The construction industry is set to change in 2020. With major events like Brexit and the pandemic lockdown, the sector is predicted to move towards more digitised and modern methods of construction. The trend has been on the rise since the past few years. Still, with the new social distancing restrictions imposed, there will be a more significant shift towards these modern methods of construction from the more traditional methods. Read on for some of the most significant trends to look out for in 2020.
A Shift Towards Modern Methods of Construction
The demand for modern methods of construction has been on the rise, and with Brexit and the pandemic lockdown, the need for these methods is predicted to rise further. We see a significant shift from the traditional methods of construction to more modern methods. The main reasons for this shift include a shortage of labour induced by Brexit and the strict regulations for social distancing imposed due to the pandemic. These are the main factors that will lead to more and more construction activities being shifted off-site. Use of modular structures, prefabrication and off-site building of various components like balconies will be on the rise to ensure that the industry moves forward given the difficult situations presented by the virus in 2020.
A Focus on Sustainability and the Environment
The pandemic has brought the issues of environment and sustainability to the forefront. The government and consumers are taking extra measures to reduce their carbon footprints. We predict that sustainability will be an emerging trend in the second half of 2020.
There will be an increased importance on sustainable housing spaces and use of recycled material in order to reduce waste. Additionally, the focus will be on clean energy sources and green infrastructure to lead the way ahead for the sector in 2020.
Technological Advancements
Technological advancements in the field of construction will be on the rise in 2020. There will be an increase in the use of robotics, virtual reality and 3D printing in construction. These methods will prevent wastage of time and resources. With the help of technology like 3D printing and virtual reality, construction firms can get a realistic idea of the design structures and determine what works and what doesn’t without having to employ labour and resources.
Additionally, the use of drones and mobile and cloud applications in the industry will also increase. Drones will help survey the multiple job sites, ensure delivery of materials, complete safety inspections and much more. Mobile and cloud apps, on the other hand, will be useful in remotely accessing important information including drawings, delivery schedules and installation instructions.
Use of SME’s
Another emerging trend in 2020 is the shift towards SME’s as opposed to large contractors. In the past few years failures among large contractors have given rise to this trend. In 2020, the public sector’s target of increasing procurement spend with SME’s has risen to 33 per cent.
Increasing Importance of Safety Equipment in Construction
The industry is making efforts to increase the overall safety standards for every construction worker. This trend will be on the rise all through the year. Fitness trackers and wearable technology will also be employed to monitor and ensure the safety of workers. Items like work boots connected to Wi-Fi and GPS, cooling vests and other personal protective equipment will be in high demand. Through Wi-Fi-connected boots, supervisors will be able to track the health of their team members and know if either one of them is too tired and overworked. With regards to items such as personal protection equipment, companies will need to ensure that they fit all employees properly. With more and more women entering the industry, it is essential to have PPE that fits every employee perfectly.