ARTICLE
LATEST COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION TRENDS
BUILDING TRENDS TO LOOK OUT FOR IN 2022
With various new challenges and opportunities looming near, it is more crucial than ever to keep on top of commercial construction industry trends. Here are five areas we anticipate will see drastic changes in 2022:
METHODS & PRODUCTS
In 2022, commercial construction teams can anticipate several industry trends that will change their daily practice and the products they use.
One of the major trends we’ve seen in recent years that will continue is an increased focus on worksite safety habits. Since COVID-19, facemasks, onsite temperature scans, regular coronavirus testing, and increased workplace cleanliness have become the industry standard.
Another change in methodology in 2022 is an increase focused on modular construction. More often, commercial teams will be constructing modules of a building off-site and then transporting them to the destination for assembly.
In addition to changes in methodology, 2022 may also bring new products to the construction market. For example, an increased number of construction workers may start wearing industrial exoskeletons. These full-body suits provide significant strength amplification and also reduce strain-related injuries. Other new products in 2022 may include redesigned protective equipment for women workers. In the past, manufacturers created all personal safety wear for men’s bodies. Now, there are options for women workers that are more comfortable and better fitting.
INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY
2022 will bring a variety of new technological innovations to a variety of fields, and the commercial construction industry is no exception.
One of the big technology trends in 2022 is going to be 3D printing. Today, 3D printing of materials, building components, and parts for commercial construction equipment is in full swing. Although we aren’t 3D printing homes on a mass scale yet, there are examples of mansions and office buildings being 3D printed in record time. In addition, 3D printing holds lots of potential for low-income and emergency houses, as the current cost of a 3-D printed home is impressively affordable. The reduction in waste, shorter turnaround times, and the ability to mass print custom designs mean 3D printing is a industry trend to have on your radar for 2022.
In addition to 3D printing, robots are making waves in the commercial building industry. Some robots perform layout tasks at sites more efficiently than traditional mechanical systems. Each construction company must investigate and determine which robotic solutions make the most sense for helping with time-consuming and labor-intensive tasks.
Also, drones are increasingly employed to inspect hard-to-reach areas, and robots have emerged that handle labor-intensive tasks such as bricklaying and scaffolding without causing injury.
The use of smart contracts is another promising innovation trend for 2022. They enable all participants in a project to buy, track, and pay for services in one system. This results in increased security, better project tracking, and an automated supply chain.
SUSTAINABILITY
One upcoming trend in 2022 is an increased effort to increase sustainability and “go green.” Innovators have found new ways to reduce CO2 emissions that come from manufacturing building products. Others have come up with solutions to create commercial construction products out of recycled materials. As a result, 2022 will also see an increase in green building attitudes. You can expect green landscaping to become even more important to homebuyers. Moreover, building multistory projects horizontally instead of vertically becomes a more logical choice. In a world increasingly concerned about climate change and how it can be mitigated, sustainable commercial construction trends will remain hot topics.
HIRING
Despite the slow growth expected for this year, a recent study revealed commercial construction companies plan to expand their workforces in 2022.
However, most companies expect hiring challenges when attempting to fill vacant positions. They reported that sourcing workers for salaried and hourly jobs are challenging. Demand for commercial construction services has increased in recent years, but the number of laborers has not.
In light of the steadily declining number of commercial construction workers, firms have to work harder with fewer laborers. Workflow automation and adding more construction equipment can help your commercial team maximize productivity. Another solution is to invest in your team by setting up training programs, certifications, and apprenticeships, offering bonuses and performance-based incentives, and paying competitive salaries.
BUDGET CONSTRAINTS
Unfortunately, in 2022 many commercial construction companies may feel increased pressure on their bottom line. Despite construction revenues rising in previous years, net profits in the industry remain slim. Typically, earnings before interest and tax account for only a tiny percentage of income. Adding to the problem is the rising cost of building materials such as concrete and bricks.
With the price of goods expected to increase in 2022, commercial building companies need to examine areas to optimize profits.
Some cost saving options that companies can look into during 2022 include:
- Renting Equipment: This allows your company to keep pace with technological advancements at lower price points.
- Using Technology to Reduce Budgetary Excess: Finding tech that can perform tasks faster and more efficiently can drastically cost savings.
