In recent years, there has been a remarkable growth in commercial building constructions. This growth has coincided with tremendous advancements in construction-related technology which have totally changed the entire construction landscape. It is fair to say that going forward, we can expect to see even more mind-boggling trends in the industry.
Among the factors that have revolutionized building and structural engineering is the used of refined data. This has brought about many great innovations in the building industry. Today, construction processes are more efficient and environmentally-friendly.
Here are examples of new advances in commercial building constructions:
1. Virtual reality
Although this phenomenon has always been associated with video games, it is becoming more and more widely used in construction worksites. VR creates situational awareness and reduces the impact of various environmental factors. At the same time, it enhances accuracy, especially in complex installations.
2. Autonomous equipment
There is no doubt that the widespread use of virtual reality has enhanced production in a major way. The same can be said about the use of autonomous equipment. For example, drones have led to greater efficiency and safety. When technicians can send drones to inspect the job site, they stay safe from the potential hazards of navigating an active working site.
3. Solar roofing
Today, you have solar roofs that look almost the same as conventional roofs. With solar roofing comes great savings in energy costs. With the right company, it is possible to install this type of roofing without going over-budget. Instead of using actual solar panels, you can install shingles that are integrated with solar cells. In addition to costing less, they are also aesthetically appealing.
4. Offsite construction
This is another aspect of commercial construction that continues to gain traction. By completing some of the crucial tasks offsite, project managers are able to complete a large scale project in good time. At the same time, they get an opportunity to work in a more controlled environment where weather-related delays are out of the question.
5. Internet-of-things incorporation
IoT is now an integral part of many commercial building projects. It, basically, entails the use of data-driven construction. It encapsulates elements like equipment and employee tracking, wearables and drones among others. Just like any other technological advancement, IoT enhances the efficiency and safety of everyone involved in a construction project. Experts have tipped IoT to become even more widely used in construction in the coming years.
6. Adaptive reuse
Instead of tearing down entire structures to come up with new ones, many owners are choosing to restore them and give them a new lease of life. This happens mostly in urban areas where old warehouses and factories are revitalized to be used as office blocks or any other facilities. Of course, it takes great skill for any job site professional to figure out how an old building can be reused.
What does the future hold for commercial building constructions?
There is no doubt that things are about to change dramatically as far as commercial building constructions are concerned. Construction software and other cutting-edge technology are at the center of this revolution.
In the near future, we can expect even more powerful software and hardware tools to be incorporated in building projects. The profile of the construction worker will also be very different with technologically savvy workers becoming the norm rather than the exception.
Technology has permeated virtually every aspect of our lives. In commercial building construction, it has led to reduced costs, increased safety in job sites and, definitely, increased profits. Although there are concerns about the cost of implementing some of the technologies discussed here, the benefits certainly outweigh those concerns.
