Modular
Zenith Engineers brings a level of expertise to the modular construction industry with our vast experience in most building materials, which other firms may lack. Our engineers are experts in both permanent modular (PMC) and relocatable modular (or temporary modular). The design lifecycle of these both contain different elements, while sharing a third element: transportation. We can assist in all of these elements.
Modular projects bring their own design considerations, from foundation and footing design to the risk of over-engineering. Zenith Engineers Inc. provides structural engineering guidance informed by past project experience with panelized shear walls, cross-laminated timber roof sections, and combinations of multiple building systems. Markets served include homeless shelters, school and education-based additions, construction site trailers, and public works remote site additions.
Our modular building engineering team works on permanent and relocatable modular units, accounting for transportation requirements in each design. Zenith supports manufacturers, developers, and public agencies with structural analysis of modified modules, panelized system design, foundation design for prefabricated buildings, and permitting support for temporary modular sites. Our team has experience working with trailers, sea boxes, shipping containers, cross-laminated timber modules, and panelized wall systems. Contact us to discuss the scope, schedule, and site conditions for your upcoming modular project.
Frequently Asked Question's
Permanent modular construction (PMC) uses factory-built modules assembled on site into a permanent building, such as hotels, schools, or multifamily projects. Relocatable modular units, including site offices and classrooms, are moved and reused. Zenith Engineers Inc. works on each type.
It depends. On larger projects, the engineer of record typically handles foundation design. On smaller pre-engineered or prefabricated buildings, the manufacturer's engineer may not cover foundations. Zenith designs slab-on-grade, thickened edge, isolated footings, mat slabs, and pile foundations.
In many cases, yes, though removing walls or joining units typically calls for structural analysis and calculations. Zenith analyzes modular trailers, sea boxes, shipping containers, cross-laminated timber (CLT) modules, and panelized wall systems, from inspection through construction documents and permit.
Panelized construction uses wall, floor, or roof panels built off-site and assembled on-site, while modular construction uses three-dimensional units built in a factory. Zenith works with cold-formed steel and wood-framed panelized systems, including conversions from conventionally designed structures.