As the popularity of 3D printing increases, it is becoming clear that it will change the future of construction. Using 3D printing, you can create solid objects based on a digital file. What makes it so incredible is that, unlike traditional architectural design, there is almost no limit to what 3D printing can do. If you can dream it, you can create it. And while 3D printing is not entirely ready to go commercial yet, it is only a matter of time before full-sized testing can be done.
At Del Zotto Products, we have been watching trends in the construction industry carefully, and have concluded that 3D printing could be an invaluable asset in the future. At the same time, there are some drawbacks to the technology when compared to precast concrete.
3D printed housing
In China, a company called Winsun recently claimed to have built 10 3D printed houses in a single day. More impressive than that is the fact that the houses only cost around $5,000 each to build. That’s much cheaper and faster than traditional construction methods. If this technology can be focused and perfected over time, it would make sense to use it to build affordable residential and commercial structures.
As 3D printing technology improves, we expect to see a rise in the use of this technology—not just for building houses, but also for creating utility structures, commercial buildings and so much more. However, it is clear that concrete’s strength cannot be beat. Although it may be cheaper and faster to build with 3D printing, it remains to be seen whether or not these structures can withstand the test of time and the onslaught of the elements.
Concrete has been around for thousands of years, and it isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. If you’re hesitant to invest in 3D printing, rest assured that you can continue to count on concrete in all its states and forms.
How do you feel about 3D printing? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Feel free to leave a comment below or give us a shout-out on social media! We look forward to hearing from you.