While modular construction (also called prefabricated or prefab) may feel like a modern innovation, its roots go as far back as ancient Rome. By contrast, stick-built construction — assembling structures piece by piece on-site — has been around for nearly two million years!

Today, both methods offer distinct advantages and drawbacks, and choosing between them depends on your project’s needs, timeline, and budget.

Below, we break down the key differences between stick-built and modular construction — and explain why prefabricated products like windows and curtain walls can benefit either approach.

Stick-Built vs. Modular: What’s the Difference?

In recent years, industries like healthcare, education, and hospitality have increasingly turned to modular construction. Why? Because it offers faster installation, consistent quality, and meaningful cost savings — especially in sectors that demand scalable, adaptable infrastructure.

Modular construction’s speed and cost-efficiency have even positioned it as a promising tool in tackling affordable housing shortages.

But what exactly sets the two methods apart?

• Modular construction (per the Modular Building Institute) is “a process in which a building is constructed off-site, under controlled plant conditions, then assembled on location.”
• Stick-built construction involves building on-site from the ground up, using individual pieces like studs, joists, and rafters.

Deciding between the two comes down to factors like budget, timeline, design goals, and long-term building performance.

Stick-Built vs. Modular: Benefits and Drawbacks

Here’s how the two methods compare across key areas:

• Speed: Stick-built projects can take several months to over a year, depending on complexity. Modular projects are typically completed in a matter of weeks to a few months.
• Cost: Stick-built buildings often carry higher costs due to customization, labor intensity, and longer construction timelines. Modular construction reduces labor costs and shortens timelines by shifting much of the work to an efficient, factory-controlled setting.
• Design flexibility: Stick-built offers maximum design freedom, enabling one-of-a-kind layouts and details. Modular construction relies on pre-designed modules, which can limit customization — though many manufacturers now offer a range of styles and some degree of bespoke work.
• Quality control: Stick-built quality depends heavily on the contractor, materials, weather, and site conditions. Modular projects benefit from factory-level quality control, reducing the risk of delays or inconsistencies.
• Durability: While stick-built structures are traditionally seen as longer-lasting, modular buildings are typically engineered to meet the same codes and standards — and can be just as durable when properly designed and installed.
• Energy efficiency: Modular buildings often achieve higher energy efficiency thanks to precise fabrication and airtight construction in controlled environments. Stick-built efficiency varies widely based on craftsmanship and materials.

In the residential space, modular homes have historically faced a reputation for being “cheaper” or less desirable — sometimes affecting resale value. But that perception is steadily shifting as modular design gains broader acceptance.

Notable examples include Ten Degrees Croydon in London — the world’s tallest modular building at nearly 450 feet — and Apex House, a 28-story project completed in just 12 months.

The Benefits of Prefabricated Glazing

No matter which construction method you choose, using prefabricated glazing systems — like factory-assembled windows and curtain walls — delivers major advantages:

• Faster, safer installation on-site
• Superior quality control from factory fabrication
• Reduced labor costs and fewer trades needed on-site

For example:

• A typical window wall installation may involve coordinating up to six trades.
• A prefabricated curtain wall system often needs just one installer.
• Unicel Architectural offers prefabricated windows, curtain walls, and custom openings in virtually any size or shape.

Ready to Learn More?

Contact Unicel Architectural to explore our prefabricated glazing solutions for institutional, commercial, and high-end residential projects. Let’s help you achieve a faster, higher-quality build — whether stick-built or modular.