Adopting sustainable practices in the construction industry leads to less waste, better planning and a more efficient work environment — wins for everyone. One way to invest in your company's sustainability is through 3D scanning, a technology that uses lasers and photogrammetry to create an accurate virtual representation of a physical building.
In the construction industry, 3D scanning has several valuable applications. You can use this technology to reduce time in the field, take measurements more accurately and ultimately save on project costs.
Learn more about the benefits of 3D scanning for construction and how to incorporate it into your workflow.
3D laser scanning is one of many tools to consider for green construction practices. Traditional surveying methods take longer and aren't as precise compared to scanner technology. When you use a 3D laser scanner, you can capture a high level of detail very quickly. 3D scanners promote sustainability in construction in several ways.
Construction waste is costly for businesses and the environment. 3D scanning helps reduce waste for the construction industry through precision scanning and improved energy use. Here's what this looks like:
3D laser scanning is a tool used in building information modeling (BIM), a construction tool that creates a digital version of a building. This digital format allows you to plan construction projects in an eco-conscious way, taking materials, costs and timelines into consideration.
With laser scanning, you can approach construction projects in a more organized way, having figured out many of the details and precision measurements off-site. Planning tools like 3D laser scanning reduce waste and frustration, improving the construction process for your company and the environment.
You can use the information gathered from 3D laser scanning to improve material management, further reducing waste and balancing costs. Here's more about how that can look throughout the construction process:
Sustainability in construction projects extends beyond a project's initial build to its ongoing maintenance and end-of-life. 3D laser scanning can help reduce costs and improve planning both before and during the construction phase. However, the information you gain from using a 3D scanner can also help you ensure building materials will last the same amount of time, providing the best return on investment (ROI) for clients.
Thinking long-term is good for the construction industry, the companies paying for construction projects and the planet, where all construction materials must eventually be recycled, burned or buried. 3D laser scanners can help you plan a sustainable end for the materials used in construction projects. Material use and misuse are vital parts of responsible construction management.
Sustainable building design often requires meeting certain regulatory codes and certifications, such as LEED. 3D laser scanning can help you meet stringent building codes and environmental regulations through its high-precision measurements and data.
During the planning, construction and review process, 3D scanners help you meet environmental requirements and achieve the certifications you want for your project. With so many moving parts, attaining sustainable certifications like LEED can be challenging. 3D scanners are one of several tools that can help you stay on track and achieve green building practices.
One of the most important steps you can take to achieve these certifications is accurately tracking data. When it's time to register your project and request certification, you can fall back on the precise data you gathered through 3D scanning. This technology allows for much higher accuracy and has less room for human error, giving you a solid case for successful building certification.
The ability of 3D scanners to take fast, precise measurements can make each stage of construction easier, allowing you to plan with precision and reduce waste. To get started, you'll need a scanner, tripod, tablet and software. Here's a quick overview of how 3D scanning works:
Once the scanner has captured laser and photogrammetry data, the next step is to turn that data into a virtual 3D model of the space. Newer models do this for you, while some older scanner models may require you to manually enter the software and stitch scans together using shared points of interest.
At BuildingPoint SouthEast, we've been providing contractors and the construction industry with advanced technology since 2016. We are your exclusive Trimble dealer, empowering you to collect precise data and collaborate between the field and the office with sustainable 3D scanners.
Quality tools are an investment in your business that can offer a high ROI with saved time, precise project planning and increased sustainability. With 3D scanning, you can better steward company resources and have a positive impact on the planet. Reach out to BuildingPoint SouthEast and set up a demo to experience Trimble 3D scanners for yourself!