Smart Construction

New homes are currently constructed with a pre-manufactured value – that is, the proportion of components made off site – of approximately 40%. Windows and roof structures are typical examples in traditional builds. But there are a range of technologies available that can deliver up to 70% premanufactured value. Increasing the proportion of pre-manufactured components radically improves the speed of delivery, with groundworks and construction occurring in parallel to the major build phase and main elements built in a quality-controlled environment. Typical examples include:

Panellised

Commonly pre-manufactured from timber in both open and closed panels, light-weight pre-galvanised steel, cross-laminated timber, hot rolled steel or pre-case concrete as 2D elements and assembled on site.

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS)

Manufactured panels which are made from layers of different materials.

Volumetric Construction

The offsite production of three-dimensional building sections, which are delivered to site and installed onto foundations. Sometimes external coverings such as a brick skin or roof tiles may be added onsite.

Sub-assemblies and Components

Such as wiring looms, bathroom pods, brick slips, flooring cassettes.

Advances in materials and building physics allow designers to design high-performing homes that are comfortable to live in and low on energy use. Applied at scale, smart construction will reduce running costs, while improving delivered quality, performance and durability of the home. This helps to reduce the overall whole life cost of the building — a considerable benefit to both investors and occupants.

• By using advanced materials and techniques, we can improve the performance of a building.
• By improving the energy efficiency of a home, we can reduce the running costs.
• By improving the durability of a home, we can reduce maintenance costs.
• By improving indoor air quality, visual, thermal and acoustic comfort – alongside boosting energy performance – we can enhance the overall wellbeing of the occupants

Using smart construction allows those involved with design and planning to fully explore ideas, concepts, processes and materials while maintaining a degree of flexibility. It also allows designers to integrate the design and fabrication process more than traditional construction methods, meaning minimal recycling and the elimination of waste.