Trends in the Carpenter Trade
Technology
The carpenter trade is constantly evolving with advanced innovations and technology for increased accuracy and efficiency. There is an increase in the use of digital technologies, 3D modeling, mobile devices, drones, GPS total station, robotic survey systems and software related to project management. Carpenters must be competent in digital technology to work with drawings and construction documents, and to do online research for materials and specialty products.
Health and Safety
Many companies in the construction industry are providing leadership in safety awareness and in the enforcement of safety policies on the project site. Safety training and the development of safety policies and procedures are being done by many companies in excess of regulations. Carpenters must be familiar with safety systems, such as confined space retrievals, awareness and fall arresting systems.
Tools and Equipment
There is an increase in the use of specialized power tools that are taking the place of some hand tools. Such tools as computer numerical control (CNC) routers, detail sanders, layout instruments (total stations), digital and robotic survey systems and laser levels are making the carpenters’ work more efficient. Oscillating tools are becoming popular because they make accurate cuts and are extremely versatile. Compressed gas-powered fastening tools are increasing in use due to their portability and efficiency. Mobile elevated work platforms and material handling equipment are replacing scaffolding and ladders on many project sites. Cordless tools are now commonplace and are improving in longevity, durability and torque.
Products and Materials
Products and materials used in construction continue to be improved to achieve higher efficiency and a longer life expectancy. Use of innovative mass timber materials such as cross-laminated timber (CLT), dowel-laminated timber (DLT), nail laminated timber (NLT) and glulam are an emerging trend in prefabricated building construction components such as posts and beams for on-site erection.
Building science is evolving, and with the vast array and complexity of building materials increasing, carpenters need to remain current on how to put them together in a unit that works and does not decrease their efficacy. Carpenters may be involved in the manufacturing or installation processes of mass timber material.
Some concrete forming systems are now made of plastics, composites and aluminium, making concrete forming more versatile and efficient. There continues to be an increase in the use of engineered forming systems such as insulated concrete forms (ICF).
Soundproofing systems are evolving with the introduction of sound transmission class (STC) assemblies including insulation products such as mineral wool insulation. These systems include soundproofing for many elements of construction including floors, walls and ceilings.
Countertop materials continue to diversify using materials such as stone, composite stone and concrete.
Environmental
There are a number of certification systems such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) that are becoming commonplace. Use of these environmentally friendly systems can influence the selection of building materials and products, and can include building techniques aimed at achieving increased energy-efficiency. These techniques include: net–zero energy (NZE), passive housing construction, building envelope technology and seismic considerations. These areas are advancing environmentally responsible construction. Low volatile organic compound (VOC) building products are increasingly being demanded by the public. Many of these changes are motivated by cost-benefit analysis that demonstrate long-term payback for these investments.
Legislative and Regulatory
The National Building Code of Canada (NBCC) and the National Energy Code for Buildings (NECB) are updated every five years. The most recent update will address climate change through an NZE model building code by 2030.
Other
Modular construction and prefabrication of construction components are increasingly popular in both residential and commercial construction. Carpenters are becoming more specialized in specific fields of carpentry. The mentoring of all levels of workers is becoming pronounced in the worksite and during apprenticeship technical training.