Construction firms are catching on to the value that drones – or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) – add to construction projects. In this article, we’ll explore some of the benefits of construction firms using drone technology.

Enhanced Accuracy

Drones have the capability to collect detailed, high-resolution images of construction sites, equipping construction firms with a level of accuracy that may not be feasible with traditional methods. This can be especially useful for surveying and mapping sites. Creating and updating topographical maps are traditionally expensive and time-consuming tasks that require critical attention to accuracy. By employing drones, which can map large areas of land, construction firms can create more precise and detailed maps, which can help with planning, design, and overall project management.

Increased Efficiency

Drones can quickly and easily capture data and images of construction sites, offering firms the ability to swiftly evaluate progress and identify any issues that may need to be addressed. This use of drone technology saves time and resources compared to more traditional approaches such as manual inspections or using manned aircraft. And because drones can cover vast areas in a shorter amount of time, construction firms are able to gather more data and make informed decisions faster.

Improved Safety

Drones provide an effective and economical way to monitor safety. Because drones can be used for site inspection and monitoring, the need for workers to engage in more physical tasks, like climbing scaffolds or ladders, can be reduced, thereby avoiding potential falls or other accidents. Additionally, drones can monitor hard-to-reach areas, capturing real-time information without risking health and safety of personnel. Drones can also help determine possible hazards and unsafe conditions, enabling workers to address them before they become problematic.

Better Communication

Construction firms can use drones to capture aerial footage, providing a visual representation that communicates site progress in a way that is easy to understand and keeps all parties, including clients and investors, on the same page. Drones can also help project leaders quickly identify malfunctions and breakdowns and communicate with equipment owners, who can take speedy action to assess issues, which can cut down on delays and added costs.

Cost Savings

Drones can help construction firms save money in many ways. Two significant money-saving attributes this technology provide are:

  • Labor costs: By using drones for tasks such as inspections and mapping, firms can reduce the need for workers to physically visit sites.
  • Problem identification: Drones can help identify issues promptly, which can prevent costly delays or rework later on in the project.

Increased Competitiveness

Construction firms can stay ahead of the curve by using drone technology. The construction industry is becoming progressively technology-driven, so the sooner firms embrace new tools and technologies, the better positioned they’ll be to succeed in the long run.

Daniel Kittell, CPA