Jason Smith
BuyerZone.com Editorial Staff

Prefabricated buildings (or "modular buildings") take on many forms - from portable classrooms to research laboratories to horse stables. Using the same materials as traditional buildings, a manufacturer constructs prefabricated buildings in sections for easy transport and assembles the pieces at the customer's location.

Manufacturers of prefabricated buildings offer great flexibility for customers. Businesses can select from a wide variety of materials for both the exterior and the interior. Since prefabricated buildings are both stackable and portable, companies can continue to add to existing construction or take it apart to move to the next location - a key benefit for businesses that to constantly take their operations on the road.

As far as getting set up, prefabricated buildings can be erected rather quickly - some in as little as 45 days. Companies can start concentrating on making money rather than concerning themselves with when their building will be finished.

Prefabricated buildings can be constructed at almost half the cost of a traditional building. For a basic structure such as a portable office or classroom, expect to pay about $35 per square foot. More complex prefabricated buildings - medical clinics and retail facilities - will cost you close to $200 per square foot. While not exactly a drop in the bucket, it's still more affordable than traditional construction, particularly if the prefabricated buildings are only going to be used for a fixed period of time.

For those companies who look beyond price and convenience, prefabricated buildings do have a few downsides. The most obvious is the look and feel. At their most basic, prefabricated buildings are meant to be quick, affordable solutions - so they aren't the prettiest structures in the world. Elevated entrances and shorter ceilings don't really add to the décor, but if you are willing to spend a bit more, you can upgrade your prefabricated buildings to have more stylish designs.