The Facts
Texas construction startup ICON is set to complete building what's reported to be the world's largest 3D-printed housing community this summer in Georgetown.
The Wolf Ranch community, built by Dallas-based Hillwood Communities, has 100 homes printed by 46-foot wide robotic printers using Lavacrete, a concrete material.
The Spin
Narrative A
3D-printed homes are revolutionizing construction, solving labor shortages, making more sustainable products, using less energy, and producing less waste. They allow for easy customization as 3D printing enables complex shapes and innovative designs. It can also potentially create stronger structures with less — and even recycled — material. 3D-printed homes are the way forward.
Narrative B
3D-printed homes remain more of a novelty than a viable housing solution. The nascent technology has raised durability, safety, and long-term performance concerns. It can't yet replicate the complexity of traditional home building, which involves multiple materials and techniques. In any case, many "3D-printed" buildings still require significant conventional construction work.