Experts
Modular Construction Gains Ground in Pandemic
Brief An estimated $200 billion worth of modular construction made up about 5.5% of total construction in pandemic-stricken North America last year, with much of that occurring in the western US and Canada, according to the Modular Building Institute. Detached homes...
How Tech is Helping to Build Our Future
Brief What began with the blend of data and geospatial technology in construction is continuing with new combinations of technical fields and disciplines, including artificial intelligence, writes Fakhar Khalid, chief scientific officer for Sensat. Khalid explores...
Soundproof Drywall: What is it and Does it Work?
Brief Is soundproof drywall worth the extra cost? After all, soundproof drywall is much more expensive than regular drywall. Specific drywall for soundproofing is a specialized product that may be worth the extra money depending on the scope and function of your new...
Resilience Plans are Key to Risk Management
Brief It would behoove developers and their contractors to include resilience as a vital risk-mitigation measure, as the threats posed by climate change accelerate and the value of construction disputes in North America soars, write Jessica Mederson of law firm...
Cons of Using Gipave to Repair and Resurface Road Pavements
Brief Research into the use of a graphene-enhanced asphalt ‘supermodifier’ has found that the additional upfront cost is more than compensated for by the increased lifespan of the repaired surface. Insight Research into the use of a graphene-enhanced asphalt...
Why Reinforced Concrete Requires Attention to Detail
Brief Reinforced concrete is a famously durable construction material, but misconceptions and poor construction practices can lead to failure. Hee Yang Ng examines common design and construction situations that merit special attention to avoid structural failures...
3 Structural Lightweight Concrete Myths Examined
Brief Lightweight concrete can be a useful solution for weight and durability challenges, but despite a long history several misconceptions about the material endure. Ken Harmon examines three prevailing myths, beginning with the subject of water absorption and how...
Study Finds Optimal Ratio of Nano-MgO for Concrete
Brief Researchers in India have found that adding no more than 4% magnesium oxide nanoparticles to concrete would considerably boost its durability by improving inhibition to porosity and fracture. Insight A paper published in Materials Today: Proceedings...
Key Factors of a Successful Concrete Repair Job
Brief ACI and the International Concrete Repair Institute have many resources to help builders repair concrete -- a process that involves thoughtful material selection, surface preparation and going beyond the symptoms of cracking to determine the scope of the...