2024, and it finally feels like the construction industry is emerging in a positive light after the challenges COVID-19 brought in its wake. As we settle into the new norm, we also look ahead to the biggest construction industry trends 2024 has to offer – so you can keep up to speed with all the industry innovations.
So, without further ado, let’s check out the hot and happening trends in the construction industry this year!
Construction industry trends to watch out for
1. Smart cities
In a world in which we are becoming hyper-connected, it comes as no surprise that we are likely to see a rise in smart cities. Smart cities are an urban solution that uses technology and sensors to
- collect data,
- connect people,
- promote economic growth,
- improve government services and
- increase citizen welfare.
To help with the smart city movement – smart concrete mixtures are a must. Although still in its early stages, the use of smart concrete can turn roads into sensors and, ultimately, traffic updates and more.
2. Introduction of new construction materials
As sustainability and eco-friendly structures become a growing trend, the types of building materials used will change. For instance, along with recycled materials and engineered timber, we’ll see a rise in the use of Engineered Cementitious Composite (ECC). Wondering what we mean by this? Simply put, ECC is bendable concrete.
ECC contains high-performance polymer-derived fibres that make it stronger than traditional concrete. The benefits of which include,
- Durability
- Negative carbon footprint
- Cost-effectiveness
As mentioned above, we may see an increase in the use of smart concrete in construction projects to allow for the Internet of Things (IoT) systems to function and support the smart city movement.
3. 3D printing
Every day, we’re looking for ways to work more efficiently, which leads us to 3D printing. Since its first introduction in the 1980s in Japan by Hideo Kodama, 3D printing has come a long way. Today, 3D printing has evolved into providing benefits in various markets, including construction, so much so that the global market for 3D printing is expected to reach $728479 billion by 2030, according to reports by Research and Markets.
With benefits such as,
- Time Reduction,
- Cost-effectiveness,
- Sustainability,
- Design flexibility and
- Safety.
It’s no surprise that we will see a rise in the use of 3D printing.
So, when it comes to construction, you can expect to see the use of 3D printing for building materials such as concrete.
A new era of construction industry trends
Call it necessity or simply moving with the times – technological advancements are changing the face of the construction industry as we know it. AI and the Internet of Things (IoT) are forecasted to fuel growth. Some additional upcoming trends we expect to encounter as the year progresses include the following.
- Digital collaboration software enabling teams to stay connected from wherever we are.
- Robots and machines for completing repetitive tasks and solving the problem of shortage of workers.
- Drones for construction inspections, surveys, and live updates on construction projects.
- Self-driving construction vehicles.
- Smart project management tools.
- Wearable sensors and GPS devices for safety on construction sites.
- AI and Augmented Reality (AR) to collaborate on projects and share 3D images and videos.
Hire a reliable concreting service to lay solid-quality foundations
Are you looking for a forward-thinking, highly recommended concrete services provider? Contact our team today for a quote!
At NextGen Concrete and Excavation, our concreters are highly experienced and qualified. We carry out each job in accordance with the Safe Work construction code of practice. So, you can rest assured your project is in good hands.