6 Tech Trends in the Construction Industry to Track in 2020

Featured article by Russell Emmental, Independent Technology Author

In the construction industry, innovations are always popping up. Especially thanks to the help of ever-changing technology, construction techniques in 2020 are more reliant on machines and computers than ever before.

As these trends merging technology and construction evolve, building-work and contractor professionals need to adapt to the new methods and equipment.

Here are some of the most popular tech-related construction industry trends to watch this year.

1) Virtual Reality (VR), Mixed Reality (MR), and Augmented Reality (AR)

These new technologies are making a significant impact on various industries, including construction. Buildings are becoming more complex, and these new technologies make it easier for architects to ensure their designs are error-free.

Here are a few of the ways that VR, MR, and AR are used to aid in construction projects:

– 3D modelling
– Improving and innovating BIM visualization
– Provides a permanent record of the structure and lets clients see designs before starting projects
– Helps engineers and maintenance workers see through walls.

2)  3D Printing

3D printing is one of the biggest trends in 2020. Construction companies all over the globe are using 3D printing because of its convenience.

3D printing allows you to prefabricate items off-site or on-site. It’s a cost-effective solution that reduces the need for labor. Additionally, it is much less wasteful.

Best of all, 3D printers are automated, meaning you don’t have to spend as much time as you would using traditional methods.

Pro Tip: For metalworking with 3D printed models, consider using a deburring machine to clean up your projects and smooth out rough edges or ridges.

3)  Construction Drones

The use of drones in construction projects is a fast-growing trend. Some people think drones are only used for aerial photography, but that isn’t the case.

– Drones can be used to map large areas over long distances rapidly—the result: aerial heat maps and thermal images. Advancements in drone technology make it possible to collect real-time data that speeds up the decision-making process.
– Drones help with personal safety. These devices can do jobs in place of humans to avoid injuries.
– Drones can also be used as a security measure to reduce the risk of equipment theft.

4) Modular & Premade Construction

Prefabricated and modular structures are becoming increasingly popular thanks to a lack of labor and expensive materials.

Many builders are creating innovative, sustainable designs that are making prefab projects more desirable. New tech also makes it possible to build higher prefab structures.

Building information technology (BIM) is one of the ways that people tackle modular and premade projects.

Because it’s easier than ever to create computer models of utilities and buildings, it’s also easier to create more accurate prefabricated parts in less time.

5) Sustainable Construction

It’s no secret that more and more people are listing sustainability as one of their top priorities. Sustainability initiatives tend to be costly, meaning that many people can’t access green solutions.

Buyers are demanding renewable energy, less resource expenditure, and a reduced carbon footprint. Research even suggests that these movements toward sustainability are having a positive effect on people’s mental health.

Because of the spike in popularity, costs might drop in the future. Once sustainable technology in building work becomes the standard by law, its manufacturers will have no choice but to lower prices.

6) Tech Experts

Like we mentioned, there’s been a significant shortage of skilled labor these past few years. The deficit is making labor much more competitive and expensive.

Part of this is because of advancements in automation. Robots are now capable of completing many of the jobs humans used to do.

However, there’s a need for educated employees who can analyze the data collected by new tech.

For this reason, major players in the industry are setting their sights on Gen-Z. Through trade programs and internships, companies are hoping to create new skilled laborers who can keep up with the advancements in technology.