New Construction Trends appear every year and though 2020 was a challenging year for every business,for the construction industry, it paused a unique challenge. Along with the COVID19 crisis, there was also the issue of labor shortages and rising costs. The reality of these problems meant the construction industry had to get innovative.
With regulations growing stricter, those in the industry need to remain competitive. The following are some of the Construction Trends To Watch In 2024
1. Drones
Drone usage in the construction industry has increased in recent years and it goes beyond aerial real estate photos. Now, they’re being used to rapidly map large properties over long distances. This data produces thermal images as well as heat maps. It provides the user with actionable data that they can use to make decisions rapidly, which is all about streamlining the process. Drones also have a safety function and they are capable of tackling high-risk jobs that may result in injury if a person attempts it. The loss of equipment and personal safety issues are the industry’s biggest liabilities, and drones can combat that.
2. Augmented reality
Construction Trends indicate that business will be good for AR. The global AR market size in 2019 was $849million and that is only set to grow. What does AR look like in terms of construction? There are several uses. For a developer or builder, automated building measurements, hazard simulations, safety training, 3D visualizations, easy simulation of structural changes, as well as building information modeling.
3. Personal protective equipment (PPE)
PPE has always been a key aspect of the construction industry, whether you’re talking about hard hats or high vis gear. Safety is paramount on any site and there are strict guidelines as to what PPE must be used on-site. These are generally adhered to, and easy to do so, but COVID19 has provided a twist to the situation, with even more rules.
It’s the same story in the warehouse industry, with Stafford Sterner, President of SJF stating, “Warehouse managers are investing in the right PPE to keep employees safe while trying to keep up with the increased demand for e-commerce.”
These changes have added costs to projects – both in construction and warehouses – and it can also take up more time for workers, site managers, and business owners. Xxx continued to say, “As well as the new regulations to follow, technology also has a role to play in PPE – and it’s introduced some groundbreaking designs – such as the introduction of things like Wi-Fi connected work boots that alert after a fall, or to robots that construct scaffolding.”
4. Remote and mobile
With apps allowing worksite access remotely, there is a lot to be thankful for. To start with, the increase in on-site accountability and safety has been of major benefit to site managers and owners who may not be able to access the site daily. And with COVID19 changing the game in so many ways, team collaboration without physical access to space, team, and materials is vital. It is possible to complete inspections in real-time at the drop of a hat, and these apps also make accurate measurements of a cinch.
Going green and staying smart
These days, going green isn’t so much a trend as it is an expectation. Green building is the new standard, whether it’s a home buyer or a renter, and it is true of commercial tenants as well. Despite this, many green features will remain a luxury for the foreseeable future, even though their long-term savings are proven. Renewable energy, green-scaping, and the construction itself to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings are all advantages.
Green construction is two-fold, the technology used matters as does the resources involved. It’s using the greenest possible approach to constructing the building. Research has proven that there is a positive impact, physiologically and psychologically, on inhabitants of green buildings. In fact, that positive impact can also positively influence people passing by! Green-scaping is taking advantage of rooftops by planting plenty of greenery or creating small parks. It’s a common practice in urban centers all over the world and Australia is getting on board.
Regardless of whether you’re in the residential or commercial construction sector, there are many new trends that are hitting the market – and these are set to change the future of the industry. Get on board, before you get left behind.
