New Trends in the Construction Industry

In the wake of challenges facing the construction industry — such as labor shortages and rising costs — new trends are emerging to overcome hurdles. The processes for scheduling, hiring workers and ordering materials have all changed in recent years. As a business owner or contractor, keeping up with the trends in the construction industry is essential to stay competitive and leverage the latest innovations.

Jump to a section:

• Emerging Construction Industry Trends
• What Is the Latest Technology in Construction?

Emerging Construction Industry Trends

These emerging construction industry trends have the power to transform the industry. 

1. Transition to Electric

As municipalities across the country place regulations on gas-powered equipment, the construction industry is shifting toward the use of electric-powered equipment. Construction businesses and contractors may have already noticed the push for the electrification of compact excavators, compact loaders and skid steers. Additionally, the United States is committed to reducing carbon emissions, which is also expected to spur the electrification of the construction equipment market.

2. Skilled Labor Shortage

The U.S. economy has recently been affected by record inflation, supply chain issues and fewer workers. The construction industry has been impacted by the shortage of skilled labor, along with experienced workers retiring. Construction businesses are now seeking innovative ways to attract younger workers and implement technology that can help replace experienced workers who are leaving the industry. Some companies are implementing solutions that can allow a worker to operate heavy equipment remotely.

3. Rise in Green Buildings

Green buildings are another emerging construction industry trend. Designers and builders are seeking to develop eco-friendly structures, from greater energy efficiency to the use of non-toxic materials. Green buildings can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, energy consumption and water use. Contractors should also use sustainable materials and tools, such as cork, bamboo and wool carpeting. Sustainable materials can both benefit the environment and improve the occupants' quality of life, as they usually don't contain pollutants and harmful chemicals.

4. Advances in Building Materials

New building materials are being developed and proving to be more effective and durable than traditional materials. Additionally, these materials are becoming more affordable, making them a viable option for many contractors. For example, graphene is an advanced building material with many useful properties. This material is transparent, thin and made from carbon. It's stronger than steel and can be used for durable, lightweight coatings for buildings. Graphene can improve a building's energy efficiency and protect it from wear and tear and weather damage.

5. Shift to Autonomous Machinery

The use of autonomous machinery is increasing and helping to eliminate laborious, repetitive and dangerous work. Examples of autonomous machinery include robotic rebar tying and automatic grade control. Some machines may be operator assisted or fully autonomous with no need for an operator. Autonomous machinery can help operators in the construction industry become more productive, energy-efficient and fuel-efficient. 

6. Resurgence in Prefabricated Construction

Prefabricated construction is currently experiencing a resurgence in popularity. Rather than construction taking place onsite, the building elements of a prefabricated structure are manufactured at a different location before they are delivered to and assembled at the construction site. Prefabricated construction is likely becoming more popular due to the advantages it offers, such as:

• Less waste
• Lower labor costs
• Speedy construction times
• Reduced environmental impact

7. Increase in Rental Equipment Use

Contractors are renting more equipment due to supply chain issues and rising interest rates. Construction businesses are taking precautions as a result of rising material prices and a lack of skilled workers, which is why construction business owners are choosing to rent their equipment to increase their margins. Renting may be the right option for you if: 

• You lack storage space.
• You want access to the latest models.
• You have less money you can spend upfront.
• You will use the equipment for a short period.
• You want to skip maintenance responsibilities.
• You often operate more than one site at a time.
• You will only need the equipment for a short time.
• You want to try the equipment before you commit to buying.

Rental equipment is versatile and great for a growing construction business, allowing you to adapt and respond quickly to changes in market demands. Benefits of using rental equipment include:

• Skip the repair costs.
• Support your demand.
• Improve your cash flow.
• Lower your disposal costs.
• Control your project costs.
• Reduce your need for storage.
• Minimize your equipment fleet.
• Try the equipment before you buy it.
• Get the right equipment and tools for the job.
• Get access to the most up-to-date technology.

What Is the Latest Technology in Construction?

The following are some examples of the latest technology in the construction industry:

• Drones: Drones are one of the most popular technologies being utilized in the construction industry. Drones can be used in a wide range of tasks, such as mapping, safety inspections and site surveys. Many contractors are using drones for construction monitoring to reduce costs. Use a drone to map out a construction site before you begin the project to save time and money. Additionally, you can track the progress of your project and perform safety inspections to identify potential hazards.
• Digital twins: Digital twins technology is transforming the construction industry. The digital twin can create a virtual model of the project and update it in real-time. You can also use digital twin technology to simulate different scenarios and determine how you can efficiently build the structure and avoid costly errors. After you complete your project, you can use a digital twin to help with repairs and maintenance. 
• Construction robotics: Construction robotics is increasingly used in the construction industry. This technology can be used to accomplish time-consuming, repetitive tasks, allowing you to speed up the process. The use of construction robotics can also decrease losses due to fatigue and human error, ensuring safety in hazardous or risky environments. 
• Digital Information Management (DIM): Another one of the latest technology trends is known as Digital Information Management (DIM). DIM has evolved from Building Information Modeling (BIM) and enables better communication between project stakeholders. You can manage your information digitally.

Rent Equipment for Your Construction Projects From The Cat® Rental Store

At The Cat® Rental Store, we understand the current trends in the construction industry, including the increase in rental equipment use. Each of our machines is maintained meticulously, checked thoroughly and equipped with the newest technology. With our rental equipment, you can keep your operations efficient. Whether you operate in general construction, heavy construction, road construction or home construction, we have the equipment you need. Additionally, you can take advantage of our operating training and onsite support.

If you need guidance on the right solutions for your project, turn to our team of trained experts who can help you select and troubleshoot the equipment you need. Request a quick quote, or browse our equipment rentals from The Cat Rental Store today.