Trends in the commercial construction industry are ever-changing and it’s important to stay up to date. This is because familiarizing yourself with the latest trends helps you understand and prepare for your project.
This way, you’re able to make decisions that have a positive impact on your project.
Below we take a look at 7 need-to-know trends for commercial construction.
7 Commercial Construction Trends To Look Out For
From the building materials used to the method of construction, these are some important commercial construction trends to know when preparing for your project.
The Rise of Prefab and Modular Construction
These are new and improved methods of construction that are gaining traction in the industry. Prefabrication involves the offsite construction of various building components which are then transported to the site where they are assembled.
Modular construction is similar but it involves the assembly of various parts offsite to create sections of the building.
The offsite construction of parts means that building on site becomes more efficient. Parts are already made and ready for use meaning that you can reduce the amount of time that a construction project takes. This is because workers will not need to create these parts themselves or assemble them.
As such, prefab and modular construction help to:
· Keep costs down
· Encourage a safer construction site
· Complete work within a tight deadline
· Save energy
Building Information Modeling (BIM)
When it comes to a construction project, there are hundreds of people that work to make your dream a reality. To make sure that all these role players produce a cohesive project plan and successful execution, BIM is essential.
This new software ensures a cohesive construction project by enabling architects, engineers, and contractors to collaborate on one design of the building.
Green Building
The construction industry is a major contributor to carbon emissions. With a contribution of 38%, it’s no surprise that green building has come up as one of the latest trends.
As such, commercial construction industries around the world are working to create zero-energy buildings.
There are various ways to achieve a more energy-efficient building. Some of these include:
· Intelligent ventilation
· Solar electricity
· Efficient LED lighting
· Smart technology to control humidity and temperature levels
Sustainable Materials
A major part of green building involves using sustainable materials. You’re probably used to the usual concrete, brick, and wood materials. While they aren’t going anywhere just yet, there are a few new and exciting sustainable materials emerging in the Burlington commercial construction industry.
Hempcrete
This is an eco-friendly alternative to concrete. It involves compressing the inner fibers of the hemp plant and then combining them with lime to form concrete-like shapes. While these concrete alternatives are lightweight, they are solid and strong.
Further, because they are lighter than concrete, it significantly reduces the amount of energy needed to transport them.
Cross-laminated Timber (CLT)
This is an extremely on-trend and sustainable material that has many uses in the construction industry. These planks of wood that are glued and layered perpendicularly are a great choice for flooring, paneling, or ceilings.
CLT projects are also quick and do not require a lot of labor to complete the build.
Self-healing concrete
Self-healing concrete is a great sustainable material that adds value to any building. This concrete contains a type of bacteria called bacillus pasteurii and starch.
These two ingredients work together to fill any cracks in concrete that occur over time. The bacteria remain dormant until the air enters through a crack. Then, the bacteria and starch bond to the concrete to fill and seal the crack.
Shortage of Skilled Labor
Over the years, the amount of skilled workers in the Burlington commercial construction industry has reduced significantly. This is mainly a result of the harsh effects of the recession.
Many skilled workers left the industry at this time and never returned. Plus, younger people are more interested in office-based jobs.
Increase in Remodeling
Renovation and tenant improvements are an up-and-coming trend in the industry. Many buyers in the commercial industry are buying cheaper office spaces and putting money towards improvements.
Others are simply remodeling their existing spaces to be more suitable for the modern workday. This is cost-effective and convenient as they won’t need to relocate.
Remodeling also allows companies to create a unique and well-suited space that is more tailored to their needs and operations.
Safety
Safety has always been important in the construction industry. But, since the Covid-19 pandemic, it has become a top priority.
There has since been an increased focus on social distancing, cleanliness protocols, and enhanced equipment.
Final Thoughts On What is Trending in Commercial Construction
The latest commercial construction trends have a major impact on your build. So be sure to familiarize yourself with these 7 need-to-know trends if you’re about to embark on a construction project.
That way, you can work better with your general contractor to create your dream commercial space!