That robotization in construction will have a serious impact is pretty clear, but it probably won't happen nearly as fast as we think now. It will be a more gradual process. That humans will disappear from the construction site is also unrealistic. Rather, far-reaching implementation of robotization will strengthen the position of the construction worker. Just as was the case earlier with the introduction of robots in factories, for example, tasks will disappear and be replaced by new ones. Retraining and upskilling are therefore essential.
Deployment of masonry robots, for example, and the creation of 3D printed homes are really niche solutions at the moment. They will not turn the construction world upside down any time soon. Investment in the machines is high. Especially for smaller construction companies. And - not insignificantly - many construction sites are not sufficiently structured for robots and 3D printers to work safely. Such a machine can improvise poorly if something goes differently than planned. A clear structure and organization of the construction site is therefore very important. Waiting to invest in the technology, however, is not a good thing. Companies that have started to do so now will have a clear head start when deployment soon becomes commonplace.
So it makes sense for construction companies to be working on this. Now it is certainly the case that labor costs and local conditions, for example, make old-school construction more interesting, but that is no doubt going to change.
Not only robotization
There are undeniable benefits to roboticization of the construction site. However, it goes hand in hand with digitization of the whole sector, which is really moving very fast. Many - well-structured - construction sites are fully digitally monitored. Cameras and drones bring together large amounts of data into BIM models and digital twins that in turn ensure a well-run construction project. Prefab in factories away from the construction site contribute significantly to a structured construction process, with logistics playing an even more important role.
Talking to each other
So it will all come together in data streams. All the parts have to talk to each other for the best result. A masonry robot is one part in this concatenation of technologies. But one that can be at work day and night. Once properly adjusted will work more accurately than humans and can be used in unsafe locations such as high altitude.
Aging and rejuvenation
Perhaps it is a good thing that digitalization and robotization are making their advance. The construction industry is aging rapidly and the recruitment of young personnel is disproportionate to the outflow due to retirement and because of health issues. The average age of construction workers in the Netherlands is around 45. For carpenters and bricklayers it is even above 50.
Over the past 10 years, according to CBS, the recruitment of young personnel (under 30 years of age) has declined slightly, only widening the gap with older construction workers. However, it is expected that with targeted policies, intake programs and training, the trend can be reversed. However, it will then take at least another 10 years to get back to 2015 levels. Hands off, then.
On November 19 and 20, the second edition of DigiBouw will take place. DigiBouw 2025 offers inspiring sessions from top speakers and executives from the construction industry. Follow keynotes from frontrunners discussing the latest developments in digitization, sustainability and technology. Find out how your organization can benefit from these innovations and network with industry experts.
The first 100 registrants to visit DigiBouw can count on a discount of no less than 30% on the admission price of the day package (lunch, coffee and tea).
