Giant printers are printing homes one layer at a time across the country. While they’re not the norm yet, it could be the way of the future. Now you might be thinking “this will never work in a colder climate” but one was built here in Maine in 2022! The University of Maine built a 600 square foot home with bio-resins. “The house is fully recyclable and highly insulated with 100% wood insulation and customizable R-values. Construction waste was nearly eliminated due to the precision of the printing process.” (UMaine)
What exactly is an R-value? It measures how heat is maintained inside a home. The more insulated, the higher the R-value. This then translates into heating and cooling savings!
This new way of home building provides an opportunity to increase affordable housing, while also cutting down on construction waste. On the topic of UMaine’s 3D-built home, Senator Susan Collins is quoted saying, “Their groundbreaking work will lay the foundation for the future of affordable housing and help create new jobs across our state.”
Who would benefit most from affordable housing? The National Low Income Housing Coalition shows us that seniors make up the biggest demographic in need of affordable housing in Maine. However, the other demographics aren’t far behind. With affordable housing shortages across the country, this may be the way to satisfy our housing needs. While not on a grand scale just yet, technological enhancements could be leading us in that direction.
Affordable housing and achieving financial independence through Real Estate is our passion. If you or someone you know is in need of rental assistance, check out the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority website (www.nhhfa.org) or Maine State Housing Authority website (www.mainehousing.org/).
As always, we are here to talk about how we can help you secure permanent housing while building generational wealth through Real Estate.