Modern Methods of Construction – MMC

What are

Modern Methods of Construction

Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) is a term which emcompasses a range of construction and manufacturing techniques, from offsite manufacturing and modular builds, to innovation in using more traditional materials and products. Also known as ‘smart construction’, it is an alternative to traditional construction, and can offer whole house solutions, factory-built 3D volumetric modules, precast flat panels and cladding in addition to more efficient on-site buildings systems and methods.

In October 2016, after being commissioned by the Construction Leadership Council (CLC), Mark Farmer published ‘Modernise or Die’, an independent review in the UK construction industries labour model. Within the report is identified that “a combination of the failure to replace retiring workers and low productivity means construction faces inexorable decline unless it embraces modern methods of construction (MMC)’’.

The idea behind MMC is to increase productivity, control the manufacturing quality and technical specifications and address the industry’s skills shortage whilst helping to deliver on the estimated 300,000 new homes required per year in the United Kingdom.

With ever greater requirements for high quality, low carbon and thermally efficient buildings, MMC is increasingly being seen as having many advantages over other construction methods – including being more eco-friendly.

Modern Methods of Construction MMC

MMC Diagram

What are the different types of MMC?

There are seven recognised types of modern methods of construction. These are as follows:

1: Pre-Manufacturing – 3D primary structural systems

2: Pre-Manufacturing – 2D primary structural systems

3: Pre-Manufacturing – Non systemised structural components

4: Pre-Manufacturing – Additive Manufacturing

5: Pre-Manufacturing – Non-structural assemblies and sub-assemblies

6: Traditional building product led site labour reduction/productivity improvements

7: Site process led labour reduction/productivity improvements

Sound complicated and confusing ??? Fear not – all is explained in the following download:

Modern Method of Construction – Introducing the MMC Definition Framework >

What is offsite construction?

Offsite construction involves a process from planning and design through to assembly of the building element on site.

Within this process the panels or unit are manufactured / fabricated and then transported to site for rapid assembly, some of which are pre-finished or completed once in-situ with internal fit outs and external finishes.

Can you get a mortgage with a MMC built property?

Following the government’s new memorandum of understanding, which was backed by leading insurers, mortgages and insurances are easier to get for homes built using modern methods of construction.

What are 3D volumetric modules?

3D volumetric modules is a form of offsite construction whereby components or modules are constructed within a factory before being delivered to site.

Once these modules are on site, they are assembled into place and with certain systems they can be stacked on top of one another.

Can offsite modules be fully fitted out before being delivered to site?

Yes, some systems offer units which are fully fitted out; however, services are still required on site.

What is a precast flat panel system?

A precast flat panel system is a building envelope manufactured offsite, quite often with the window and door openings already cut in. The panels are usually formed as a sandwich construction with an insulation layer between the internal and external skin.

The internal and external skin can be made from a range of products, such as concrete, timber, metal or any suitable sheathing board.

What is a SIP’s system?

SIP’s or structural insulated panel system, is a lightweight panel system, generally comprised of two layers of OSB (Oriented Strand Board) with a rigid foam insulation core to provide high thermal performance.

What levels of thermal performance can you expect with MMC?

MMC has very few restrictions with regard to thermal performance, therefore the range of U Values (the rate of heat loss from inside to out) it can obtain is impressive.

Some MMC systems can easily achieve passive house levels of 0.10-0.15W/m²K and are certainly well placed to meet the changing building regulation and the proposed new Future Homes Standard.

What are the options regarding finishes for MMC?

The range of finishes for MMC is endless. Some systems can be pre-finished with a range of different weather resistant products, whilst other systems allow for finishing on site with traditional masonry or renders.

What are the benefits of MMC?

MMC can provide a range of benefits:

  • High quality control due to offsite production.
  • Sustainability due to precision engineering, reduction in waste, increased efficiency and the use of sustainable materials.
  • Speed of construction.
  • Reduction in site labour and time up to 50%.
  • Overall cost reduction by allowing buildings to be occupied quicker and generating revenue sooner.

Useful Links

Modular and Portable Building Association (MPBA): UK trade Association for the MMC industry

MBPA Website >