The benefits of 3D printing are undeniable. This disruptive technology has in fact never stopped, improving itself, arriving in large-scale construction and even in orbit. 3D printing is one of those dystopian-looking technologies, which however make dreams about a better future possible. The merit is all of the eco-sustainability, the speed of execution and the low prices. This can improve the lives of many people on earth and beyond. In fact, 3D printers have already made it possible to print most of the equipment useful for life in orbit and even food! But what if the houses were built in 3D? Here is everything need to know about the 3D printed house.
Home sweet home, even in 3D?
The 3D printed house is certainly beautiful and safe. Once it has been built. Indeed, it is safer, because 3D printing gives greater solidity to traditional materials. Not only. The first companies that built 3D printed buildings in China even in a single day ensure that these are more resistant to fires and natural disasters. Among other things, it remains cheaper, as well as faster production, solving the drama of those who cannot access the purchase of a house. Not only families and young people in difficulty, but also villages that could benefit from hospitals and schools, as well as healthier buildings.
Among the many pros there is also a greater possibility of creative expression. 3D printed house can take on different and all very artistic aspects. The same would be difficult to replicate with traditional construction methods. Not only. The “human” margin of error would be greatly reduced, as 3D printed buildings would enjoy optimal execution precision. The materials, sand and construction rubble, also make this type of housing eco-sustainable.
What about the cons?
So what stops this market? The answer is simple. A question of security standards and government permits. The 3D printed house to be defined safe should pass resistance tests over time, which at this moment are still question marks. Therefore, despite the buildings in China in 2020 and the first “tenants” in Europe in 2021 of an apartment for two, the procedures are not yet standardized and regulated. It is necessary to define guidelines for hydraulic and electrical integrity and for safety in a broad sense. Government regulations need to take action to make 3D printed homes an effective alternative to traditional ones.
In addition to the lack of regulation, there are other problems. One is the lack of 3D design professionals. The other is the inclusion of some materials in this type of projects. The layering procedure does not yet allow to add inserts of different materials.
How long would a 3D printed house last?
A traditional building if well maintained will last an average of 50/60 years. Without maintenance even 20/30.
A 3D building if inhabited would last up to 60 years. The Chinese company Winsun, a pioneer of these constructions, however, built 3D homes for quarantined subjects that had a shorter planned duration. It all depends on the “foundations” and on what the project itself envisages.
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