The social distancing requirements for construction companies vary by location, but only essential projects are allowed in many places. Construction will gradually return to normal as the coronavirus outbreak subsides, but the industry can expect major changes and innovations. The following trends are very likely in the construction industry after COVID-19:
Prefabrication could be used in more projects. The speed of prefabrication is being demonstrated when field hospitals for coronavirus are deployed within days. After the outbreak, developers who had their projects delayed can use prefabrication to recover some time. Another advantage of prefabrication is taking construction to a factory environment, improving quality and reducing interaction among crews.
The use of drones for site survey and project supervision could increase. When visiting an essential construction project during the coronavirus outbreak, supervisors can use drones to minimize personal interaction. Using drones is also a safer and more efficient option, even when social distancing is not an issue.
Indoor air quality could receive a higher priority in construction projects. IAQ is important, but other project aspects like cost and energy efficiency tend to get more attention. This could change after coronavirus, as companies give more importance to a healthy built environment. More developers could start applying for the relevant certifications in their construction projects.
This is an opinion article, and nobody can predict how construction will change after the coronavirus emergency. However, we believe these trends are likely.
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