Modular concrete construction

Purpose

This study evaluates the enablers and barriers for modular concrete construction in Lebanon. The purpose of this paper is to investigate various factors (time, cost, technical know-how, organizational, sustainability, etc.) and their influence on the choice of the construction method. The paper examines the different assessments of designers, manufacturers, and contractors regarding precast construction in comparison to traditional in-situ methods, and highlights the major differences in their views.

Design/methodology/approach

Structured face-to-face surveys were conducted with top management personnel of precast manufacturers, architectural and engineering firms, and contracting companies in Lebanon. In addition, a case study from the largest precast project in Lebanon was used to provide a deeper understanding of factors encouraging the use of precast concrete, and to highlight major onsite issues associated with its implementation.

Findings

On the one hand, the findings highlight technical, logistical, organizational, and cultural factors that inhibit the use of precast concrete as a construction method. On the other hand, results reveal that cost, time, sustainability, and flexibility factors are the main enablers for increasing the uptake of modular concrete construction.

Originality/value

The main contribution to knowledge is that this study presents different stakeholders’ perspectives on precast concrete construction. Moreover, this is the first research addressing precast concrete construction in the Middle East and Lebanon. The results of the study provide valuable global insights and recommendations that may help increase the uptake of precast concrete construction. They can also guide project stakeholders to properly match project characteristics and precast concrete as a construction method.