Panelized construction moves more of the work off site and into a controlled fabrication environment — giving project teams a faster, more consistent path from structural drawings to enclosed building.
Panelized Steel Construction
What Is Panelized Steel Construction?
Panelized construction is a building method in which structural framing systems — walls, floors, and roof components — are fabricated off-site as complete panel assemblies and then transported to the project site for installation.
Rather than framing the structure piece by piece on site, pre-built panels are lifted into place and connected in sequence, significantly reducing the time and labour required during the construction phase.
When combined with Cold Formed Steel framing, panelized construction delivers the added advantages of a non-combustible, dimensionally accurate structural system that does not shrink, warp, or degrade over time. The result is a faster build with fewer on-site variables and a more consistent end product.
VanderWal has applied panelized construction methods across a range of project types, from rapid housing initiatives to multi-storey commercial and residential developments.
Why Use Panelized Steel Construction?
Where They're Used
Panelized Cold Formed Steel construction is used on projects where speed of delivery, labour efficiency, and structural consistency are priorities. This method is particularly effective on projects where site access is limited, labour availability is a constraint, or the project schedule requires the building to be enclosed as quickly as possible.
Rapid housing initiatives and government-funded housing programs
Mid-rise multi-residential buildings
Modular construction projects
Commercial and mixed-use developments
Institutional facilities with tight delivery schedules
Design and Fabrication
Successful panelized construction depends on thorough design coordination before fabrication begins. Our team works with the project’s architects, engineers, and general contractor to review the structural drawings, confirm panel layouts, and identify any coordination items that need to be resolved before manufacturing starts.
Panels are then fabricated in our facility to the approved design. Each panel is assembled, labelled, and prepared for delivery in the sequence it will be installed on site. This sequencing is planned in advance so that materials arrive in the order they are needed, avoiding unnecessary handling and storage on a constrained site.
Opening locations, connection details, and inter-panel relationships are all confirmed during the fabrication review process to ensure that installation on site is straightforward and efficient.
Delivery and Installation Support
Panels are delivered to site in installation sequence, coordinated with the project’s construction schedule to avoid bottlenecks and minimize material handling. Each panel is clearly labelled and accompanied by documentation that supports the installation team in erecting the structure efficiently.
Where required, our team can support the project with installation sequencing guidance, helping to coordinate the panel erection with crane operations, trade access, and other site activities. We remain available throughout the installation phase to address any questions that arise.
How We Support Your Project
We work with developers, general contractors, structural engineers, and architects at every stage of the project.
Early Stage
Early engagement allows our team to review the project for panelization suitability, assess the site and schedule constraints, and provide input on panel layout and sequencing before the design is finalized. The earlier we are involved, the more value we can add to the delivery strategy.
During Fabrication
Our team coordinates production and delivery schedules in parallel, maintaining clear communication on timelines and flagging any design changes that affect the panel program before they create downstream issues.
At Delivery
Panels arrive on site in installation sequence, clearly labelled and accompanied by supporting documentation. Our team is available to assist with any coordination questions during the erection phase.
Ready to Discuss Your Project?
Whether you are in early planning or ready to move forward, our team is available to review your drawings and discuss your floor system requirements.