Disassembly and Reuse of Demountable Modular Building Systems

Numerous efforts have been exerted to explore how modular building systems are built. But limited research has focused on how modular building systems are deconstructed. Deconstruction is a means to systematically disassemble buildings and prioritize building reuse. This paper aims to understand the deconstruction process of modular building systems by providing empirical insights into the disassembly and reuse processes. To achieve this goal, this study employed a mixed-research method, incorporating ethnographic site observations, semistructured interviews, and archival research, through a case study of a four-story demountable modular building. The empirical findings indicate that the disassembly process consists of a hybrid sequential and parallel disassembly of modular units, whereas the reuse process consists of four subprocesses: take-back, material tracking, quality inspection, and touch-ups. The contribution of this study to the body of knowledge on deconstruction is twofold: (1) design for deconstruction does not inherently ensure effortless ease of disassembly; and (2) factors such as client ownership, digital material tracking, and ease of value retention play crucial roles in facilitating building reuse. These findings enhance the understanding of the deconstruction process by addressing the gaps in procurement, information, and quality between the disassembly (the first use cycle) and reuse phases (the second use cycle). By exploring disassembly sequence, take-back mechanisms, technology-driven traceability, and value retention processes, this paper provides valuable support to practitioners transitioning toward the reuse of modular buildings.