AI in Construction: How Companies Are Building for the Future

There is no escaping the rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI). While many have used it for years, countless industries worldwide are just now beginning to adopt this technology into their daily work, and the construction sector is no exception. The global AI in construction market is valued at USD 3.93 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow from USD 4.86 billion in 2025 to reach USD 22.68 billion by 2032.

But what exactly is AI used for in construction, and which tools are available? Below, we explore AI solutions for home construction professionals and learn from experts who share how they use AI to streamline their work.

How to Use AI in Construction: Key Technologies and Tools

1. Project Planning and Design

AI can process and analyze vast amounts of real-time data, improving the accuracy and efficiency of planning. It takes into account environmental impact, geographical factors, historical project data, and scheduling to create more reliable blueprints. AI algorithms can adjust project timelines dynamically when faced with unexpected events like natural disasters, labor strikes, or supply chain disruptions.

• Generative design: AI tools generate multiple building or infrastructure design options based on budget, material availability, and sustainability goals.

• Building Information Modeling (BIM): Building information modeling (BIM) is a digital process used to improve design and construction. AI further enhances BIM by creating 3D models that provide insights for better planning and decision-making processes.

• Digital twins: Virtual replicas of buildings use AI and machine learning to simulate scenarios like structural stress or energy consumption, helping teams predict problems before breaking ground.

Key tools: ALICE Technologies, Civils, WeVisu, Togal.Al

2. On-Site Work

AI technologies are also revolutionizing construction sites with automation, robotics, and real-time monitoring.

• Robotics: When you think of AI and future technology, many people think of robots. And while they do already exist, they are not yet so commonplace in construction. However, some companies are setting the pace for such tech. For example, Australian company FBR has developed a bricklaying robot which they call Hadrian X. As they state on their website it “corrects for movement and vibration in real-time, allowing Hadrian® to lay blocks precisely - even outdoors.”

• Drones with AI-powered cameras: Drones can be used in a multitude of ways to make construction more efficient and safe. It can use AI sensor technology to identify potential dangers. AI-powered cameras on drones can capture aerial images to provide real-time updates on progress.

• Safety monitoring: Thanks to AI-powered sensors and cameras, safety on worksites is improving. The sensors and cameras can detect and identify potential hazards, such as  lack of safety equipment and gear or unsafe practices. It can also identify patterns to help predict safety issues. 

Key tools: Doxel, Buildots, AI Clearing, OpenSpace

3. Equipment and Materials Management

Keeping machines running and materials flowing is critical, and AI is making both more efficient.

• Predictive maintenance: AI can be used to predict when equipment will need maintenance, aptly known as predictive maintenance. By monitoring the condition of construction equipment and machinery in real-time, AI can estimate when maintenance is necessary. 

• Supply chain optimization: AI forecasts material demand, automates ordering, and reduces waste or theft through smart tracking.

Key tools: Field Materials AI, Krane

4. Workforce and Productivity

AI also plays a role in workforce management, helping improve efficiency and productivity.

• Workforce scheduling: AI platforms can match workers to tasks based on qualifications, availability, and safety records. 

• Productivity analysis: AI tracks workflow, identifies bottlenecks, and helps managers make adjustments to improve performance.

Key tools: Kwant, SmartBarrel, Inncircles

5. Cost and Compliance

Budgeting and regulations are among the most challenging aspects of construction, and AI is helping to streamline both.

• Cost estimation: AI-driven tools leverage historical data and real-time pricing to generate more accurate budgets and reduce the risk of overruns.

• Compliance automation: AI can scan building codes, zoning laws, and permitting requirements to flag potential issues early, avoiding costly delays.

Key tools: Specbook, Docubuild, Document Crunch, Adaptive, Togal.Al

6.  Post-Construction and Maintenance 

AI continues to add value even after construction is complete. Using AI-powered tools, companies can optimize building performance, reduce maintenance costs, and improve long-term sustainability.

• Facility management: AI analyzes real-time data from sensors and IoT devices to monitor building systems, detect malfunctions early, and schedule predictive maintenance to minimize downtime.

• Energy optimization: Machine learning algorithms can predict energy usage patterns, reduce environmental impact, and generate recommendations for more cost-effective operation.

• Asset management: AI-based platforms help track equipment and materials, enabling more informed decisions regarding replacement cycles or upgrades.

• Lifecycle planning: AI can simulate different scenarios on building blueprints to optimize longevity, anticipate repair needs, and open new opportunities for sustainable management.

How Common Is AI in Construction? Experts Reveal How They Use It

We spoke to residential construction companies to understand exactly how they are incorporating AI into their work process. While many are still yet to begin using AI, here are what those who have embraced AI said are some of the different ways they are using it. 

Blog Content and Marketing

At the end of 2022, the world became captivated by the power of AI technologies like ChatGPT. This language model can allow users to complete various tasks, such as writing articles. One area of the construction industry that we cannot forget about is marketing. Companies have marketing strategies and this includes online blog content. Rick Berres, Owner of Honey Doers, says that “We have used AI to cut down on the time that it takes to publish blog content. Our writer has AI create the framework of a piece, then edits, fact-checks, and humanizes it.” Likewise, Eric Corey Freed says that his company, CannonDesign, uses “ChatGPT for writing needs.” Elsewhere for marketing purposes, Jeff Pelletier explains how his company, Board & Vellum, “are using it to create first drafts of marketing collateral.”

Client Engagement 

If clients are constantly getting in touch the last thing you want is to have queries going unanswered. AI can help alleviate the manpower needed to message clients back. For example, Rick Byrd, Owner of Byrd Design & Build, says “AI-powered chatbots can handle customer inquiries, provide real-time assistance, and offer personalized recommendations.” Kyle Shirley, Owner of Sol Vista Roofing, also shared, “We have used AI phone answering agents for taking client calls with mixed results. We use AI chats in our office in experimental ways to try and find answers to complicated questions.”

Project Management

A key area where AI can be very helpful to workers in construction is project management. There is an array of different aspects where AI can come into play. For example, Byrd says “AI can streamline project management by automating administrative tasks, scheduling, and resource allocation. AI can analyze vast amounts of data related to customer preferences, market trends, and project performance to identify patterns, make predictions, and inform decision-making.” Michael Feazel, CEO of Roof Maxx, adds that “Tools like project management software and automated layout systems have really helped reduce inefficiencies and allowed our dealers to get more done with smaller crews.”

Jeremiah Russell, Principal & Architect, at ROGUE Architecture, shares that they use “Motion App for project management. It automatically updates our calendar tasks based on availability.” While Charles Hendricks, Architect at Gaines Group Architects, uses AI for “billing sorting and coordination.”

3D Models

While some construction firms are just starting to test out how they can best implement AI, others have already taken a multipronged approach. Artem Kropovinsky, Interior Designer and Founder of Arsight, an interior design studio based in New York, says that they are using AI for a range of tasks. One of which is to generate 3D models of spaces, saying “This allows us to create photorealistic visualizations of our designs, which helps our clients to better understand and visualize their space before any work is done.” 

Measuring and Planning

One of the most immediate impacts of AI has been in reducing manual work and optimizing workflows. Wes True, General Manager & Operations at Pella Omaha, explains that his company has eased labor pressures by leveraging technology, noting, “Some amount of the labor demand has been addressed by technology — there is software that can optimize measurements or project planning, saving you dozens of hours of manual work.” Kropovinsky goes on to explain how his company is automating tasks: “AI can automate many of the tedious tasks involved in interior design, such as measuring and drafting plans. This frees up our time to focus on more creative and strategic work.” 

Idea Generation

As well as performing tasks, AI can also provide insights and generate ideas. Kropovinsky continues by stating that “AI can analyze data to provide us with insights into our clients' needs and preferences. This helps us to create designs that are tailored to their individual needs. AI can [also] generate new ideas for designs, which can help us to break the mold and create something truly unique.”

Benefits and Challenges of Using AI Technology in Construction

Like any new technology, AI brings both opportunities and obstacles to construction. Here’s a quick look at the key benefits and challenges side by side.

Time to Embrace AI in Construction

As we have heard firsthand from experts currently working in the construction industry, AI is improving the way companies work. Looking forward, it is going to play a more pivotal role in the construction process, from planning, research, and marketing to building and project management. By adopting AI technology, companies can reduce downtime, improve safety, and make cost-effective choices. While AI is not perfect, its rapid advancements make it clear that exploring its use in construction is now essential.

FAQ

AI is used in project planning, cost estimation, and scheduling by analyzing large data sets for efficiency. On-site, AI powers robotics, drones, and safety sensors. It also improves equipment maintenance, supply chain management, and post-construction operations like energy efficiency and facility management.

There isn’t a single “best” AI for construction. Different tools excel at different tasks. Some AI-powered tools help with project management and collaboration, others with design, cost estimation, or site monitoring. Choosing the right AI depends on your company’s needs, such as improving efficiency, tracking progress, optimizing materials, or enhancing safety.

Yes. ChatGPT can assist with drafting construction project documentation, RFIs, proposals, safety protocols, training materials, and customer communications. It can also help construction managers research regulations, summarize reports, or even generate task checklists. While it won’t replace specialized AI for scheduling or site monitoring, it complements those tools.

AI is more likely to augment than replace workers. Robots and AI handle repetitive or dangerous tasks (like bricklaying, welding, or inspections), but skilled tradespeople are still essential for problem-solving, complex work, and oversight. In the short term, AI will reduce labor shortages and improve safety. In the long term, it may shift job roles toward supervision, tech integration, and maintenance of AI systems rather than eliminate workers altogether.