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An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a secondary living space that is attached to a primary residence. This can be anything from a garage, a new basement, an attic, or even a Zumba studio. These homes are not only cost-effective—they also can last for years with regular maintenance.
Here are the top 3D printed ADU builders you should check out if you wish to remodel or expand your home and increase its value:
Mighty Buildings
Mighty Buildings is based in Oakland, CA, and is known for building technologically advanced and sustainable ADU homes using patented 3D printing technology as well as robotics automation.
The company’s high-tech resources allow it to build modular homes much faster than its traditional counterparts.
Its 3D printers use special thermoset composite material that is resistant to UV light.
What We Like About It
Besides being certified under California’s Factory Built Housing program, Mighty Builders is also the first organization to meet U.K. 3401 standards for examining structures and assemblies.
The company is also backed by notable organizations and investors from Silicon Valley, including Zeno Ventures.
Boxabl
Boxabl is revolutionizing affordable housing due to its foldable 3D ADU structures and other sustainable housing options.
Its original product, Casita, comes with a full-sized bathroom, tall ceilings, big windows, and even kitchen appliances.
The company’s main aim is to drastically reduce housing costs by using assembly-line mass production techniques so their customers can get fully-constructed and sustainable homes sooner rather than later.
What We Like About It
The company re-engineers buildings by choosing different materials and manufacturing methods that make its structures outperform fire resistance, wind resistance, and energy rating standards.
Its original plant fabricated one house every 90 minutes.
One of the first products was a 20 x 20 prefab studio apartment that could be installed in a backyard in under an hour.
ICON
ICON is a 3D ADU builder that is passionate about advancing the state of home construction and making it as affordable as possible without sacrificing efficiency.
In 2008 it became the first company to secure a building permit to create a 3D printed home, and it has attracted hordes of investors ever since.
ICON leveraged that support to develop software and robotics technology that has driven a number of their projects.
What We Like About It
ICON uses a special Vulcan construction system that can produce homes and structures that are up to 3,000 square feet (278.71 square meters), and each one is built to International Building Code (IBC). These last longer than concrete masonry unit (CMU) structures.
PERI 3D
PERI was founded back in 1969 by Artur Schwörer and his wife, Christi.
Over the years, the company expanded into 3D ADU homes to make the construction process easier, more reliable, and safer.
The company has headquarters in Weißenhorn, Germany, where it produces new system devices.
What We Like About It
The main aim of all PERI developments is the complete integration of formwork and scaffolding solutions in BIM simulations to ensure optimized solutions for each project.
Plus, the company provides accurate technical documentation such as implementation drawings as well as verifiable statistical calculations.
Apis Cor
Apis Cor is one of the first ADU builders to develop special 3D equipment that can print whole buildings onsite.
Its aim is to upgrade that technology so it can create buildings on Earth and beyond. The company is known for its 3D printer, which can be transported to different sites due to its compact design.
What We Like About It
The Apis Cor 3D printer is almost completely automated and requires just two people to run, which cuts down on the manpower you need to pay for.
Plus, it can be installed in just half an hour, after which it gets to work. The technology cuts down costs by about 40% compared to traditional building techniques.
Winsun
Winsun is one of the ADU builders focused on constructing and decorating large-scale public buildings such as stadiums, theaters, conference halls, industrial parks, and even clubs.
More than 400 national landmarks have been constructed in China using its products, including the National Grand Theatre, the Dubai government office building, and the Phoenix media Beijing building.
What We Like About It
Winsun uses special reinforced concrete (SRC) developed on its own for the structures it creates.
The concrete not only makes buildings resilient against harsh weather conditions but also provides insulation.
CyBe Construction
CyBe Construction was founded by now CEO Berry Hendricks, and by 2014 it had successfully created printable concrete, which is patented as CyBe MORTAR.
The company also regularly creates different printing systems and recently started 3D printing furniture big and small.
What We Like About It
CyBe also works as a general contractor, meaning it takes responsibility for entire construction sites.
It’s contracting efforts include organizing vendors, trades and ensuring all involved parties are in constant communication with one another.
The company also hires specialists to advise and contribute to heating, air, plumbing, painting, and roofing requirements.
WASP
3D ADU builders, WASP, is known for its economical and versatile 3D printer – PowerWASP – which is used to mill wood and aluminum. It can also be used to print ceramic mixtures.
The company also boasts a range of 3D Delta WASP printers that meet small and large printing needs.
The aim of Wasp is to build ‘zero-mill’ homes using materials that can be found in nature.
What We Like About It
WASP owns the first service in Italy for 3D printing of large materials via an industrial warehouse that is thousands of square meters in size.
Its main aim is always to tackle large prints using its technology.
The headquarters is also a showroom where you can see the full range of WASP products at work, and how its fabrication process differs from other ADU builders.
SQ4D
SQ4D specializes in printing full-sized 3D houses that are faster, safer, and stronger without the cost.
The company built and uses a gantry-style 3D printer that can be used to build complete commercial and residential buildings.
Its special ARCS system was designed to be sustainable on and off job sites, and it can be used to create more than buildings.
What We Like About It
The ARCS 3D printer used by the company employs about the same amount of electricity as a standard hair dryer, and its carbon-neutral building process also ensures eco-friendly construction.
The entire process used to print structures is highly automated, meaning it doesn’t waste materials.
SLIK Build
SLIK Build is based in Australia, and the company specializes in building 3D concrete structures and homes.
Founder and Director Tom Macrokanis ensures that the machines used by the organization are eco-friendly and meet the highest possible energy ratings.
What We Like About It
SLIK offers a range of concrete products at a square meter rate which allows customers to save money.
This includes reduced overheads since they don’t have to use any heavy machinery, molds, or additional labor, making it ideal for small, custom, and complex projects.
Criteria for Selecting the Best 3D-Printed ADU Builder
Selecting the right builder is paramount to ensure a smooth and successful 3D-printed ADU. Here are several key criteria to consider when evaluating potential builders:
Experience and Expertise in 3D Printing Technology
Look for builders with a proven track record in 3D printing technology, specifically in construction.
Experience matters significantly in this field, as it involves a unique set of skills and knowledge.
Builders who have successfully completed similar projects demonstrate their competency and understanding of the intricacies of 3D printing in construction.
You should assess the portfolio of past projects for each builder and client testimonials to get valuable insights into their capabilities.
Customization Options and Flexibility
Every ADU project is unique, with varying requirements and preferences.
A good builder should offer customization options to tailor the design and features of the ADU according to your specific needs and preferences.
The builder must be willing to work closely with you to understand your vision, accommodate any special requests, and provide flexibility throughout the design and construction process.
This includes the ability to integrate sustainable features, adapt to different architectural styles, and incorporate personalized amenities.
Sustainability and Environmental Considerations
With growing emphasis on sustainability and environmental consciousness, consider builders who prioritize eco-friendly practices and materials in their construction processes.
Look for certifications or affiliations with green building organizations, and inquire about their approach to energy efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable building practices.
Choosing a builder committed to minimizing environmental impact aligns with broader sustainability goals and may offer long-term benefits in terms of energy savings and ecological stewardship.
Cost Transparency and Budget Considerations
Transparent pricing and clear communication regarding project costs are essential for avoiding surprises and staying within budget.
A reputable builder should provide detailed estimates, including breakdowns of material costs, labor expenses, and any additional fees or charges.
Be wary of builders who offer significantly lower prices without transparent explanations, as it may indicate compromises in quality or hidden costs.
Remember, it’s crucial to strike a balance between affordability and value, prioritizing quality and reliability over the lowest price.
Conclusion
3D buildings are here to stay. As the climate crisis becomes a very real threat and we look towards Mars as an alternative home planet, looking into 3D AUD builders should be a priority.
So if you wish to save time, money, and resources for a construction project, refer to the aforementioned companies.