Refurbished modular buildings

We undertake a meticulous process for our refurbished modular buildings. Starting with a complete disassembly down to the steel frame, we then reconstruct the building using new materials, resulting in a fully customised and repurposed modular building.

What does a refurbished modular building really mean?

A refurbished modular building from Portable Building Sales is not simply a cosmetic upgrade. Each building is stripped back to its original steel frame and rebuilt using new materials, modern systems and a layout tailored to your requirements.

This approach delivers a high-quality modular building that meets current building regulations, performs to modern energy standards and offers the same flexibility and lifespan as a newly manufactured building, at a significantly lower cost and carbon footprint.

Modular building with a brick base and light exterior, with people standing outside.

Our refurbished modular building process

1. Assessment & strip-back

We begin by fully disassembling the modular building back to its steel frame. Each structure is inspected to ensure it meets our strict quality and safety standards.

2. Rebuild & reconfiguration

The building is reconstructed using new materials, allowing layouts, window and door positions, internal finishes and external colours to be customised to your requirements.

3. Compliance & quality assurance

All refurbished modular buildings are upgraded to meet current building regulations and performance standards.

4. Delivery & installation

Once complete, the refurbished building is delivered and installed quickly, minimising disruption to your operations.

Factory worker constructing a refurbished modular building by assembling timber framework.

Is a refurbished modular building right for your project

Refurbished modular buildings are ideal for organisations that need a high-quality, compliant building without the cost or lead times of new construction. They are particularly well suited to projects where speed, sustainability and budget certainty are critical.

A refurbished modular building may be right for you if you need:

A faster alternative to new modular or traditional construction
A lower capital cost without compromising quality
A building tailored to your layout and specification
A sustainable solution aligned with ESG or net zero goals

A sustainable alternative to new modular

Refurbishing an existing modular building significantly reduces waste, energy use and embodied carbon compared to manufacturing a new structure.

Our modular buildings are constructed in a factory environment and therefore only a precise number of required materials are used, minimising waste materials. Also, repurposing existing modular buildings prevents 2,400 tonnes of waste from going to landfill every year.

Working closely with our waste service providers, we make certain that zero waste goes to landfill to ensure best practices are achieved.

Our commitment to net zero

Cost-effective solution

Our refurbished modular buildings are a cost-effective solution to provide you with a high-quality building which once complete, can look almost as good as a newly manufactured building.

These refurbished modular buildings can also be beneficial in saving time as we can have a building fully refurbished to your exact requirements in as little as 3-4 weeks.

We offer a number of different options when it comes to the refurbishment choices. Windows and door locations, external colours, floor options and internal fittings are offered to suit your specific requirements.

Image of a refurbished modular building for Farne Primary school with wood cladding

Reduces carbon emissions

Our sister company Wernick Refurbished Buildings recently conducted an academic study assessing the embodied carbon emissions of a refurbished modular building compared to a newly built modular building.

It found that there was a 46% reduction in embodied carbon emissions of a refurbished modular building.

Download report

Image of factory worker constructing a refurbished modular building

Why choose PBS for refurbished modular buildings

At Portable Building Sales, refurbishment is carried out by experienced modular building specialists, supported by the wider expertise of the Wernick Group. From initial consultation through to delivery and installation, our team manages the entire refurbishment process in-house.

What sets us apart:

Decades of modular building experience
In-house refurbishment facilities
Access to nationwide stock
Proven sustainability credentials
Clear guidance from specification to installation

Modular office meeting room with glass walls, a white conference table and multiple black chairs.

Speak to our team

Call: 01482 656590

enquiries.refurbished@wernick.co.uk

Fill out our enquiry form

What is a refurbished modular building?

A refurbished modular building is an existing modular structure that has been stripped back to its steel frame and rebuilt using new materials, modern systems and updated finishes. At Portable Building Sales, refurbishment goes beyond cosmetic improvements, ensuring the building meets current standards and is tailored to your requirements.

Are refurbished modular buildings compliant with building regulations?

Yes. All refurbished modular buildings supplied by Portable Building Sales are upgraded to meet current UK building regulations. This includes compliance with structural, fire safety, thermal performance and accessibility requirements where applicable.

How long does it take to refurbish a modular building?

Refurbishment timescales depend on the size, layout and specification of the building. In many cases, a refurbished modular building can be completed in as little as 3–4 weeks, making it a much faster alternative to new modular or traditional construction.

Can a refurbished modular building be customised?

Absolutely. Refurbished modular buildings can be fully customised to suit your needs. Layouts, window and door positions, external finishes, flooring, heating, lighting and internal fittings can all be tailored to your specification.

What is the difference between refurbished and new modular buildings?

The key difference is the starting point. A refurbished modular building reuses an existing steel frame, which is rebuilt using new materials and systems. This results in a lower cost, faster delivery and reduced environmental impact compared to manufacturing a brand-new modular building, while still delivering high-quality performance and durability.

Are refurbished modular buildings energy efficient?

Yes. During refurbishment, buildings are upgraded with modern insulation, energy-efficient lighting and heating systems. This ensures refurbished modular buildings perform to current energy standards and provide comfortable, efficient spaces for everyday use.

How sustainable are refurbished modular buildings?

Refurbished modular buildings are a highly sustainable option. Reusing existing structures reduces material consumption, waste and embodied carbon. Independent research has shown that refurbished modular buildings can achieve up to a 46% reduction in embodied carbon compared to new modular buildings.

What types of buildings can be refurbished?

A wide range of modular buildings can be refurbished, including offices, classrooms, welfare facilities, healthcare spaces and commercial accommodation. Buildings can be reconfigured, extended or adapted to suit new uses.

Do Portable Building Sales handle delivery and installation?

Yes. Portable Building Sales manages the full process, including refurbishment, delivery and installation. Our team works with you from initial consultation through to final handover to ensure a smooth, efficient project.

Is a refurbished modular building a long-term solution?

Yes. Refurbished modular buildings are designed to be durable, adaptable and long-lasting. They can be relocated, extended or reconfigured in the future, making them a flexible long-term investment for your organisation.

How can we help you with your next project?

Contact us