Constructions' Good, Bad, and the Ugly 2022 Trends

A brand-new year brings us happy visions of what can be coming next in construction. New dreams will be built and lead to more convenience and quality of life improvements for those in our industry. Technology is starting to noticeably begin shaking up an industry that has been notoriously slow to adapt. Some trends are not as shiny and new but will still be prevalent this year.

Labor Shortage Speeds Up Tech Adaptation

Yes, the labor shortage is causing problems…again. Though the plus is it increases and speeds up the adaption of technology that can be more sustainable, requires less workforce, and makes work more efficient and safe. Businesses will start to achieve more with less while remaining cost-effective.

Sustainability is a Growing Concern

Internationally, more people are interested in reducing their carbon footprint and supporting businesses taking part in sustainable practices. For 60% of consumers globally, sustainability is essential when making a purchase. Construction is a resource-heavy industry, so efforts towards using fewer resources or alternative resources are welcomed by consumers looking to be greener.

Prefab and Modular Construction

Prefab and modular construction finally gain more recognition and are seen as real solutions for building needs. They allow work to get finished while using fewer workers and making for quicker build times. This is because these methods more accurately make use of materials leading to less construction waste. Less waste is more green for the environment and more green for your business.

Alternative Construction Materials

Construction materials can be developed to be cheaper, less wasteful, or be made out of recycled waste products. Precast concrete is cured offsite using reusable molds and monitored while curing. This leads to a safer, higher-quality product that uses less energy to be created. Mass timber or cross-laminated timber (CLT) is renewable and flexible with design usage. It is made out of layers of lumber cut from a single log, glued together to make larger pieces.

BIM Promotes Connection

Building information modeling is used to create digital models of assets during the building process using data. BIM usage leads to more accuracy and can detect issues before plans are implemented. It is great for multiple people like architects, contractors, and engineers to give their input towards a project in a digital space.

Supply Chain and COVID Variants the Sequel

Constructions’ creativity will be at an all-time high as the industry finds ways to overcome the onslaught of difficulties. Supply chain issues will continue this year, as will rising prices for materials needed to finish construction builds. New COVID variants and often changing guidelines further supply issues, worker shortages, and rising costs. Some shortages can be partly blamed on others trying to fill up their stocks to prepare, only to be left with more inventory while leaving others nothing.

Robot Take Over Starts with Drones?

Technology like drones can survey construction sites and create topographic maps. Drones can gather data to be then used to make 3D models later. Drones are quicker at surveying the land versus traditional surveying. Drones can monitor progress, provide updates, and be used for security purposes. Everyone involved in the project will have access to the data gathered, allowing for easier collaboration between teams.