KBS Explores: The Evolution of Construction Techniques – 1920s to Today
Construction techniques have undergone significant transformations since the 1920s, largely driven by advances in technology, changes in building codes, and a growing emphasis on safety and efficiency.
In the early 20th century, construction was labor-intensive, safety standards were minimal, and materials like wood and brick dominated the landscape. However, today’s construction industry is a blend of automation, sustainability, and highly regulated safety protocols. Understanding how construction has evolved provides insights into the industry’s progress and what the future holds.
KBS Companies is here to explore several important aspects of this evolution! As Minnesota experts in construction, building materials, and overhead doors, we know a thing or two about how much this industry has changed.
Leave it to our pros to explain how construction techniques have improved in terms of safety and efficiency. We’ll also take a look at the role technology has played in advancing construction methods and compare modern building codes to those from the early 20th century.
We'll even analyze how the materials used in construction have changed over the decades and examine which historical construction techniques are still in use today!
Construction Techniques Have Majorly Evolved in Terms of Safety & Efficiency
The evolution of construction techniques has been influenced by several key factors. Over the years, safety has become a top priority, leading to more efficient methods and regulations designed to protect workers and buildings alike.
Technology, from power tools to robotics and drones, has drastically reshaped how buildings are designed and constructed. Moreover, building codes have undergone numerous revisions, ensuring that modern structures meet rigorous safety and environmental standards.
In the 1920s, safety in construction was often an afterthought, with minimal regulations or protections for workers. The industry relied heavily on manual labor, and accidents were common. As the decades progressed, a series of regulatory changes and advancements in technology improved both safety and efficiency. Today, construction sites are highly regulated environments, where personal protective equipment (PPE), safety inspections, and risk assessments are mandatory.
Efficiency has also seen a dramatic shift. Where construction workers once relied on basic tools like hammers and saws, modern methods incorporate advanced machinery such as hydraulic lifts, cranes, and automated tools, all of which increase speed and reduce the physical strain on workers. Prefabrication, another modern technique, allows for building components to be constructed off-site and assembled on-site, saving both time and money.
The introduction of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and project management software has further improved efficiency by enabling detailed planning and coordination, reducing errors, and enhancing communication between project stakeholders.
These developments in safety and efficiency have made the modern construction industry far more productive and secure compared to earlier eras.
The Role Technology Played in Advancing Construction Methods
Technology has been one of the most significant drivers of change in the construction industry. From the use of heavy machinery in the mid-20th century to today’s reliance on digital tools, the impact of technology on construction cannot be overstated.
The 1920s saw the introduction of mechanized equipment like steam shovels and cranes, which helped reduce the reliance on manual labor. By the 21st century, construction technology had evolved to include cutting-edge tools such as drones, 3D printing, and autonomous vehicles.
One of the most influential innovations in recent decades has been the rise of Building Information Modeling (BIM), a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a building. BIM allows for greater precision in design, leading to fewer errors during construction and better collaboration among architects, engineers, and contractors. Additionally, robotics and automation are now being used to lay bricks, pour concrete, and even complete inspections, drastically improving efficiency.
The integration of smart technology and IoT (Internet of Things) has also transformed construction sites, with sensors that monitor safety conditions, productivity, and resource usage.
These advancements have made construction faster, more reliable, and more adaptable to complex project requirements.
How Modern Building Codes Compare to Those in the Early 20th Century
Building codes have undergone a dramatic transformation since the 1920s. In the early part of the 20th century, there were few standardized building regulations, and the codes that did exist were often localized, leading to inconsistent safety and quality standards. Buildings were largely constructed without considerations for fire resistance, structural integrity during natural disasters, or the health of occupants.
Modern building codes, on the other hand, are far more comprehensive and globally standardized. Today’s codes prioritize safety, energy efficiency, sustainability, and accessibility. For example, fire-resistant materials are mandatory in most buildings, and strict guidelines exist for seismic reinforcement in earthquake-prone areas. Additionally, modern codes ensure buildings are energy-efficient, incorporating standards for insulation, ventilation, and sustainable materials.
Another key development is the focus on accessibility in construction. Modern codes require buildings to be designed for use by people of all abilities, reflecting societal changes and the importance of inclusivity.
These codes are also continuously updated to reflect the latest advancements in technology and safety.
Construction Techniques From the Past Still in Use Today
Despite the many advances in construction, several techniques from the early 20th century are still in use today, albeit in modernized forms. For example, bricklaying, one of the oldest construction techniques, remains a fundamental method for building walls and structures. However, modern bricklaying often incorporates automation and precision tools that increase efficiency and ensure uniformity in construction.
Timber framing is another technique with deep historical roots that continues to be used in modern construction. Although steel and concrete have become the dominant materials for large structures, timber framing is still popular for residential homes due to its flexibility and sustainability. Modern techniques have improved upon traditional methods with better tools and design software that optimize load-bearing and structural integrity.
Foundations, another critical aspect of construction, have evolved but still rely on principles that were developed decades ago. Modern foundation construction builds upon past knowledge but incorporates new materials and techniques to ensure greater strength and durability, especially in challenging environments.
How Construction Materials Changed Over the Decades
Materials used in construction have seen significant changes over the last century. In the 1920s, common materials included wood, brick, and stone, which were readily available and affordable. These materials, while durable, lacked the strength and versatility of modern construction materials. Over time, steel and reinforced concrete became the preferred choices for larger structures due to their superior strength and ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions.
In recent decades, sustainability has become a major focus in material selection. The use of recycled materials, such as reclaimed wood and recycled steel, is increasingly common. Additionally, new materials like engineered wood, carbon fiber, and advanced composites offer superior performance while minimizing environmental impact. These sustainable materials are also energy-efficient, helping buildings maintain temperature control and reducing energy costs.
Insulation materials have also improved dramatically. Where builders once used basic materials like straw or sawdust for insulation, today’s construction incorporates high-tech options like spray foam and rigid insulation panels, which provide better energy efficiency and soundproofing.
KBS Companies Can Help Modernize Your Project!
At KBS, we understand the importance of using the latest construction techniques and materials to deliver high-quality results. Our team has decades of experience, staying up-to-date with the evolution of construction practices to ensure every project is completed with safety, efficiency, and innovation at its core.
Whether you are interested in sustainable materials, modern building codes, or integrating advanced technologies like BIM, we have the expertise to guide your project from start to finish. From foundational techniques like bricklaying and timber framing to cutting-edge technologies like 3D printing and drones, our construction services are built on a blend of time-tested methods and modern advancements.
KBS is proud to serve the Rochester, MN community, bringing a family-owned touch to each project, while delivering the competitive pricing and quality that our customers expect. To learn more about how we can help with your next construction project, contact us online or call (651) 555-1234.