Commercial Construction Trends
The unprecedented global pandemic in 2020 disrupted almost all industries this past year. Now as we close out the crazy year that was 2020, Green Heart Enterprises is looking ahead to 2021 and what that means for the commercial construction industry.
The construction industry, much like other industries, saw the rise of remote working, requirements for social distancing, and disruption in supply chains. Given the slowed economy throughout 2020, commercial construction also slowed. However, some key trends stand out as we look to commercial construction in 2021.
Safety Is Paramount
One of the biggest trends in commercial buildings, as we move into the new year, will be not only job site safety but also the implementation of virus protection safety measures. Solutions like barriers or barricades and security fences will become more commonplace. Amenities like automatic or touchless hand dryers, soap dispensers, faucets, and more will be the new standard. With social distancing requirements continuing into the new year, projects for in-office infrastructure to accommodate that is poised to boom. What’s more, contractors will have to adjust to changes in how many workers can be on a job site and how physically close they can work.
Renewed Focus Sustainability
Most commercial construction projects strive to incorporate sustainability to reduce waste and energy consumption. However, today more than ever, improving sustainability to ultimately improve profitability is paramount. Everything from energy-efficient retrofits and conscientious material selection, to construction waste management, is being evaluated. Commercial contractors will continue to look for efficiencies as will building owners and managers that are looking to ultimately save money.
Modular Construction & Prefab
Almost an extension of the sustainable construction trend, modular construction, and pre-fab buildings should see a significant boost post-pandemic. One of the biggest benefits of building with modular construction is that it consumes less energy on job sites. Pre-fab structures are created offsite and once complete, transported, and installed with ease. Modular construction also tends to be conducive to social distancing requirements and the equipment used lends itself to a smaller workforce. As lifts and cranes are used to move large components, contractors and workers are naturally more distant.
Diminished Subcontractor Resources
The construction industry has faced labor shortages in the past. However, the impact that the pandemic has had on the economy is unlike anything we have seen before. Many contractors and subs struggled to make it through 2020 and unfortunately, a large number of companies shuddered due to the pandemic. Contractors may need to handle work they historically relied on subs for as we will likely continue to see a labor shortage in the industry through early 2021.
Ultimately, all signs point to a long road to recovery for the commercial construction industry. However, as investments in commercial construction continues to shift we look forward to the positive change this may bring.