21 Jan Top 10 Construction Trends in 2019
The world is changing faster each year, and the construction industry is no exception. 2019’s top construction trends may not affect you directly this year, but it’s almost certain that they’ll all soon be commonplace. So what do we all need to prepare for?
Construction Trends
1. Designing in the Cloud
Cloud computing is transforming many industries. In the case of construction, it cuts out the need for multiple copies of the building data, eliminating the risk of slight variations creeping in. Everyone involved can use a single version, held in the cloud.
2. Modular Construction
This isn’t a new idea. Since the days of prefabs, modules have been manufactured elsewhere and then assembled on site, but applications for this approach have exploded. Perhaps all buildings will be constructed this way in the future.
3. Robots and Drones
Automating heavy, repetitious and dangerous work is just common sense, and we have the technology now for this. Whether robotic heavy lifting or using drones for hard-to-reach inspections, this is set to grow in the industry.
4. Wearable Technology
From health monitors to smartwatches, wearable technology is growing. Its applications to construction are wide-ranging, from improving health and safety on site to more efficient monitoring of the project.
5. Augmented Reality
A long step beyond virtual reality augmented reality uses an actual view of reality with extra information overlaid. This will allow detailed planning of construction projects using fully augmented simulations.
6. Smart Buildings
Like phones, buildings are starting to become smart, with inbuilt technology that can be upgraded. This means that we’re going to start seeing digital user manuals for buildings, to allow owners to make the best use of the technology.
7. Onsite Construction Labs
For custom-made components of a building, construction labs can use LiDAR data from drones to produce precise designs, which can then be produced using 3D printing technology.
8. Less Use of Cranes
Cranes aren’t always the most efficient technology for constructing or refurbishing buildings, and sometimes they aren’t practical at all. Instead, robotic machinery can be used to deliver components to the relevant place.
9. Waste Management
We’re all conscious these days of how our actions impact the environment, and the construction industry is no exception. The sector has improved on its record of waste production, and this will grow through 2019 and beyond.
10. Quality and Experience
Not all trends are new. The need for experience and high quality in construction projects will never go out of date. If you want to take advantage of U&M’s long experience, why not get in touch to see how we can help you?