3D-Printed Buildings, the Future of CRE?

The world of CRE is one that is always evolving and that means we all need to be paying closer attention. Especially to the new up and coming techniques, tools, and trends that make their way into this world. One of which is 3D-printing, what was once a cool and fun trend for duplicating small objects, figurines, and toy like creations, has evolved into much more.

3D-printing is attracting the attention of real estate professionals for a number of reasons, but one that seems to be the key selling point is its affordability. Developers around the world have been able to construct fully functional homes in developing countries using these giant 3D-printers at a fraction of the price it costs to build properties here in the U.S. at anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000.

“3D printing buildings is an interesting emerging technology but is, unfortunately, years if not decades away from being viable in the United States,” Carrier Johnson + CULTURE Digital Practice Manager Casey Mahon stated. And he’s not wrong, unfortunately many are still somewhat hesitant to start 3D-printing buildings… and for good reason. The technique itself in terms of printing sound structures is still in its beginning stages.

There are a number of building codes that all structures must follow which still would need to be set into place and followed by 3D-printed buildings and unfortunately 3D-printing just isn’t ready for that. Putting in place the appropriate codes and training inspectors to come in and examine a 3-D-printed building to insure that it is sound, safe and long lasting may take some time, but this shouldn’t stop the CRE world from exploring its possibilities.

How does it work? Well there are two ways that buildings are created, either on-site or at a warehouse. Regardless these giant sized printers work around the clock to build properties using a number of different materials, for example: concrete, steel, plastic, wood, and bamboo. 3D-printers will essentially scan the blueprints of a property and bring a three dimensional replica to life by first using softened concrete to create the structure layer after layer. Helping cut down on labor and the high costs that can be associated with construction, 61.8% of a home’s price is associated to the construction, labor, and materials according to thee Observer.  

To learn more about 3D-printing and how it will revolutionize CRE visit, https://www.bisnow.com/national/news/construction-development/3d-printed-buildings-a-fad-or-a-viable-cost-saving-solution-for-developers-87022?rt=56914 .