A prefabricated building, also known as prefab, is a building that is constructed using factory-made units that are assembled on-site to form the complete building. The units or components are pre-cut, pre-sized or pre-shaped that arrive on site for assembling. Prefabricated units include a wide range of construction parts from doors, stairs, wall panels, floor panels to room-sized components and even the entire buildings. Prefabricated building process includes structural, architectural and services elements. There are basically two types of prefab systems – 2D and 3D prefab system. These systems can be used individually, or in combination. Sometimes, it can also be used in conjunction with traditional construction systems. This building system comes in a varied range of types, quality and budget.
Prefab technology is advancing rapidly and helping the construction industry to transform as per the need of 21st century. As it continues to improve day by day, it is being a smarter option with companies and organizations increasingly choosing the system over traditional system in recent times. Prefabricated building system has been widely used for housing and commercial use in international context. In Nepal also, its popularity has increased greatly after 2015 earthquake owing to the system’s remarkable benefits. Some of the benefits of prefabricated building are:
- Increased efficiency and productivity
- High quality and innovative designs
- A wide range of budget choices
- Less time frames and costs
- Less construction waste
- Low site disturbance
- Earthquake resistant
- Flexibility