Solutions to Drive Pre-Manufactured Value (PMV)

By Andrew Gillard, Sika Business Unit Manager – Industry and MMC

This year has seen events that have re-shaped the world we live in. The world around us has seen generational shifts, with rapid transformations in IT, and advances in technology. Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) continues to move towards the heart of our construction industry in the UK. We understand that, for the offsite constructor, finding ways to increase PMV for the client, but keeping the manufacturing process as efficient as possible, can be challenging. We believe that it is the responsibility of key suppliers to assist this process, in whichever way possible. At Sika, we have the technology to support all areas of manufacture.

Sika can support the advancement of PMV, by providing unique and high-performing solutions. We can demonstrate high levels of technical knowledge, and support in many applications, from the floor, through to roof; these being interior and exterior applications for volumetric, panelised or pod manufacture. Our approach is to define ways to reduce build-time, simplify bill of materials, and increase quality as well as life expectancy, whether it be timber or steel framed construction.

It is necessary for the offsite manufacturers to rely on the technical support and product know-how of their supply partners. Technical support and training are a key requirement of a professional partner. We can support the offsite manufacturer with advice on Process Failure Mode Effects Analysis (PFMEA) and, where necessary, aid with training and upskilling of the client’s workforce.

We go beyond the supply of materials – we can assist with the development, testing and design, through to supporting a manufacturer’s implementation and process optimisation in modular building production.

Interior Applications

In the context of interiors, we can support with clever materials for cementitious bases through floor coatings, to Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT) adhesives and good solutions for wood floor bonding, as well as traditional floor tile adhesive systems.

We can also support with joint sealants, whether it be sanitary or aesthetic. Our passive fire protection range can assist in making units safer. Our reduced dust, low emission wall levelling compound meets all the latest EHS requirements, and gives class-leading finishing characteristics. Our high green strength adhesive can be used to reduce the requirement for mechanical fixings, which can create Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) issues. Pretty much, we can help you look at applications in new ways.

Exterior Applications

We understand the need for water tightness and with our weather-proofing solutions for roofing, walls and windows, etc., we aim to assist you to deliver units, with minimal retro repair, and reduced zip-up costs. Our robust solutions will reduce transit damage of volumetric units, and our ideas to reduce weight will lower CO₂ from transportation requirements.

Our innovations to improve structural rigidity of units can mitigate flex in transit, and the subsequent repairs. Our membrane systems can assist with keeping the weather out, whilst the units wait to be slotted into the final building. Whichever exterior wall finish is used, Sika can support our customers. From renders to adhesives for brick slip bonding, to wood adhesives and bonded panelised systems.

Pod Manufacture

Our solutions for Bathroom Pods and wet rooms can reduce waiting time for curing. Whether it be for the concrete base or ETAG022 systems for wetroom walls and floors, for tile bonding with automated solutions, or fast curing stiffener bar attachment, we are able to help.

To summarise, in the last year, Sika has been learning about the challenges that face the MMC arena. To be able to support the required PMV levels, offsite and modular constructors warrant additional levels of service and innovation. After identifying key applications, Sika has leveraged its huge product range to come up with some great solutions, to improve rigidity, reduce noise transfer, improve fire performance, reduce cycle time, lower costs, enhance sustainability, boost quality and provide a one-stop-shop from basement to roof.

For more information on how we can assist you, contact James Taylor on 01707 363893 or visit our website here: