The construction industry is changing with time. With each passing year, new trends appear, new technological tools are released, and sustainable materials are engineered. For the most part, the construction industry's future looks bright. However, there are a few problems that can be expected to start now and running into the future. Anyone running a construction company needs to stay abreast of construction industry statistics and emerging trends to be ahead of the competition. Most of the emerging trends in the construction industry make work easier and make project management a cinch. Because some of the trends might be costly to implement, you need to be careful with the trends in the construction industry US so you can implement the right ones. Here are likely trends in 2020 and beyond.

Construction Industry Growth Projections

The construction industry, like many other industries, is anticipated to grow during 2020 and beyond. The growth will come in many aspects, as discussed below.

More Use of Technology

Technology has taken over many industries. However, due to the high cost of integrating technology, the construction industry has stayed immune to the technological advancements that are sweeping over other sectors. However, the increased use of drones and 3D printing has elicited the need for improvements in technology in the construction industry.

In Dubai, for instance, contractors were able to print a 3D prefabricated office building in 17 days. In the future, most building companies might embrace 3D printing and the use of drones. This way, precise construction is enabled. Self-driving cars can also be expected in the construction industry.

As the industry uses more and more technology, construction superintendents will be expected to exhibit software proficiency. Learn more about the construction superintendent role from this source.

More Prefabricated and Modular Houses will be Seen

While prefabrication and modular construction are not new trends, they have only gained popularity recently. Everywhere around the world, industries are moving towards sustainability, and the construction industry has not been left behind. Both prefabrication and modular construction save energy and costs. Because houses are made in a regulated environment off-site, there is more accuracy. Again, if you need to create a project very quickly, prefabrication is one way to do it.

Greater Focus on Sustainability

Sustainable and long-lasting materials are now available to save the environment. While the materials might be expensive, companies that implement sustainable development projects find themselves gaining more clients. In 2020 and beyond, most construction companies will shift their focus to sustainability. Even though all materials and projects might not have benefits to the environment, a few materials such as recycled sheets and self-healing concrete will find their way into the construction industry.

Greater Focus on Safety and Building Codes

Construction workers need to stay safe, and buildings need to be safe for the occupants. In the past few years, construction regulations and safety codes have become stricter. This will continue in 2020 and beyond. Besides more stringent regulations, advancements in technology have seen the development of safe tools and safer environments for construction workers. Mobile apps and constriction management software have made it easier for workers in construction sites to adhere to safety guidelines.

The Use of Project Management Software and Mobile Apps

Today, there are so many apps that contractors can use to manage projects. Over the years, this software and apps have significantly improved to offer comprehensive features to manage a project from planning to closeout. Companies that have already embraced these apps enjoy project transparency, efficiency of operation, and accountability. As a manager using the management software, you are not only able to manage every employer but also avoid construction industry problems.

Expected Problems with the Construction Industry

The construction industry will grow, but construction industry growth is expected to be slower than in other industries. There is limited spending in both residential and commercial sectors, and this might cripple the growth of the industry. Slow growth is just one of the construction industry problems. While the construction industry’s salaries will grow, a few problems, as outlined below, can be expected.

Labor Shortages

The construction industry's salaries will grow, but the industry might still have a shortage of workers. During the economic downturn, the construction industry in the US lost about two million workers – it has ever since struggled to get the number up. The industry is unable to attract top talent to meet its demands, and this is crippling development.

According to a study by AGC, construction firms are finding it challenging to find skilled workers. The situation might continue in 2020 and beyond.

A decline in Productivity Levels

Many industries have increased their productivity levels many times over, up to 15 times. However, since the '50s, productivity levels in the construction industry have remained the same. According to current measurements, productivity levels in the industry have declined consistently since the 1960s.

Slow Adoption of Technology

The construction industry will adopt technology. However, the rate at which this typically happens is very slow compared to other industries. This is one of the problems with the construction industry. There is minimal investment in technology. While many other industries have used management software for ages, the construction industry is just starting to use the software at comparable levels.

Other technologies that have been in use in the construction industry include BIM, mobile devices, and telematics. However, technologies such as VR, AR, robots, drones, the Internet of Things, 3D Printing, and wearable computing devices are taking more time to be adopted. Some companies have adopted these latest technologies, but most companies are still struggling with traditional tools and equipment.

Conclusion

The construction industry's future lies in the hands of construction companies and their willingness to adopt technology and move with trends. With technology, most of the problems experienced in sites such as accidents and injuries will be avoided. However, most companies are not willing to start using the latest technologies, such as robotics, due to the high initial cost. Nevertheless, most companies are moving towards the adoption of technology. Though the trend is slow, in a few years, AR and 3D printing might rock the industry. Looking at the construction industry statistics on the Bureau of Labor Statistics, anyone who needs to pursue a career in the construction industry is guaranteed a spot.