Creation of Standardised Residential Construction Details for Light-Gauge Steel Panelised Offsite Construction

Abstract

This paper presents the STANDARDIZE project, which is developing standardised construction details for Category 2 Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) to support regulatory compliance and wider adoption in the residential sector. A structured evaluation of MMC typologies—modular steel, modular precast concrete, panelised timber, panelised light-gauge steel (LGS), panelised precast concrete, and insulated concrete formwork—was conducted through an industry stakeholder-driven workshop. Based on criteria including technical maturity, typology, industry needs, certifiability, risk mitigation and scalability, panelised LGS systems were selected. This paper presents a development methodology comprising: (i) consolidation of existing Agrément-certified Category 2 LGS systems; (ii) gap analysis against Irish Building Regulations and performance requirements; and (iii) targeted experimental validation to address identified deficiencies and expand the evidence base for standardised details. The experimental testing of LGS system that covers structural performance, fire resistance, durability, moisture behaviour, and acoustics, will be conducted to relevant EN standards at accredited testing facilities. Results will be made openly accessible to support industry uptake. In parallel, industry stakeholders are advancing the development of an Irish Standard for Category 2 MMC, informed by the project outcomes.