2024 Modular Construction Trends

Stream Modular

January 9, 2024

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The modular industry experienced substantial growth in 2023, driven by a variety of advantages derived from this method of construction. This growth is projected to continue through 2024 and beyond. This article spotlights some of the most anticipated modular construction trends, such as advances in technology, increased focus on sustainability, and greater access to hydraulic carriers.

Modular construction trend #1: Advances in technology

In 2024, advancements in digitalization, automation, and artificial intelligence will streamline processes and enhance project efficiency. Here is a look at a few of the pivotal technologies which may play significant roles in improving safety, costs, and project management.

Building information modeling (BIM)

As of 2023, the global BIM market is worth just over $8 billion and is projected to reach nearly $15 billion by 2027. This tool generates a virtual model of a physical building or structure which helps identify areas for improvement before finalizing designs. BIM use has consistently helped builders maintain budgets and schedules by reducing onsite time and effectively managing costs.

Artificial intelligence (AI)

BIM is at the core of digital twins, which have become essential in the construction process. By 2024, experts anticipate significant advancements in digital twin technology, integrating state-of-the-art AI and machine learning capabilities.

These advanced algorithms can automate repetitive tasks and complex processes, identify patterns in data, and predict outcomes. This facilitates more accurate project estimation, heightened operational efficiency, and better risk evaluation.

Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR)

AR allows an overlay of detailed digital information onto a real-world environment, providing the ability to visualize and interact with digital models and designs easily. During the construction process, AR can provide real-time, step-by-step instructions overlaid onto physical structures. This assists workers in assembling modular components accurately, reducing errors and improving overall construction efficiency. VR can offer a fully immersive experience to allow stakeholders to experience and review projects before they even begin. Both options offer a deeper understanding of a design and the ability to identify potential issues. Essentially, AR and VR create a visual blueprint beyond comparison.

Internet of Things (IoT)

In 2024, Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled sensors will connect a wide range of devices and equipment on construction sites. These embedded sensors turn modules into intelligent entities and ensure maximum efficiency and productivity. IoT devices can assist in managing inventory, enabling real-time tracking and efficient resource allocation. Furthermore, they will continuously monitor worker safety, ensuring a secure working environment.

3D printing

The creation of improved modular components thanks to 3D printing is another market growing at an incredible rate. Reports show a global CAGR of 100.7% through 2030 in this industry. The precision and speed of 3D printing, combined with the efficiency of prefabrication, results in intricate components that fit together like puzzle pieces. And, less manpower and time is an added bonus of this technology, often resulting in a lower price.

Drones

Drones main uses include surveying and inspection thanks to their ability to capture high-resolution images and create 3D models. This can help expedite site inspections, enhance quality control, and ensure projects stay on track. Additionally, drones can improve safety if used in place of humans for risky tasks in hazardous heights or environments.

When it comes to modular transportation, drones can conduct aerial surveys to map out transportation routes and assess the condition of roads, bridges, and other infrastructure. This information helps in planning the most efficient and safe transportation paths for modular components. Drones equipped with tracking systems can also monitor the movement of modular components in real-time.

Trend #2: Focus on sustainability

Sustainability will continue to be a driving force in 2024 modular construction trends. Manufacturers are investing more and more in eco-friendly materials, renewable energy sources, and more efficient processes to reduce waste and minimize the environmental impact of construction projects.

Innovative materials

Increased use of green materials such as recycled steel, reclaimed wood and bio-based composites will reduce carbon emissions and waste. Expect to see builders exploring diverse options to create environmentally responsible structures.

Energy-efficient technologies

Builders will integrate solar panels and smart grids more and more frequently into building designs to lower energy consumption and embrace renewable resources. Additionally onsite waste management technologies and recycling processes such as rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling are promoting resource conservation.

Zero net energy buildings (NZEBs)

The growth of sustainable construction will drive a rise in NZEBs. These energy-efficient buildings are designed to consume less energy, adopt renewable sources of energy, and are built using sustainable practices. These advancements will not only decrease operational costs but also contribute to a greener future.

Trend #3: Improved access to hydraulic carriers

Modular construction components require highly specialized transportation logistics. As such, many factories prefer hydraulic carriers, whose self-loading and unloading capabilities create a safer transport of the components. But, these specialized trailers have been difficult to source — until now.

In 2023, Stream Modular invested in building a custom fleet of hydraulic carriers as part of our continued commitment to contributing to the modular construction industry. Our hope was to alleviate the roadblocks to acquiring these specialized trailers and help transport more modules to their job sites safely and efficiently. With this surge of available hydraulic carriers on the market, we anticipate using them will be a driving trend in the industry in 2024.

The future of the modular construction industry

The emerging trends in technology, sustainability, and availability of hydraulic carriers hold great potential to optimize efficiency, minimize costs, and increase sustainability. The modular construction industry is undergoing a fast-paced, remarkable transformation fueled by the adoption of innovative practices and technologies.

Modular methodologies are rapidly gaining ground in the construction industry. With contractors increasingly embracing these approaches, we look forward to witnessing the industry’s progress in 2024. Companies like CombiLIft are facilitating the integration of these technologies, and those who invest today are positioning themselves for success in 2024 and beyond. It’s an exciting period for the modular industry.

As these anticipated trends unfold, they promise to redefine the construction landscape, making it more efficient, adaptable, and responsive to the evolving needs of society. If you are interested in learning more, connect with the specialists at Stream Modular for deeper insights into the evolving world of modular construction and the trends we expect to see in the future.

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Stream Modular is a transportation logistics company specializing exclusively in modular construction. We help modular manufacturers and builders transport mods, pods, and panels so they arrive on time and safely to the build site.