The modular building process offers great time savings versus conventional construction. At the same time the building modules are being fabricated in the factory, the site is being prepared to receive the finished building. The installation of the building on its foundation is at the very least just as important as constructing the modules in the factory. Attention to detail, design and site conditions is of utmost importance.

Based on your needs there are three types of site installation of modular buildings:

1 - Temporary installation
2 - Semi permanent installation
3 - Permanent installation

Generally a temporary installation is for buildings that are on rent or lease for a very short period of time, and the building will be relocated to a new site often. Typically this type of building will have an inexpensive foundation enclosure (skirting) that may or may not be discarded and very temporary steps that can be sent away with the building. The foundation for this type of building may have pads in lieu of footers below the frost line, dry block, and auger type anchors. This type of building is usually found on construction or industrial sites.

A semi permanent installation is for a structure that will stay on site for many years. The foundation typically has footers to the frost line and poured piers or mortared block piers with the modules welded to the piers. The foundation enclosure will usually match the structure or be of a contrasting material like brick or stone. Although the building will be staying on site for a long period of time, the elevated floor level requires a need for steps and handicap ramps. These are usually constructed of treated wood or PVC. The module support system (chassis) of the building is designed to stay with the structure and is usually of a perimeter design to allow for increased floor loads. This type of support system will also add to the longevity of the structure. Permanent installation is for the structure that will stay at its original location. The building will typically have a crawl space foundation recessed to grade with masonry or poured walls. In some instances a basement foundation or slab on grade may be used.

Permanent installation involves multi story structures on many installations. Many times the design of a permanently sited building is more involved and requires a mix of three dimensional modular units, panelized, and conventional construction methods. Foundations of these buildings allow for the floor of the structure to be at grade, therefore eliminating the need or steps or handicap ramps. A wide variety of exterior finishes are used on the permanently sited building which may include brick, "Dryvit" stucco or elaborate steel facades. A modular structure being installed in a permanent application would have no noticeable differences to a conventionally constructed building.