How long do modular buildings last? The durability of modular construction
3 min read | Published May 27th 2025 | Updated October 9th 2025 | James Osborne
Modular buildings are becoming more and more prevalent across various industries, but are they as durable as traditionally constructed ones?
As modular construction becomes more and more prevalent across various industries, one question which often comes up when we speak to potential customers, is ‘how long do modular buildings last?’.
While there’s no set answer, here at Thurston Group, we’re well versed in building long-lasting modular construction facilities, made to be as durable as possible in even some of the toughest of environments, like those found in the offshore and hydrogen industries.
We’ve recently worked with materials engineering leader Luxfer to create bespoke frames to hold and transport hydrogen gas cylinders, working to meet all relevant regulations for safe storage and transportation.
This included meeting impact tests for the rail industry, which simulates the forces rolling stock may experience during rail transport, used the verify the safety and robustness of components being transported.
In projects like this, durability is of upmost importance – and we ensure that every solution we build for our customers is fit-for-purpose, both now, and well into the future.
How long do modular buildings last?
One benefit of modular construction is the longevity of modular buildings. When properly manufactured, installed, and taken care of, modular constructed facilities can last for at least 50 years.
At Thurston, our British Board of Agrément (BBA) approved galvanised modular system is guaranteed for up to 60 years, ensuring long-lasting buildings for a variety of sectors, ranging from healthcare to education.
How durable are modular buildings?
Another benefit of modular construction is the durability of modular buildings. Modular facilities are often built from high-quality materials such as steel and timber, which can last for decades.
As well as this, the controlled factory environments which modular constructed facilities are built in means they can avoid some of the outside influences, such as the weather, which may affect buildings that are being constructed traditionally.
The rigorous quality control methods associated with the factory environment also means that each module can be inspected before it leaves the site.
This means any defects can be found, allowing modules to be remade if necessary, so that everything arriving on site to be installed is as it should be, leading to fewer potential problems with the install of the modular building.
Are modular buildings easy to maintain?
Modular buildings also have the benefit of being easy to maintain. Proper maintenance is crucial to ensuring the longevity and durability of modular facilities, and the precise method of construction used can often make them easier to maintain.
The flexibility of modular construction means it’s easy to add or replace modules should you want to change the layout or configuration of your facilities, making both expansion and relocation easy.
Here at Thurston Group, we’re one of the leading modular construction companies in the UK, using our 55 years of experience to develop high-quality, long-lasting facilities spanning everything from construction site accommodation to school classrooms.
Whether you’re building for education, energy or healthcare, our modular systems deliver lasting value – talk to us about your next project.
