Linda Reisman has placed a substantial investment in the advancement of 3D printed homes in Canada. Faced with exorbitant quotes from traditional builders for constructing a home on her recently acquired land in Ontario’s Muskoka region, Reisman opted to utilize her savings of nearly $700,000 to acquire a robotic arm capable of 3D printing concrete walls layer by layer.
Expressing her confidence in the speed and efficiency of 3D printing technology, Reisman envisions the potential of printing walls in a single day with minimal labor requirements. While her initial plan involves using the robotic arm to construct the walls of her own residence, she also aims to extend this technology to help alleviate the housing shortage in the country by offering 3D printed homes to others.
Reisman’s introduction to 3D printing technology stemmed from government discussions emphasizing the necessity for innovation in housing, including the utilization of 3D printing, and the availability of government grants for those adopting this technology. Despite some developers incorporating 3D printing for a few housing projects nationwide, experts remain cautiously optimistic about the widespread adoption of this technique.
To complete a 3D printed home, Reisman acknowledges the need for collaboration from traditional builders, as her robotic arm solely focuses on printing walls. The integration of essential components such as doors, windows, roofing, plumbing, and electrical systems requires the involvement of skilled tradespeople, a challenge she faces in finding receptive Canadian contractors.
The successful implementation of 3D printing in the construction industry is exemplified by a townhome complex in Gananoque, Ontario, supported by funding from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). This development, facilitated by a robotic arm named Val and a small team, showcases the efficiency and affordability of 3D printed housing units, offering a solution to the housing crisis with a blend of innovation and cost-effectiveness.
As the industry evolves, Horizon Legacy, the construction automation company behind the Gananoque project, embarks on further initiatives to revolutionize housing construction. Working on a larger scale project with Two Row Architect in Ohsweken, Ontario, Horizon Legacy aims to create a three-storey complex entirely printed in 3D, setting a precedent for innovative construction practices in Canada.
While the promise of 3D printing technology in housing construction is evident, experts caution that transitioning an entire industry to adopt new methodologies requires time and meticulous planning. Addressing concerns about practicality in diverse climates and the need for comprehensive solutions, industry professionals emphasize a balanced approach that integrates various innovative housing strategies, including 3D printing, to address Canada’s housing challenges effectively.
