Knowledge & news: answers and updates from the construction site.
In the guide section we answer the questions we are actually asked on the construction site, calculated honestly rather than favorably. And in the news we show what is currently going on at Mariacher.
Articles
The latest articles.
Written by the people who spend their days on the construction site. Guide articles stay valid, news items show the date.
Frequently asked questions
The short answers up front.
For a quick overview: the most important answers in brief.
Does Mariacher take on the whole project or individual services as well?
Both. As an overall partner we take responsibility for planning, construction, fit-out and service from a single source, on request as a general contractor (GU) or design-and-build contractor (TU) project. We just as readily take on individual steps, from the kitchen package to a repair. And when the facility grows later on, we are back again.
Does Mariacher also look after facilities from other manufacturers?
Yes. Our service centre works independently of the manufacturer: maintenance, repair, cleaning and conversion for any container facility in Switzerland, no matter who built it.
Are container facilities also suitable for permanent use?
Yes. Alongside temporary buildings, we build facilities for long-term use, from offices to school buildings. What matters is the structural design, insulation and fit-out; that is exactly where our many years of experience come in.
What does the fit-out include?
From the bare module to turnkey handover, we take care of the complete interior fit-out. This includes, among other things, the kitchen, sanitary facilities, electrical installation, lighting, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, floor, wall and ceiling cladding as well as all fit-out work – tailored individually to your project.
How quickly can a facility be up and running?
That depends on size, fit-out and permits, which is why we do not give blanket figures. After the first conversation you receive a realistic schedule, honestly calculated instead of made to look good.
How much does a modular building cost?
It depends on size, use and fit-out standard – a temporary office is costed differently from a turnkey school building. Flat rates would not be honest. After a first conversation you receive an indicative quote with transparent line items instead of hidden surcharges.
Are container buildings winter-proof?
Yes. Our buildings are designed for year-round operation in Switzerland: insulated floor, wall and roof elements, insulated windows and heating matched to the use. How much insulation makes sense depends on location and duration of use – we advise you honestly.
What are the dimensions of a module?
The grid follows your project, not the other way round. Individual modules are sized to remain transportable by lorry; by coupling and stacking them you get continuous rooms, entire storeys and multi-storey buildings. The exact dimensions are defined during planning.
Does a container building need a building permit?
As a rule, yes – including temporary buildings. Requirements differ by canton and municipality. As general or total contractor we prepare the permit application plans and manage the approval process so your project does not get stuck in formalities.
How long does a modular building last?
With proper maintenance, a modular building is designed to last for decades. What matters is the quality of the structure and building envelope plus regular servicing – which is exactly why we run our own service centre.
Where does Mariacher operate?
Throughout Switzerland. From our locations in Staad SG, Walterswil SO and Glis VS we plan, build and maintain facilities from Geneva to the Rhine Valley.