. Prefabricated modular bathrooms are transported on supports suited to the weight and dimensions of the structure. Once on-site, they can be raised quickly and easily using a crane or forklift truck. Next, they're moved to the right location using hand pallet trucks.
Several stages are involved in the factory production and assembly of modular bathrooms:
Given that they're so versatile, prefabricated bathrooms have a wide range of applications in various sectors. Here are some highlights:
• Construcción residencial. Modular bathrooms are regularly installed in apartment buildings, saving time and construction costs. They also suit single-family homes, but aren't as common.
• Sector hotelero. Prefabricated bathrooms are a popular choice for hotel renovations or expansions. This type of solution minimizes cancellations during works.
• Sector de la salud. Construction speed is paramount in hospitals and clinics. Prefabricated modules are an efficient and agile solution when expanding healthcare facilities.
• Construcción comercial. Office buildings, shopping malls and restaurants can also benefit from industrialized construction. This way of working delivers projects with much shorter lead times.
• Proyectos públicos. The ease of installation and durability of prefabricated bathrooms makes them ideal for public spaces like parks or bus depots. These busy spaces demand convenient sanitary facilities.
With an acute awareness of the importance of industrialized construction in our country, PORCELANOSA Group's Porcelanosa Offsite is a division dedicated to fully finished modular bathrooms. Monobath is the result of industrial development in producing prefabricated bathrooms by Porcelanosa, created on an assembly line and supplied ready to be installed on site.
The elements are designed with PORCELANOSA Group collections, intended for major hotel, health or residential projects. Prefabricated bathrooms by Porcelanosa stand out for their innovative composition and premium finishes. And because they're so versatile, each model can be customized according to the customer's needs.
Butech made its commitment to industrialized construction a reality with the opening of its production plant at the end of 2022.
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