Improving The Look Of Concrete

The construction industry is consistently among the last to hop on the train of technology transformation. This time around, things are bound to turn around. Through the development of newer technology, concrete contractors are aiming at increasing efficiency in construction. This article explores some of the trends in concrete technology you should be on the lookout for this 2021. It could be nice if construction companies and concrete contractors embraced these new trends as they promise reduced construction costs and improved efficiency.

Project Management Software

There is construction management software developed specifically for concrete contractors. In the case of commercial projects, masonry and concrete contractors are tasked with setting the foundation. They provide site prepping, finishing, quality, and timely delivery. Traditional processes could result in project delays, thus additional expenses. With concrete construction project management, however, tracking real-time labor and production is possible.

BIM

Building information modeling (BIM) has been in existence forever, but it is constantly advancing like any other technology. The 3D design feature allows professionals to see the plan, design, and construction of their project. With the use of BIM, it will be easy to communicate the project's scope to the other project parties; thus, the efficiency of the building process increases. Each worker knows what is expected of them and therefore works hard to achieve the set objectives. Overall, BIM improves the supply chain and reduces mistakes, delays, and wastage.

Self-Healing Concrete

After construction, the concrete could weather, leak, bend, and develop cracks. This is where the idea of self-healing concrete must have come in. This concrete contains bacteria that produce limestone. Limestone repairs the cracks whenever there is contact with water and air. Together with concrete, the bacteria repairs even for existing structures. It does this with the help of repetitive dry and wet cycles. This can be best explained through capillary action.

Translucent Concrete

This is a trend that is slowly transforming the architectural look. The technology comprises fiber optics lodged between concrete and insulation layers. The fibers allow traversing of light to and from the inside. What makes it even better is that you can customize the concrete to suit your project's design and structural requirements. This way, you can choose the density and diameter of the fibers, which goes a long way to determine the transparency of your concrete.

Other trends in concrete technology to be witnessed in 2021 include the use of drones, 3D printing, and off-site fabrication. Maybe it is time the construction industry witnessed some evolution.