How Builders Intend to Use Off-Site Methods in 5 Years

In just one year, an increasing number of builders reported intent to utilize off-site construction within the next five years. Home Innovation’s recent study also surveyed builders on the main reasons why they would choose off-site construction. The top reason came down to speed with 33% of the 300 respondents citing it as the main reason. Cost or profitability came in second with 27% and in third, 25% of surveyed builders said there would be no benefits. Yet, just last year, the number of builders intending to use off-site methods for roof trusses was at 15%. A year later, it’s at 23%.

Surprisingly, only 6 percent of builders responded that lack of skilled Labor would be the key driver; the same number that said improved Quality would be key to continuing with, or switching to, offsite methods. The September survey also addressed how likely builders are to adopt 7 different offsite construction methods in the coming five years.

The findings were compared to a builder study Home Innovation conducted last year to learn whether COVID-19 has had an impact on builder preference for specific methods. Comparing answers from August 2019 to the most recent survey in terms of builder intent to increase usage of offsite methods, there was an increase year-over-year, with intent doubling or nearly doubling in a few categories. Trusses and open wall panels led the pack in builder intent to increase usage in the coming 5 years.

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